Name: 1 ½ cups long-grain rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Global
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups long-grain rice; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version); 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Jump to Recipe

Imagine your dinner table transformed by a steaming bowl of rich and savory golden onion butter rice. This classic dish combines 1 ½ cups long-grain rice with deeply caramelized onions, a swirl of creamy butter, and fragrant broth to create a comforting, golden-hued side you’ll crave week after week. It uses pantry staples but delivers tons of flavor—and the best part is how easy (and foolproof) it is, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie.

1 ½ cups long-grain rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised by how a handful of simple ingredients can create such an irresistible dish! Each component here, from the onions to the 1 ½ cups long-grain rice, plays an essential role in building flavor, luscious texture, and that perfect golden color.

1 ½ cups long-grain rice: The backbone of this dish, its fluffy and separate grains absorb all the savory flavors and create that picture-perfect result.
2 tablespoons butter: Gives a luxurious, silky richness you’ll taste in every bite.
1 large onion, finely chopped: Slowly cooked until golden and sweet, infusing the whole pot with irresistible aroma and flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a gentle, mouthwatering layer of savory depth.
3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Bathes the rice in savory goodness and brings everything together; use vegetable broth for an easy vegetarian swap.
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors and ensures your rice isn’t bland.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives just the right hit of warmth and subtle heat.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a bright, fresh pop of green color and flavor as a finishing touch.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the onion and garlic so they caramelize with extra flavor.

How to Make 1 ½ cups long-grain rice

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until it softens and turns a beautiful golden color—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t rush this step! That golden onion is key to the rich, savory flavor of your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice. Add the minced garlic in the last minute, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Pour in your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice and stir it into the onion and garlic mixture. Let the rice toast gently for 1 to 2 minutes, so every grain gets a bit glossy. This not only adds flavor but helps the rice cook up beautifully separate and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Now pour in the chicken broth (or veggie broth, if you prefer), as well as the salt and black pepper. Stir everything together, scraping up any delightful golden bits from the pan, and bring to a gentle boil. This is where those 1 ½ cups long-grain rice begin their flavorful transformation!

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Once your rice is bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan tightly. Let it simmer gently for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Resist the urge to peek—trapping the steam is crucial for fluffy results when cooking 1 ½ cups long-grain rice.

Step 5: Rest, Fluff, and Finish

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This helps finish the cooking process and makes the grains easy to fluff. Use a fork to fluff the 1 ½ cups long-grain rice, releasing steam and separating the grains, then scatter the chopped parsley over the top for a final fresh flourish.

How to Serve 1 ½ cups long-grain rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant green pop and a hint of brightness that balances the savory butter and onions. You can also add finely sliced green onions, a dusting of smoked paprika, or even toasted sliced almonds for an extra crunch and flavor kick atop your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice.

Side Dishes

This golden onion butter rice plays well with all kinds of main courses: pair it with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or hearty stews. It’s also a perfect partner for vegetarian dishes like stuffed peppers or a plate of caramelized roasted veggies, making your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice the star of any meal spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For extra wow factor, pack your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice into a small bowl or ramekin, then invert it onto each plate for a neat, domed mound. You can also serve it family-style in a beautiful wide bowl, studded with extra herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of brown butter for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any extra 1 ½ cups long-grain rice can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let it cool to room temperature first, then seal it tightly so it stays just as moist and tender for your next meal.

Freezing

You can freeze your golden onion butter rice, too! Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or zipper bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Label and date them so you always know what’s ready to grab. For best taste and texture, enjoy frozen rice within 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice and cover loosely before microwaving. Alternatively, steam it on the stovetop with a splash of extra broth or water. These tricks will keep your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice soft, fluffy, and never dried out.

FAQs

Can I use short-grain rice instead of 1 ½ cups long-grain rice?

Short-grain rice cooks up stickier and less fluffy than long-grain, so the texture will change. For the best classic results, stick with the recommended 1 ½ cups long-grain rice.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken broth with your favorite vegetable broth. Everything else remains the same, so you’ll still enjoy all the rich, savory flavor with your 1 ½ cups long-grain rice.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled. Make sure to use a larger pot and keep the same ratio: 1 ½ cups long-grain rice for every 3 cups of broth, and watch the simmer time (it may need a few extra minutes).

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Be sure to sauté the rice in butter and oil before adding the broth, and use a nonstick or heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stirring occasionally while sautéing also helps keep your grains separate and fluffy.

Can I add other vegetables or spices?

Definitely! Peas, diced carrots, or a pinch of turmeric (for extra golden color) all work beautifully. Adjust seasonings to taste for your perfect version of 1 ½ cups long-grain rice.

Final Thoughts

Once you try making 1 ½ cups long-grain rice with golden onions and butter, you’ll see how easy it is to create restaurant-quality flavor at home. This satisfying, savory side is destined to become a household favorite—don’t be surprised when you find yourself reaching for 1 ½ cups long-grain rice again and again!

1 ½ cups long-grain rice Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 27 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Rich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. The caramelized onions and buttery richness elevate simple rice to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main ingredients:

1 ½ cups long-grain rice
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Additional ingredients:

3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
Add the rice: Pour in the long-grain rice and stir to coat the grains with the buttery mixture.
Cook the rice: Pour in the chicken broth and add salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff and garnish: Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For added richness, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Feel free to customize this dish by adding in some toasted nuts or dried fruits for a different flavor profile.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Global