Rice With Or Without Meat
Hearty rice dish with a buttery, savory base, accented by onion soup mix—simple, comforting, and perfect for a quick family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a baking dish, combine 1 1/2 cups converted rice, 3 cups water, 1 stick butter, and 1 packet onion soup mix; stir to mix.
- Add leftover meat if desired.
- Cover the dish and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven, fluff the rice, and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of water. If you don't have onion soup mix, a blend of sautéed onions, garlic powder, and dried herbs can serve as a great substitute. Experiment with different types of rice for varied textures, and don't hesitate to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition. This dish can also be transformed into a vegetarian recipe by omitting the meat and adding mushrooms for a hearty touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting rice dish alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a hearty protein like grilled chicken or baked fish. For a complete dinner experience, consider serving it with a slice of Quick Tennessee Chess Pie for dessert, bringing a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave covered for about 2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice With Or Without Meat contains roughly 596 calories, with 10g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1418mg per serving (62% 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 converted rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio since brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time. It may take about 1.5 to 2 hours to cook properly.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery can enhance the dish's flavor. You can also mix in some herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays. Just portion it out into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
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).