Description
This French Onion Soup Rice recipe is a hearty fusion of classic French onion soup flavors transformed into a comforting rice dish. With caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese, this dish offers all the warmth and savoriness of French onion soup but with the satisfying texture of creamy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy family meals, this dish is both indulgent and easy to prepare. The caramelized onions and melted cheese create an irresistible flavor, while the rice soaks up all the savory goodness, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large yellow onions 🧅: Thinly sliced for caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒: For sautéing the onions.
- 1 cup Arborio rice 🍚: For a risotto-like creamy texture. Substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for a fluffier version.
- 3 cups beef broth 🥣: Adds rich flavor similar to French onion soup.
- 2 cloves garlic 🧄: Minced to enhance the depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup white wine 🍷 (optional): Adds tangy richness and helps deglaze the pan.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 🧈: Adds richness and creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿: Enhances the dish’s earthy, herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂: To balance and enhance the flavors.
- 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese 🧀: Grated for a melty, savory topping. Substitute Swiss cheese if desired.
- Chopped parsley 🌿: For garnish and added freshness.
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀: For an extra cheesy touch.
- Sautéed mushrooms 🍄: Adds an earthy, umami flavor.
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions 🧅: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized. This slow cooking process is key to bringing out the natural sweetness of the onions. Be patient; it’s worth the wait!
- Add Garlic and Rice 🍚: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, add the Arborio rice and stir to coat the grains in the onion and garlic mixture, allowing the rice to toast lightly for about 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze with White Wine 🍷: Pour in the white wine, if using, and cook until it mostly evaporates. This step will deglaze the pan, picking up all those delicious caramelized bits and incorporating them into the rice for extra flavor.
- Gradually Add Beef Broth 🥣: Slowly add the beef broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the rice to absorb the broth before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, about 18-20 minutes.
- Season and Add Cheese 🧀: Stir in the butter, thyme, and season the rice with salt and pepper to taste. Once fully incorporated, mix in half of the Gruyère cheese, letting it melt into the rice for a creamy finish.
- Broil and Serve 🔥: Transfer the rice mixture to an oven-safe dish or individual bowls. Top with the remaining Gruyère cheese and broil on high for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use white wine, simply omit it or substitute it with an equal amount of broth or water.
- Cheese Variations: Gruyère is the traditional choice for French onion soup, but Swiss, Comté, or even mozzarella can work if you prefer a different cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace beef broth with vegetable broth, and the dish will still be rich and flavorful.
- Make It Ahead: You can caramelize the onions up to 3 days in advance and store them in the fridge. This saves time when preparing the rice on busy days.
- Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food, Rice Dish
- Cuisine: French, Fusion, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 6g (mostly from caramelized onions)
- Sodium: 900mg (varies based on broth)
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Keywords: French Onion Soup Rice 🍲: A Savory Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish