Stick of Butter Rice Recipe

Craving a simple yet indulgent side dish that elevates any meal? This stick of butter rice recipe is your answer! With its rich, buttery flavor and effortless preparation, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday feasts. Requiring just a handful of pantry staples, it’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re pairing it with roasted chicken or serving it as a standalone comfort food, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Plus, it’s certainly gluten-free, making it an exquisite alternative for people with nutritional restrictions. My family has been making this recipe for years, and it’s become a staple at our table, especially when we need a no-fuss dish that feels like a warm hug. Let’s dive into how to make this savory, golden rice dish that’s sure to become your go-to!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious stick of butter rice. The ingredients are listed in order of use for clarity:

• 1 stick of butter (8 tbsp, unsalted preferred; salted works, just adjust seasoning)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice for a fragrant twist)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup (or beef broth for a lighter flavor)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consommé (or substitute with beef broth)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra savory depth)
• Salt & pepper to taste (optional, depending on soup mix used)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Stick of Butter Rice?

This recipe is as easy as it gets—perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof, flavorful result:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Melt the butter: In a 9×9-inch baking dish (or similar size), place the stick of butter and let it melt in the preheating oven for about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
3. Add the rice: Remove the dish from the oven and stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, coating it evenly with the melted butter.
4. Combine the liquids: Pour in the French onion soup and beef consommé (or broth substitutes) over the rice. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper if desired, and stir gently to combine.
5. Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil (see “Do You Cover Butter Rice When Baking?” for details) and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
6. Check and fluff: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and check if the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If needed, bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with parsley earlier than serving.

What Rice Is Best for Stick of Butter Rice?

Choosing the right rice is key to achieving the perfect texture. Long-grain white rice is the top choice for this recipe because it stays fluffy and separate after baking. Varieties like jasmine or basmati work well, too, adding a subtle fragrance that complements the buttery flavor. If you prefer a nuttier texture, brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer cooking time (about 45-50 minutes) and slightly more liquid (add an extra 1/4 cup of broth). Avoid short-grain or sticky rice varieties, as they can become too gummy for this dish. For the best results, rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure a light, fluffy texture.

Can You Use Instant Rice for Butter Rice?

While instant rice is a time-saver, it’s not ideal for this stick of butter rice recipe. Instant rice cooks much faster than traditional rice, which can lead to a mushy texture when baked with the standard liquid ratios and cooking time. If you must use instant rice, reduce the liquid (use about 1.5 cups total of soup or broth) and cut the baking time to 15-20 minutes.  Check for doneness early to keep away from overcooking. For the best flavor and texture, stick with long-grain white rice or adjust carefully if using instant rice.

Do You Cover Butter Rice When Baking?

Yes, covering the baking dish is essential for this recipe. Tightly sealing the dish with aluminum foil traps steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly and absorb the liquid properly. Without a cover, the rice may dry out or cook unevenly. Ensure the foil is snug to prevent steam from escaping. After the initial 30-minute bake, you can uncover the dish for the last 5-10 minutes if you prefer a slightly crisp top layer.

Can You Add Onion Soup Mix to Butter Rice?

Absolutely! Adding a packet of onion soup mix is a popular variation that enhances the savory, umami flavor of this dish. If using onion soup mix, replace the French onion soup with 1.5 cups of beef broth or water and stir in one packet (about 1 oz) of dry onion soup mix. This adds a bold, caramelized onion flavor without overpowering the buttery richness. Be cautious with additional salt, as onion soup mix is already salty. For a homemade touch, you can sauté fresh onions and add them to the rice before baking for a similar effect.

How Long to Bake Stick of Butter Rice?

The standard baking time for stick of butter rice is 30 minutes at 425°F (220°C) when covered with foil. If you’re using brown rice or a larger batch, extend the baking time to 45-50 minutes and check for doneness. The rice is ready when it’s tender and has absorbed all the liquid. If the rice is still firm after 30 minutes, add a splash of broth or water, re-cover, and bake for 5-10 minutes. Always fluff the rice with a fork after baking to ensure a light, airy texture.

What to Serve with a Stick of Butter Rice?

This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains and complements many flavors. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside a stick of butter rice:

• Roasted or Grilled Meats: Pair with roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled steak for a hearty meal. The buttery rice soaks up meat juices beautifully.
• Seafood: Serve with baked salmon or shrimp scampi for a lighter yet flavorful combination.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a fresh, colorful contrast.
• Casseroles: This rice is a great side for creamy casseroles like green bean casserole or cheesy broccoli bake.
• Salads: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the buttery rice.
  For a complete meal, try serving it with a protein, a vegetable, and a simple salad for a well-rounded, comforting dinner.

Can You Freeze Baked Butter Rice?

Yes, stick of butter rice freezes well, making it a great make-ahead dish! To freeze, let the rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Freezing is a great option for meal prep or saving leftovers!

Is Stick of Butter Rice the Same as No Peek Rice?

The terms stick of butter rice and no peek rice are often used interchangeably, but they’re not always identical. Both recipes involve baking rice with a stick of butter and broth or soup mix, and both are covered during cooking (hence “no peek” to avoid lifting the foil). However, no peek rice often specifically includes a packet of onion soup mix for a distinct flavor, while stick of butter rice can be made with or without it, relying on French onion soup or broth. The core method and rich, buttery result are similar, but check the ingredients to confirm the flavor profile.

Can You Make Butter Rice Without Soup Mix?

Yes, you can make stick of butter rice without soup mix! Replace the French onion soup or onion soup mix with 2 cups of beef or chicken broth for a cleaner, less salty flavor. To maintain depth, add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs (thyme or parsley work well). For a richer taste, sauté diced onions or garlic in the butter before adding the rice and broth. This version is just as delicious and offers more control over the sodium content.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Cup)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 18g

Final Thoughts

This stick of butter rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food side dish—rich, savory, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday spread, it’s sure to impress with its golden, fluffy texture and irresistible flavor. Try it out and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

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