Effortless Oven-Baked Basmati Rice Risotto: The Ultimate “Stick of Butter Rice” Side Dish
Discover the magic of Basmati Rice Risotto, an incredibly delicious and remarkably easy side dish that effortlessly elevates any meal. Often affectionately known as “Stick of Butter Rice” or “Rice Consommé,” this recipe has become a cherished staple in my family since my sister first discovered it on a bag of Basmati rice. Its simple preparation belies a depth of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds, making it a perfect addition to weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike.
What truly sets this Basmati rice dish apart is its “dump-and-bake” convenience. Forget standing over the cooktop, stirring tirelessly like traditional risotto demands. This recipe liberates you, allowing the oven to do all the heavy lifting. The result is a flavorful, aromatic, and perfectly cooked rice that’s rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a testament to how a handful of simple ingredients, combined with a no-fuss baking method, can produce a side dish so full of character.
Essential Ingredients for Our Flavorful Rice Dish
The beauty of this Basmati Rice Risotto lies in its simplicity. You’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor you can achieve with such a modest list of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the rich, savory profile that makes this “Stick of Butter Rice” so irresistible. Gather these items, and you’re well on your way to a truly memorable side.
Basmati Rice – This long-grain aromatic rice is the star of our dish. Basmati is celebrated for its distinctive fragrance, often described as similar to pandan. When cooked, it delivers a light, fluffy texture with individual grains that remain separate, making it perfect for soaking up all the delicious liquids and flavors in this “risotto.” Its delicate nature prevents it from becoming gummy, ensuring a pleasant mouthfeel.
Beef Consommé – More than just a simple beef broth, beef consommé is a clarified, intensely flavored broth that brings a profound, rich, and savory umami note to the rice. It’s a concentrated burst of beefy goodness that forms the backbone of the dish’s flavor, providing a depth that cannot be achieved with ordinary broth. This ingredient is key to its unique taste.
French Onion Soup – This canned soup is a secret weapon in this recipe. It’s packed with slow-cooked onion flavor, adding a savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic complexity without the need for chopping and caramelizing fresh onions yourself. It truly acts as a powerful flavor booster, infusing the Basmati rice with an irresistible, comforting taste that complements the beef consommé beautifully.
Sliced Mushrooms – Whether fresh or canned (drained), mushrooms contribute an earthy, savory element and a wonderful textural contrast to the soft rice. They are like little sponges, readily absorbing the rich liquids and becoming incredibly flavorful as they bake. They add another layer of umami that rounds out the dish perfectly.
Butter – This is where the “Stick of Butter Rice” name comes from! A whole stick of butter might seem indulgent, but it’s the secret to the dish’s luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth richness and creamy consistency. As it melts and infuses into the rice during baking, it coats each grain, contributing to that satisfying, almost risotto-like texture and incredible flavor. We always use real butter for the best results, though margarine is an option (see tips below).
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – This is the ideal finishing touch. Sprinkled generously over the warm, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and cheesy punch that ties all the flavors together. Its sharp notes cut through the richness of the butter and broths, providing a delightful contrast and an extra layer of savory perfection.
How to Master Basmati Rice Risotto (The “Stick of Butter Rice” Method)
Preparing this Basmati Rice Risotto is incredibly straightforward, a true testament to its “dump-and-bake” nature. There’s no complex sautéing or constant stirring involved. Just a few simple steps stand between you and a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful side dish.
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats up, take your 2 1/2-quart casserole dish – or a similar oven-safe dish with a lid – and place the entire stick of butter directly into it. Put the dish in the preheating oven for a few minutes to allow the butter to melt completely. This not only melts the butter but also warms the dish, preparing it for the ingredients.
- Step 2: Combine the Ingredients. Carefully remove the hot casserole dish with the melted butter from the oven. Into this dish, add the can of beef consommé soup, the can of French onion soup, the drained sliced mushrooms, and the Basmati rice. Stir all the ingredients together gently until they are well combined. Ensure the rice is submerged in the liquids to cook evenly.
