Stick of Butter Rice: Rich, Buttery, and Incredibly Delicious

Q: What is the main ingredient in stick of butter rice?

The key ingredient is long-grain white rice , which absorbs the buttery, savory broth while maintaining a fluffy texture.

Q: How do you reheat stick of butter rice without drying it out?

The best method is to add a splash of broth or melted butter and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave for moisture retention.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but brown rice requires extra broth and a longer cooking time (about 60-65 minutes instead of 45).

Q: Is stick of butter rice gluten-free?

Yes, but ensure your onion soup mix and broth are gluten-free , as some brands contain hidden gluten.

Q: Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Try adding shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled sausage for a protein-packed version.

Q: What’s the difference between butter rice and risotto?

While both dishes are creamy and rich, risotto requires constant stirring , whereas stick of butter rice is baked and hands-off .

Imagine a side dish so rich, buttery, and satisfying that it instantly elevates any meal. That’s exactly what stick of butter rice delivers. This simple, oven-baked recipe turns basic white rice into a deeply flavorful dish with just a few ingredients. The combination of butter, beef broth, and seasonings results in a golden, savory rice dish with a texture that’s soft yet never mushy.

Whether you need an easy weeknight side, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or the perfect complement to a hearty main course, stick of butter rice is a game-changer. Moreover, it’s incredibly simple to make—just mix, bake, and enjoy! We will show you how to master the recipe, avoid common mistakes, and customize it to suit your taste.

What is Stick of Butter Rice?

A Rich, Oven-Baked Classic

Unlike traditional stovetop rice, stick of butter rice is cooked in the oven. As a result, it absorbs every bit of buttery richness while developing a slightly crispy, golden crust on top. Originally a Southern comfort food, this dish has gained popularity across the U.S. because it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal effort, and pairs well with nearly everything.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Set It & Forget It: Once in the oven, the rice cooks without stirring or monitoring, making it foolproof.
Deep, Savory Flavor: The slow baking process ensures every grain absorbs the buttery broth, creating an incredibly rich taste.
Perfect Texture: The rice comes out soft and fluffy with just the right balance of moisture.

Ingredients for Stick of Butter Rice

One of the best things about this dish is its short ingredient list. Each item plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
White rice	1 cup	Long-grain recommended
Butter	1 stick (½ cup)	Unsalted for better control
Beef broth	2 ½ cups	Can substitute with chicken broth
Onion soup mix	1 packet	Adds depth of flavor
Garlic powder	½ tsp	Optional but highly recommended

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Why use long-grain rice? It keeps its shape better than short-grain varieties, preventing mushiness.
Can I use salted butter? Yes, but adjust the seasoning to avoid an overly salty dish.
Is the onion soup mix necessary? It enhances flavor, but you can substitute it with a mix of dried onions, bouillon, and seasoning.

How to Make Stick of Butter Rice – Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe follows a simple 3-step process: mix, bake, and fluff. However, small details can make or break the final dish, so follow each step carefully.

Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients

Before baking, take a few key preparation steps to ensure the rice turns out fluffy and flavorful.

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). The high temperature helps create a slightly crispy top layer while keeping the rice moist inside.
Slice the butter into small, even pieces so it melts evenly over the rice.

Step 2 – Assembling the Dish

In a 9×9-inch baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, beef broth, and onion soup mix. Stir to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Evenly scatter the butter pieces over the top. This step ensures even melting and that every bite has a rich, buttery flavor.

Step 3 – Baking to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and help the rice absorb the broth evenly.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed.
Remove from the oven and fluff with a fork to separate the grains. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4 – Checking for Doneness

After 40-45 minutes of baking, carefully remove the foil and inspect the rice. You should see that all the liquid has been absorbed, and the grains appear tender. If there is still visible broth, return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.

To test the rice, use a fork to fluff a small section. The grains should be separate, soft, and moist but not mushy. If they feel undercooked or too firm, add a few tablespoons of warm broth, cover with foil, and bake for another 5 minutes.

Step 5 – Fluffing the Rice

Once the rice is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing. This short resting period allows steam to redistribute, helping the grains firm up slightly and preventing excessive stickiness.

Using a fork, gently separate the grains. Avoid stirring too aggressively, as this can break the rice and create a gummy texture.

