I’ve always loved the rich, comforting flavors of French onion soup, but sometimes I crave something a little different—something that still has all that deep onion and savory goodness but in a new form. That’s how I came up with this recipe for French Onion Soup Rice. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the classic soup’s flavors in a heartier, more filling dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
You’ll love this recipe because it brings together the caramelized sweetness of onions with tender rice, all coated in a flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
The beauty of this recipe is how easily it can be adapted. Whether you want to add extra veggies, sprinkle some cheese on top, or serve it with a fresh side salad, it works perfectly every time. It’s an affordable comfort meal that doesn’t require expensive or hard-to-find ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
-
Onions (preferably yellow or sweet onions)
-
Garlic cloves
-
Beef broth (a rich alternative to traditional pork broth)
-
Butter or olive oil
-
Long-grain white rice
-
Fresh thyme
-
Bay leaves
-
Turkey bacon (to add a smoky depth without pork)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing French Onion Soup Rice is a straightforward process that combines caramelizing onions with cooking rice in a rich, savory broth. This step-by-step guide will help you create a comforting and delicious dish quickly and easily.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by finely slicing 3 to 4 large yellow onions. Mince 3 garlic cloves, and chop 4 slices of turkey bacon into small pieces. Measure 1 ½ cups of long-grain white rice and have 4 cups of beef broth ready. Gather fresh thyme sprigs and 2 bay leaves.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for about 30 to 40 minutes. The onions will soften and turn a deep golden brown. This slow caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and forms the foundation of the dish’s flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon
While the onions are caramelizing, cook the turkey bacon pieces in a separate pan until crispy. Set them aside once done.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast lightly for 2 minutes. This step enhances the rice’s flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs
Pour in the beef broth along with fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Stir in the cooked turkey bacon pieces. Adjust seasoning if needed.
This recipe is quick and easy because most of the effort is in the caramelization step, which can be done while prepping other ingredients. The rest comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weekday meal or a cozy weekend treat.
What makes this dish even better is its customizability. You can add sautéed mushrooms, shredded chicken ham, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top to suit your tastes. French Onion Soup Rice has become popular with many people who enjoy classic flavors with a comforting twist.
Try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This recipe’s versatility means it works well as both a hearty main dish or a delicious side that elevates any dinner.
PrintThe Best Recipe for French Onion Soup Rice
French Onion Soup Rice combines the rich, caramelized flavor of traditional French onion soup with tender, fluffy rice. This comforting dish is perfect for those who love savory meals that are both easy to make and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the onions thinly and mince the garlic.
- Cook turkey bacon in a pan until crispy; set aside.
- In a large pan, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until caramelized (about 30-40 minutes).
- Add minced garlic to onions; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in rice, allowing it to toast lightly for 2 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth, add thyme sprigs and bay leaves, season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
- Stir in cooked turkey bacon. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
Toasting the rice before adding broth helps improve texture.
Slow caramelization of onions is essential for depth of flavor.
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables or substituting proteins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth amount and simmer time accordingly.
Is turkey bacon necessary?
Turkey bacon adds a smoky flavor and texture, but you can omit it or replace it with chicken ham for a milder taste. The dish will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the turkey bacon. You can also add mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the French Onion Soup Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freezing is possible. Freeze in portions, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Texture may change slightly but flavor remains great.