Kitchen Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make Stick of Butter Baked Rice:
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – For baking the rice.
- Saucepan – For melting the butter and heating the broth.
- Mixing Spoon – For combining ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the stick of butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the uncooked rice with the melted butter, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated.
- Bake the Rice: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. The foil helps to keep the moisture in, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.
- Uncover and Fluff: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and check the rice. If it’s tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, fluff the rice with a fork. If the rice is still a bit firm or there’s excess liquid, return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Serve: Once the rice is fully cooked and fluffy, serve it as a side dish with your favorite main courses.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Long-Grain Rice: Long-grain rice works best for this recipe because it remains fluffy and separate after baking. Avoid using sticky or short-grain rice.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or dried herbs for extra flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For a more complete side dish, consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn. Simply stir them into the rice before baking.
How to Store Stick of Butter Baked Rice
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the rice and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations on the Recipe
- Cheesy Baked Rice: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Herbed Rice: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the rice mixture for added flavor.
- Mushroom Rice: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the rice for an earthy flavor.