Step 6 – Serving and Garnishing

Presentation matters! While stick of butter rice is delicious on its own, garnishing adds an extra touch of elegance and enhances flavor.

Best Garnishes for Stick of Butter Rice

Fresh herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley, thyme, or chives for color and freshness.
Shredded cheese – Stir in Parmesan or sharp cheddar for a creamy, rich finish.
A drizzle of melted butter – Adds an extra layer of richness.

For an elevated presentation, serve the rice in a wide, shallow bowl with your chosen garnishes carefully arranged on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, certain mistakes can ruin the texture or flavor. Avoid these common errors for perfect results every time.

Adding Too Much Liquid

Using too much broth results in mushy rice. Always stick to the recommended 2 ½ cups per 1 cup of rice.

Skipping the Foil Cover

The foil traps steam and allows the rice to cook evenly. Skipping this step can cause unevenly cooked or crunchy grains.

Overbaking the Rice

Leaving the rice in the oven too long can dry it out. Check it after 40 minutes, and if the liquid is absorbed, remove it immediately.

Pro Tips & Variations for the Best Stick of Butter Rice

This dish is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to customize to suit your taste. Whether you want more flavor, texture, or dietary modifications, these pro tips and variations will take your rice to the next level.

Expert Tips for Perfect Butter Rice Every Time

Use quality butter – Opt for unsalted, high-fat butter for the best flavor.
Let the rice rest – Allowing the rice to sit for 5 minutes after baking improves texture.
Avoid stirring during baking – Unlike risotto, baked rice does not need stirring, as this can make it too starchy.

Creative Recipe Variations

Garlic Butter Rice – Add roasted garlic for a deeper, aromatic flavor.
Cheesy Butter Rice – Stir in melted cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving.
Mushroom Butter Rice – Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter before adding them to the dish.

How to Pair Stick of Butter Rice with Main Dishes

One of the biggest advantages of stick of butter rice is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and creamy stews.

Best Proteins to Serve with Butter Rice

Grilled Chicken – The smokiness of grilled chicken balances the buttery richness.
Seared Steak – A juicy steak with a crispy crust pairs perfectly with the rice’s soft texture.
Salmon or Shrimp – Seafood complements the savory, umami notes of butter rice.

Vegetable Pairings

Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their slight bitterness provides contrast.
Sautéed Spinach or Kale – Adds a vibrant, nutritious element.
Steamed Asparagus – A light and refreshing side dish.

Perfect Pairings with Soups & Stews

Beef Stew – The rice soaks up the rich, hearty broth.
Creamy Tomato Soup – The buttery rice complements the soup’s acidity.
Chicken & Dumplings – A true Southern-style comfort meal.

How to Store and Reheat Stick of Butter Rice

If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and maintain their delicious buttery flavor.

How to Store Leftover Butter Rice

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Best Reheating Methods

Microwave – Add a splash of broth, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals.
Stovetop – Heat over low with extra butter to revive the flavors.
Oven – Cover with foil and bake at 300°F for 15 minutes.

FAQs

What is the main ingredient in stick of butter rice?

The key ingredient is long-grain white rice, which absorbs the buttery, savory broth while maintaining a fluffy texture.

How do you reheat stick of butter rice without drying it out?

The best method is to add a splash of broth or melted butter and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave for moisture retention.

Can I make stick of butter rice ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and bake it in advance, then store it in the fridge. Reheat with a bit of broth before serving to restore its texture.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but brown rice requires extra broth and a longer cooking time (about 60-65 minutes instead of 45).

Is stick of butter rice gluten-free?

Yes, but ensure your onion soup mix and broth are gluten-free, as some brands contain hidden gluten.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Try adding shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled sausage for a protein-packed version.

What’s the difference between butter rice and risotto?

While both dishes are creamy and rich, risotto requires constant stirring, whereas stick of butter rice is baked and hands-off.

Conclusion

Stick of butter rice is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. By using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality side dish that pairs well with almost anything.

By following this detailed guide, you now have all the expert tips, variations, and serving suggestions needed to master this recipe. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this buttery, oven-baked rice is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Try this recipe today, and enjoy the irresistible combination of butter, broth, and perfectly cooked rice—it’s so good, you’ll want to make it again and again!