- Step 3: Cover and Bake. Once all the ingredients are gently mixed in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or a snug-fitting lid. This is crucial for steaming the rice and ensuring it cooks thoroughly and evenly. Place the covered dish back into the preheated oven and bake for one full hour. Resist the temptation to lift the lid during baking, as this can release essential steam needed for perfect rice.
- Step 4: Fluff and Serve. Once the baking time is complete, carefully remove the casserole dish from the oven. The rice should be tender and the liquids fully absorbed. Lift the lid, and you’ll notice the onions from the French onion soup might have risen to the top, forming a beautiful savory layer. Use a fork to gently fluff the cooked Basmati rice, distributing the onions and ensuring every grain is separate and coated with flavor. Finally, generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the warm risotto.
For an added touch of visual appeal and a hint of freshness, consider sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley over the Parmesan cheese. While this dish may not always win a beauty contest – its rustic charm is part of its appeal – rest assured, its flavor is absolutely outstanding! Serve this incredible Basmati Rice Risotto hot with your favorite main course and prepare for rave reviews.
This versatile “Stick of Butter Rice” pairs beautifully with nearly any protein. Imagine it alongside a succulent Thick Cut Bone-In Pork Chop, complementing the crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s also a fantastic companion for Roasted Chicken with Dijon Cream Sauce, where its rich flavors soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. For a truly luxurious meal, serve it with our amazingly tender and rich Braised Beef Cheeks – the savory rice perfectly balances the hearty beef, creating a symphony of flavors that will impress even the most discerning palates. This dish is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, no matter what it’s paired with.
Expert Tips for the Best Basmati Rice Risotto
While this Basmati Rice Risotto is incredibly forgiving, a few tips can help you achieve the absolute best results every time, ensuring your “Stick of Butter Rice” is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
- **Choosing Your Rice:** While Basmati rice is highly recommended for its aromatic qualities and fluffy texture, you have options. You can substitute it with other long-grain rice varieties like jasmine rice or even brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. If using brown rice, you might need to increase the baking time slightly and potentially add a touch more liquid, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. However, a crucial warning: **DO NOT use instant rice.** Instant rice is pre-cooked and dehydrated; it will absorb the liquids too quickly and become dry, hard, and utterly unappetizing in this recipe, ruining the desired risotto-like consistency.
- **Butter vs. Margarine:** The original recipe sometimes suggests margarine, but for the richest flavor and creamiest texture, we wholeheartedly recommend using **real butter**. Butter provides a depth of flavor and a luxurious mouthfeel that margarine simply cannot replicate. If you’re looking to cut down on dairy or fat, margarine is an acceptable substitute, but be prepared for a slight difference in the final taste and texture.
- **Parmesan Power:** The recipe suggests 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese as a starting point, but consider this a mere suggestion! For those who adore a cheesy, savory finish, feel free to be generous. We often find ourselves adding way more than that, sometimes doubling or even tripling the amount. A mound of freshly grated Parmesan adds an incredible salty and umami kick that perfectly complements the rich rice.
- **The Right Casserole Dish:** Using a sturdy, oven-safe casserole dish with a tight-fitting lid is essential. A 2 1/2 to 3-quart dish is ideal. A tight-fitting lid or heavy-duty aluminum foil creates a steamy environment, crucial for the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavorful liquids without drying out.
- **Resist the Urge to Peek:** Once the dish is in the oven, try to avoid lifting the lid until the full baking time is up. Every time you open the oven or lift the lid, you release steam and drop the internal temperature, which can prolong cooking time and affect the rice’s consistency. Let the oven work its magic uninterrupted!
- **Resting Period:** After removing the dish from the oven, let it rest, covered, for about 5-10 minutes before fluffing and serving. This allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining moisture and results in perfectly plump and separated grains.
- **Storage and Reheating:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Basmati Rice Risotto
This Basmati Rice Risotto recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for numerous creative variations to suit different dietary preferences or simply to introduce new flavors. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this “Stick of Butter Rice” truly your own!
