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French Onion Soup Rice

French Onion Soup Rice is a delightful twist on classic French onion soup, combining savory caramelized onions and rich, flavorful broth with tender rice for a comforting dish. It’s perfect as a side or a main course, and the cheese on top adds a delicious, creamy element.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course side or main course
Cuisine French Cuisine
Servings 4 People
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Ladle
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Cheese grater if using block cheese

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 6 cups vegetable broth or beef broth
  • 1 cup Arborio rice (or long-grain rice)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
  • Add the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the vegetable or beef broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Add the Arborio rice to the pot, stirring well to combine. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Once done, remove the bay leaves, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Serve the rice hot in bowls, and top each serving with shredded Gruyère cheese. If desired, place the bowls under a broiler for 1-2 minutes to melt and lightly brown the cheese.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley if using, and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the onions before adding the broth.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding cooked proteins like chicken or beef for a heartier meal.
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.