Description

This French Onion Soup Rice is a rich, comforting dish inspired by the classic French onion soup. Caramelized onions are slowly cooked until golden and paired with toasted rice simmered in savory beef broth and herbs. Finished with a cheesy Gruyère and Parmesan topping that melts into the warm rice, this recipe offers a deliciously savory side or light vegetarian main when made with vegetable broth.

Ingredients

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Base Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 garlic cloves, minced

Rice and Broth

1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine)
2 1/2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Cheese and Garnish

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute to release its aroma without burning.
Toast Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the rice slightly and allow it to absorb the onion flavors.
Simmer with Broth and Herbs: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
Add Cheese: Remove from heat and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top, cover for 2–3 minutes to let the cheese melt.
Serve: Either stir the melted cheese into the rice for a creamy texture or leave it as a cheesy topping. Season with black pepper to taste and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

This dish works as a hearty side or a simple vegetarian main if you swap beef broth for vegetable broth.
For added richness and depth, stir in sautéed mushrooms during the onion caramelization step.
Top with crispy fried onions before serving for extra texture and flavor.