Oven Cooked Rice
Creamy oven-cooked rice with butter and salt offers a simple, comforting side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, with fluffy texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the washed and drained rice, hot water, salt, and butter in a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider rinsing your rice before cooking to remove excess starch. If you want a richer taste, substitute the butter with olive oil or a flavored oil. You can also add herbs like thyme or bay leaves to elevate the dish. Ensure your casserole dish is tightly covered to prevent steam from escaping, which is crucial for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This oven-cooked rice serves as a fantastic base for various dishes. Pair it with a stir-fry or grilled vegetables for a hearty meal. It also complements savory dishes like chicken or fish, and can be served alongside recipes like Savory Hot Butter Sauce for an extra flavor boost. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the rice to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water and cover to steam the rice, ensuring it remains fluffy and moist. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Cooked Rice contains roughly 1564 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 151g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1015mg per serving (44% 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 brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires about 2 hours in the oven at the same temperature, and you may need to add a bit more water because it absorbs moisture differently.
What if I don't have a casserole dish?
If you don't have a casserole dish, you can use any oven-safe pot with a lid. Just make sure it's tightly covered to retain steam during cooking. Alternatively, you can cover a baking dish with aluminum foil to achieve similar results.
Can I add vegetables or protein to the rice while cooking?
Absolutely! You can mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers, or add cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp before baking. Just be mindful of the extra moisture from the ingredients, which may require slight adjustments to the water ratio.
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).