Oven Baked Rice Recipe

Introduction

This oven baked rice recipe is a simple and hands-off way to prepare perfectly fluffy rice every time. Using boiling water and baking in the oven ensures even cooking and a tender texture. It’s a great side dish that pairs well with many meals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long grain white rice (preferably Uncle Ben’s)
• 3 1/2 cups boiling water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Place the uncooked rice and butter in an ovenproof baking dish with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Step 3: Bring the water (or broth) to a boil in a separate pot or kettle.
4. Step 4: Carefully pour the boiling water over the rice in the baking dish.
5. Step 5: Stir gently to distribute the water evenly and break up any clumps of rice.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish tightly with the lid. If the lid is not tight, add a layer of foil for a better seal.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the rice is light and fluffy.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute broth for water to add extra flavor to the rice.
• Add a pinch of herbs or a clove of garlic before baking for a subtle aromatic touch.
• If using a glass or ceramic dish, make sure it’s oven safe and has a tight lid to prevent steam from escaping.

Storage

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture and fluffiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more water. If substituting, increase the boiling water to 4 1/2 cups and bake for about 45 minutes, checking for doneness.

Do I have to use a baking dish with a lid?

Yes, covering the dish tightly traps steam needed to cook the rice evenly. If your dish doesn’t have a lid, a layer of foil can be used to seal in the moisture.

Oven Baked Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 82 reviews

This Oven Baked Rice recipe offers a simple and reliable way to cook fluffy and perfectly tender long grain white rice using the oven. By baking the rice with boiling water and butter in a covered dish, you achieve a moist texture without needing to watch the stove. Ideal as a side dish for a variety of meals, this method ensures evenly cooked rice every time with minimal effort.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 2 cups long grain white rice (preferably Uncle Ben’s)
• 3 1/2 cups boiling water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the rice.
2. Prepare Rice and Butter: Place the uncooked rice and butter in an ovenproof baking dish that has a tight fitting lid to ensure even cooking and moisture retention.
3. Boil Water: Bring 3 1/2 cups of water (or broth if preferred) to a rolling boil in a separate pot or kettle.
4. Combine Ingredients: Carefully pour the boiling water over the rice in the baking dish. Stir gently to ensure the rice is evenly coated, and break up any clumps that may have formed.
5. Cover and Seal: Cover the baking dish tightly with the lid. If the lid does not seal well, add a layer of aluminum foil beneath the lid to keep steam trapped inside for optimal cooking.
6. Bake the Rice: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the rice is light, fluffy, and fully cooked through.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy this perfectly baked rice as a versatile accompaniment to your meals.

Notes

• For added flavor, you can substitute some or all the boiling water with chicken or vegetable broth.
• Ensure the baking dish is tightly covered to prevent the steam from escaping, which is essential for properly cooking the rice.
• If you prefer your rice less buttery, reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon or omit it altogether.
• This method works well for long grain white rice; other types of rice may require different cooking times or liquid ratios.
• Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes after baking for the best texture before fluffing and serving.

Keywords: oven baked rice, baked rice recipe, how to bake rice, easy rice side dish, fluffy rice, long grain white rice