Buttery Onion Rice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your meals with this delicious Buttery Onion Rice recipe! Infused with rich, caramelized onions and a touch of buttery goodness, this side dish is the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, and main courses. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, it transforms simple rice into a comforting and satisfying experience.

Ruby Lawson

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-13T03:09:06.558Z

This Buttery Onion Rice recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. Its rich flavor profile is created by the slow caramelization of onions, which adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. It’s perfect for serving alongside your favorite entrees.

A Versatile Side Dish

Buttery Onion Rice is a fantastic side dish that elevates any meal. The combination of caramelized onions and buttery rice creates a unique flavor profile that complements various main courses. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled chicken, hearty stews, or roasted vegetables, this dish enhances the overall dining experience. It's not just a filler; it brings its own delicious character to the table.

This rice dish also suits an array of occasions, from casual family dinners to formal gatherings. Its simple elegance and comforting nature make it a favorite in many households. Plus, it can be prepared in a snap, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying side.

Tips for Perfectly Caramelized Onions

Caramelizing onions is an art that requires patience but yields delightful results. Start by slicing the onions evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. A wide skillet over medium heat allows for optimal caramelization, as it promotes even cooking and browning. Don’t rush the process; give the onions time to develop their natural sweetness. Stir occasionally, allowing them to stick slightly to the pan, which enhances the flavor before you deglaze with a bit of broth if needed.

Another pro tip is to use a mix of yellow and sweet onions. This combination provides a well-rounded flavor, marrying the savory notes of yellow onions with the sweetness of their counterparts. Just remember to season them lightly while cooking, as this enhances the overall taste of the finished rice.

Storage and Reheating

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Buttery Onion Rice!

Prepare the Onions

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.

Cook the Rice

While the onions are cooking, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and reduce heat to low.

Cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a side dish.

Enjoy your Buttery Onion Rice!

Pairing Suggestions

This Buttery Onion Rice pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Consider serving it alongside a creamy mushroom soup or a hearty beef stew for a comforting meal. The rich flavors of the rice will enhance the broth without overpowering it. Additionally, it can be an excellent side for grilled salmon or roasted chicken, contributing a textural contrast that balances the meal perfectly.

Vegetarians can enjoy this dish with a variety of options as well. Pair it with a robust vegetable stir-fry or a Mediterranean salad filled with fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese. The buttery rice serves as a perfect base that elevates the meal and adds a satisfying element to your plate.

Nutrition Facts

Buttery Onion Rice, while rich in flavor, can also be a nutritious addition to your meals. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and fueling your body throughout the day. The addition of onions adds vitamins and minerals, specifically vitamin C and B vitamins, which are essential for maintaining overall health.

By using broth instead of water, you can infuse even more nutrients into the dish. Broths often come packed with beneficial herbs and spices, contributing to overall flavor and health benefits. For an added nutritional boost, consider incorporating some diced vegetables, which can enhance the health profile of this already delicious side dish.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Follow package instructions for brown rice.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Buttery Onion Rice

Elevate your meals with this delicious Buttery Onion Rice recipe! Infused with rich, caramelized onions and a touch of buttery goodness, this side dish is the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, and main courses. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, it transforms simple rice into a comforting and satisfying experience.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Ruby Lawson

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup long-grain rice
  2. 2 cups water or broth
  3. 2 tablespoons butter
  4. 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  5. Salt to taste
  6. Pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 02

While the onions are cooking, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 03

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a side dish.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 6g