Easy Baked Rice
A quick and comforting baked rice dish with savory onion flavor, mushrooms, and buttery richness, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the minute rice, dry onion soup mix, cold water, and mushrooms in an 8 x 8-inch baking pan.
- Cut 3/4 stick of butter over the top of the mixture.
- Cover the pan and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Stir the mixture and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider substituting the minute rice with a long-grain rice or brown rice, adjusting the water accordingly. You can also add extra vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before baking. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Orange Roughy Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This easy baked rice makes a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, stir in cooked chicken or sausage before baking. It also pairs nicely with dishes like Tropical Soup for a delicious combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it with a damp paper towel before microwaving to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in a covered pan on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Baked Rice contains roughly 668 calories, with 15g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1292mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, but be sure to adjust the water and cooking time accordingly. For example, brown rice will require more water and a longer baking time. Just ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender before serving.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients in the baking pan and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this baked rice is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, make sure the dry onion soup mix you use is also vegetarian. You can enhance its flavor by adding extra vegetables or using vegetable broth instead of water.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).