Stick of Butter Rice is one of those timeless, comforting side dishes that never fails to impress. With its rich, buttery flavor, tender texture, and golden-baked perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples to create something extraordinary.
This dish stands out not only because of its simplicity but also due to its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables. If you’re looking for a warm, cozy, and flavorful rice dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, Stick of Butter Rice is your answer.
Why Stick of Butter Rice Is So Popular
So, why has Stick of Butter Rice gained such a dedicated fanbase? Here’s what makes it special:
- Unmatched Flavor: The butter melts into the rice, creating a rich, savory taste with a hint of nutty goodness.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect even for busy weeknights.
- Affordable: Stick of Butter Rice is budget-friendly and uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Comforting Texture: It’s the perfect balance of fluffy, tender rice with a lightly crisp, golden top layer.
- Versatility: This rice pairs well with countless main courses, from grilled meats to roasted veggies.
These factors combined make Stick of Butter Rice a go-to recipe for anyone who loves simple yet flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients Needed for Stick of Butter Rice
The beauty of Stick of Butter Rice lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients to achieve its incredible flavor and texture:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed beef consommé
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Sliced mushrooms for a more earthy flavor
- Slivered almonds for a bit of crunch
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for freshness
These simple ingredients come together to create a side dish that’s bursting with flavor and warmth.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Stick of Butter Rice
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps for perfect Stick of Butter Rice every time.
Preparing the Ingredients
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from getting gummy.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish lightly.
- Cut the Butter: Slice the butter into small cubes for even melting.
Cooking Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In the greased baking dish, mix the rice, beef consommé, and French onion soup. Stir well to distribute evenly.
- Add Butter: Place the butter cubes evenly across the surface of the rice mixture.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the rice sit for about 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Rice
- Use Quality Rice: Long-grain rice works best for that light, fluffy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Consommé: It gives the dish its rich, deep flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds on top just before serving.
- Boost the Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add extra savory depth.
Nutritional Information of Stick of Butter Rice
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming six servings):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 34g |
Protein | 4g |
Sodium | 800mg |
While it’s undeniably indulgent, this dish is perfect for special occasions or when you crave a cozy, comforting side.
Delicious Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about Stick of Butter Rice is its adaptability. With a few tweaks, you can create new versions of this dish that cater to different tastes and occasions. Let’s explore some variations:
Mushroom Butter Rice
Add ½ cup of sliced mushrooms to the rice mixture before baking. They’ll soak up the rich flavors and add an earthy depth to the dish. For an extra boost, sauté the mushrooms in a bit of butter before adding them.
Garlic Butter Rice
Love garlic? Mince 2-3 cloves and sauté them in butter before mixing them into the rice. You’ll get a wonderful aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory rice.
Cheesy Butter Rice
Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese before baking. Once baked, sprinkle an extra handful on top and broil for a couple of minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Spicy Butter Rice
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. Spicy Stick of Butter Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and roasted veggies.
These variations add a fun twist to the classic dish while keeping that comforting, buttery goodness intact.
Best Dishes to Serve with Butter Rice
Stick of Butter Rice is a versatile side that pairs well with a wide range of main courses. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a festive feast, here are some perfect pairings:
- Grilled Chicken: The savory, rich rice complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken perfectly.
- Roast Beef: Pairing Stick of Butter Rice with roast beef creates a comforting, hearty meal.
- Baked Salmon: The buttery texture of the rice balances the light, flaky fish beautifully.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: For a meatless option, serve it alongside a colorful vegetable stir-fry.
- Meatloaf: The classic comfort of meatloaf combined with Stick of Butter Rice makes for a cozy, nostalgic meal.
No matter what you pair it with, this rice dish will always elevate your meal with its rich flavor and satisfying texture.
How to Store and Reheat Stick of Butter Rice
Got leftovers? Stick of Butter Rice stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful:
Storing Butter Rice
- Refrigeration: Let the rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Butter Rice
- Microwave: Add a splash of broth or water to the rice and microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
- Oven: Cover the rice with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, adding a little broth if needed to keep it moist.
- Stovetop: Warm the rice in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Properly stored and reheated, your Stick of Butter Rice will taste just as delicious as when it was first made.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes have their pitfalls! Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Stick of Butter Rice:
- Using the Wrong Rice: Short-grain rice can turn mushy—stick with long-grain varieties for the best texture.
- Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing the rice can lead to a sticky, gummy dish. Take a minute to rinse off that excess starch.
- Not Covering the Dish: Covering the dish during the first part of baking helps the rice cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
- Overbaking: Leaving the rice in the oven too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the top is golden brown.
- Forgetting to Rest: Letting the rice rest for a few minutes after baking helps the texture set and makes fluffing easier.
Avoid these missteps, and you’ll get perfect Stick of Butter Rice every time.
Expert Tips for Enhancing Flavor
Want to take your Stick of Butter Rice to the next level? Try these expert tips:
- Toast the Rice: Before baking, toast the rice in a dry skillet until lightly golden. This adds a nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary after baking for a burst of freshness.
- Finish with a Squeeze of Lemon: A little acidity brightens the rich flavors, balancing the dish perfectly.
- Mix in Caramelized Onions: If you love deep, sweet flavors, add caramelized onions for an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan: A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese before serving adds a savory, umami-packed finish.
These small touches can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Stick of Butter Rice in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the rice is tender.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef consommé?
Absolutely. Chicken broth will give a lighter flavor, but it works just as well.
How can I keep the rice from getting too dry?
Make sure to cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking, and don’t overbake. Adding a splash of extra broth can also help.
Can I prepare Stick of Butter Rice ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
What’s the best rice to use for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best for a light, fluffy texture.
Print
Stick of Butter Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Stick of Butter Rice is the perfect side dish — rich, buttery, and incredibly easy to make! With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday meals. Save this comforting recipe today!
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed beef consommé
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Sliced mushrooms for a more earthy flavor
- Slivered almonds for a bit of crunch
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for freshness
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from getting gummy.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish lightly.
- Cut the Butter: Slice the butter into small cubes for even melting.
Cooking Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In the greased baking dish, mix the rice, beef consommé, and French onion soup. Stir well to distribute evenly.
- Add Butter: Place the butter cubes evenly across the surface of the rice mixture.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the rice sit for about 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Rice
- Use Quality Rice: Long-grain rice works best for that light, fluffy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Consommé: It gives the dish its rich, deep flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds on top just before serving.
- Boost the Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add extra savory depth.
Notes
Use Quality Rice: Long-grain rice works best for light, fluffy texture.
Add Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for extra texture.
Boost Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory profile.
Avoid Overbaking: Take the rice out once the top is golden brown to prevent drying out.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes