French Onion Soup Rice

This baked rice casserole is a savory twist on the classic French onion soup, combining deeply caramelized onions with fluffy rice, rich beef broth, and a golden layer of melted Gruyère cheese. It makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy dinner that feels special but is simple to prepare.

I first made this dish on a quiet Sunday afternoon when I wanted the flavors of French onion soup but something heartier. Now it’s a favorite in my rotation for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• Two large yellow onions: thinly sliced for sweetness and a rich caramelized base
• Two tablespoons unsalted butter: adds creamy richness, use fresh for the best flavor
• One tablespoon olive oil: helps the onions cook evenly without burning
• Two cups cooked white rice: provides hearty texture and soaks up the savory broth
• Two cups beef broth: adds depth and classic broth flavor, homemade or high-quality store-bought both work well
• One teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: imparts a subtle herbal note that ties everything together
• One cup shredded Gruyère cheese: brings creamy meltiness and a slightly nutty flavor, look for good quality aged cheese
• Salt and black pepper: to taste for balancing and seasoning the dish perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Onions:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 to 25 minutes until they turn deep golden brown and caramelized. This step is essential to develop the characteristic sweetness and depth typical of French onion recipes.

Season and Combine with Rice:

Add the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to the caramelized onions. Then fold in the cooked white rice, mixing thoroughly so the rice absorbs the rich onion flavor.

Arrange in Baking Dish and Add Broth:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a medium baking dish. Transfer the onion and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Pour the beef broth gently over the top, allowing it to soak through the rice.

Top with Cheese and Bake:

Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown slightly.

Serve:

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, ideally paired with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.

Pin it

My favorite ingredient is the Gruyère cheese. It melts so beautifully and adds a nutty, slightly sweet complexity that truly elevates this otherwise humble rice casserole. One family dinner we enjoyed it with crusty bread and good company, and it instantly became a comfort food tradition for us.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through to maintain the cheese's gooey texture. This casserole also freezes well, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace beef broth with vegetable broth and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You could swap yellow onions for sweet onions or even shallots for a more delicate flavor. White rice can be replaced with brown rice for more fiber, but you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking times.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a fuller meal, add roasted or steamed vegetables on the side. A glass of light red wine or sparkling water with lemon nicely accompanies the savory flavors.

Pin it

Cultural Context

French onion soup is a classic in French cuisine traditionally served as a broth-based soup topped with melted cheese and croutons. This rice casserole adapts those iconic flavors into a baked dish that feels more substantial and family-friendly while staying true to the taste profile of rich onions, thyme, beef broth, and Gruyère cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I caramelize the onions properly?

Cook thinly sliced yellow onions slowly over medium heat in butter and olive oil, stirring occasionally for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown. Patience is key for that rich, sweet flavor.

→ Can I substitute beef broth with another liquid?

Yes, vegetable broth or chicken broth can be used to keep a similar depth of flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.

→ What cheese works best for melting on top?

Gruyère cheese is ideal for a smooth, nutty melt, but other cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella can also be used depending on your taste.

→ Is it necessary to cook the rice before assembling the dish?

Pre-cooked white rice helps evenly distribute the flavors and ensures the final casserole has the right texture after baking.

→ Can fresh thyme be replaced with dried thyme?

Dried thyme works as a substitute; use about one-third of the fresh amount to avoid overpowering the dish.

→ What temperature and duration are best for baking?

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a light golden finish.