- Vegetarian Version: To transform this savory side into a vegetarian-friendly dish, simply replace the beef consommé with an equal amount of high-quality vegetable broth or a rich mushroom broth. This will maintain a deep, umami flavor profile while omitting meat products. For extra nutrition and a burst of color, consider adding a variety of diced vegetables, such as peas, finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach, mixed in before baking.
- Low-Sodium Option: For individuals monitoring their salt intake, this recipe can be easily adjusted. Opt for low-sodium beef consommé and French onion soup. Many brands offer reduced-sodium versions that retain much of the flavor. You can also control the amount of sodium by reducing the quantity of Parmesan cheese or choosing a lower-sodium cheese alternative. Always taste before adding any extra salt.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, infuse your risotto with a spicy kick! Before baking, mix in a pinch or two of red pepper flakes, or for a fresher heat, add finely diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. For a smoky flavor, a dash of chipotle powder would also be excellent. Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference.
- Herb Infusion: Elevate the aromatic profile of your rice with fresh herbs. Before baking, stir in finely chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for an earthy, Mediterranean twist. Alternatively, sprinkle fresh basil, chives, or parsley (beyond just for garnish) over the top after cooking for a vibrant, fragrant finish. Dried herbs can also be used, but remember their flavor is more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount.
- Protein-Packed: Turn this side dish into a more substantial, complete meal by stirring in cooked protein after the rice has finished baking. Shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed shrimp, or leftover diced beef would all be excellent additions. Ensure the protein is fully cooked before adding it, as it only needs to be warmed through with the hot rice.
- Cheesy Deluxe: Beyond just Parmesan, try incorporating other cheeses. A mix of Gruyère or white cheddar could be stirred in towards the end of baking for extra creaminess and a different flavor dimension.
- Garlic & Onion Boost: For even more savory depth, sauté a clove or two of minced garlic and half a diced onion in a tablespoon of olive oil before melting the butter in the casserole dish. This adds another layer of foundational flavor.
More Delicious Rice Side Dish Recipes to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and flavor of our Basmati Rice Risotto, you’re in for a treat! We have a plethora of other delightful rice-based side dishes that are just as easy to make and equally satisfying. Whether you’re looking for something hearty, zesty, or comforting, our collection has a rice recipe to suit every palate and occasion. Explore these popular choices to expand your side dish repertoire:
How to Make Cajun Dirty Rice: A Hearty Southern Favorite
Dive into the rich and savory flavors of the South with our authentic Cajun Dirty Rice. This robust side dish, packed with ground meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, is a meal in itself. It’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or as a standout addition to your barbecue spread. Learn how to achieve that perfectly “dirty” and deeply flavorful rice that embodies Cajun cuisine.
Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: A Fresh and Bright Side
Brighten up any meal with our vibrant Cilantro Lime Rice. This light and zesty side dish is incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with Mexican, Asian, or grilled dishes. With its fresh herbs and tangy citrus notes, it offers a refreshing contrast to richer main courses. It’s quick to prepare and a guaranteed way to add a burst of fresh flavor to your table.
Comforting Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Rice
Indulge in classic comfort with our Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Rice. This creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious casserole combines tender broccoli florets and fluffy rice in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. It’s a beloved family favorite that makes a hearty side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you crave a warm, cheesy hug.
Basmati Rice Risotto Recipe
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Ingredients
- 10.5 oz can beef consomme
- 10.75 oz can french onion soup
- 4 oz can sliced mushrooms
- 1 1/3 cup basmati rice
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (1 stick)
- 2 – 4 Tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
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Place the full stick of butter in a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish and set it in the preheating oven to melt completely.
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Once the butter is melted, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Add the beef consommé, French onion soup, drained sliced mushrooms, and Basmati rice to the casserole dish. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquids.
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Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid and bake for one hour. Do not remove the lid during baking.
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After baking, remove from oven. Gently fluff the cooked rice with a fork (the onions will have risen to the top). Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot.