If you love the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup, you’re going to fall in love with this French Onion Soup Rice! It takes everything we adore about the classic soup—caramelized onions, beefy broth, and gooey cheese—and transforms it into an easy, comforting rice dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.
This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and made with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a side for steak, chicken, or enjoying it on its own, this dish delivers deep, umami-packed flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!
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Why You’ll Want to Make This Again and Again
This French Onion Soup Rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a bowl of pure comfort! The deeply caramelized onions, savory broth, and melty cheese create a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms simple pantry staples into something rich, cozy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy steak or just enjoying a bowl on its own, this rice will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, with its one-pot simplicity, cleanup is a breeze—so you can enjoy more and stress less!
A New Family Favorite
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. You can make it heartier by adding cooked chicken or ground beef, or lighten it up with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It’s also an excellent choice for holiday meals, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners. The flavors get even better as they sit, so leftovers taste just as delicious the next day. Whether you’re an onion lover, cheese fanatic, or just looking for a unique new side dish, this French Onion Soup Rice is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup Rice
- All the flavors of French onion soup, but in rice form!
- One-pot recipe—easy to make and clean up.
- Deep, savory flavors with minimal effort.
- Pairs well with almost any protein or works as a main dish!
- Made with pantry-friendly ingredients.
What Does French Onion Soup Rice Taste Like?
This dish is rich, buttery, and packed with umami flavor from the caramelized onions and beef broth. The rice soaks up all the deliciousness, while the melted cheese on top adds a creamy, indulgent finish. If you love French onion soup, this rice will become an instant favorite!
Ingredients for French Onion Soup Rice
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (for topping)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or crispy fried onions
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Want extra depth of flavor? Use a mix of caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms.
- Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.
- No Gruyère cheese? Use mozzarella, provolone, or even Parmesan.
- Want a creamy version? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or saucepan with a lid
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Sharp knife for slicing onions
How to Make French Onion Soup Rice
1. Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
2. Add Garlic & Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the onion mixture. Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
4. Add Cheese & Serve
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or crispy fried onions, and serve warm!
What to Serve with French Onion Soup Rice
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steak or grilled chicken – A perfect, savory side.
- Roasted vegetables – Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans complement it well.
- Baked salmon – The rich, buttery rice pairs beautifully with seafood.
- A simple side salad – Something fresh to balance the richness.
Tips for the Best French Onion Soup Rice
- Caramelizing the onions properly is key to the best flavor—don’t rush this step!
- For extra cheesy goodness, stir some cheese into the rice before topping.
- If your rice is too dry, add a splash of broth before serving.
- For a crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after adding the cheese.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or water, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just increase the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes, adding extra broth if needed.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes! Caramelize the onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a rice cooker and cook as usual.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Absolutely! Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, or sliced sausage for a heartier dish.
Try This French Onion Soup Rice Today!
If you’re looking for a rich, comforting side dish that’s bursting with flavor, this French Onion Soup Rice is a must-try! It’s easy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious—perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or anytime you want something extra cozy.
If you make this recipe, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest so you can make it again. Happy cooking! 🍚🧅🧀💛