The Best French Onion Soup Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Comfort Dish

French onion soup rice is a delicious twist on classic French onion soup, combining the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions with fluffy, seasoned rice. This dish is perfect as a comforting side or even a standalone meal. Whether you’re using brown rice or white rice, this recipe brings out deep umami flavors, making it a must-try for food lovers.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making French onion soup rice, including how to cook brown rice with French onion soup, the best ingredients, and step-by-step instructions.

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What is French Onion Soup Rice?

French onion soup rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that blends the essence of French onion soup with perfectly cooked rice. The dish typically includes caramelized onions, beef broth, butter, and cheese for a rich and hearty taste.

It’s an easy-to-make recipe that pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a filling meal on its own.

Ingredients for French Onion Soup Rice

Essential Ingredients

To make the perfect French onion soup rice, you’ll need:

• Rice (white or brown)
• French onion soup mix (or homemade)
• Beef broth or chicken broth
• Butter or olive oil
• Onions (yellow or white)
• Shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella)
• Garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Best Rice to Use

• White Rice: Cooks faster and absorbs the flavors well.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty texture and is more nutritious.

How to Make French Onion Soup Rice

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a pan, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook slowly for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions turn golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
2. In a pot, add the rice, French onion soup mix, and broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
4. Cook according to rice type:
   • White Rice: 15-18 minutes
   • Brown Rice: 40-45 minutes
5. Once cooked, let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

1. Stir the caramelized onions into the cooked rice.
2. Add shredded cheese and mix until melted.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Make Brown Rice with French Onion Soup

Brown rice takes longer to cook but offers a nutty, chewy texture that pairs well with the savory broth and onions.

Steps for Cooking Brown Rice with French Onion Soup

1. Rinse brown rice under cold water.
2. In a large pot, bring 2 ½ cups of broth to a boil.
3. Stir in 1 cup of brown rice and French onion soup mix.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes.
5. Fluff with a fork and mix in caramelized onions and cheese.

Tips for the Best French Onion Soup Rice

Use quality broth – Homemade or store-bought beef broth adds depth of flavor.
Don’t rush the onions – Slow caramelization is key to the rich, sweet taste.
Experiment with cheeses – Gruyère is traditional, but mozzarella or Parmesan work great too.
Add mushrooms or beef – Enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms or shredded beef for extra heartiness.

Variations of French Onion Soup Rice

French onion soup rice is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Protein-Packed Main Course

Turn this dish into a hearty main course by adding shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or beef. These additions boost the protein content and make it a filling meal.

2. Crispy Onion Topping

For extra crunch and flavor, top your rice with crispy fried onions before serving. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy, cheesy rice.

3. Seafood Twist

Enhance the dish by adding cooked shrimp or scallops. The seafood pairs beautifully with the rich onion flavor, creating a gourmet-style meal.

4. Veggie-Packed Version

Make it a vegetarian-friendly meal by adding sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach. These ingredients bring extra nutrients and a delicious earthy taste.

5. Spicy Kick

If you love heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the rice. This gives the dish a bold, spicy twist that complements the savory flavors.

Experiment with these variations and customize your French onion soup rice to match your cravings!

FAQs

How to cook brown rice with French onion soup?

To cook brown rice with French onion soup, simmer 1 cup of brown rice in 2 ½ cups of beef broth with French onion soup mix. Cook on low for 40-45 minutes, then fluff and serve with caramelized onions and cheese.

How to make brown rice with French onion soup?

Make brown rice with French onion soup by cooking it in a mixture of beef broth and onion soup mix. Add caramelized onions for extra depth, and finish with melted cheese.

How to make rice with French onion soup?

Simply cook rice in French onion soup broth instead of water. For more flavor, add butter, caramelized onions, and cheese before serving.

Can I make French onion soup rice in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! You can prepare French onion soup rice in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the “rice” setting or pressure cook on high for 10 minutes, followed by a natural release.

What cheese works best for French onion soup rice?

The best cheese for this dish is Gruyère, as it melts beautifully and adds a rich, nutty flavor. Other great options include Swiss, mozzarella, or Parmesan.

Can I use a different soup mix instead of French onion soup?

Yes! If you don’t have French onion soup mix, you can substitute it with onion powder, beef bouillon, and dried minced onions for a similar taste. Mushroom or vegetable broth-based soup mixes can also work.

Conclusion

French onion soup rice is an easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that elevates a simple side into something special. Whether you’re using brown or white rice, this recipe captures the rich flavors of French onion soup in a satisfying, cheesy, and delicious way.

Try this recipe today and bring the taste of classic French onion soup to your dinner table!