Simple Oven Baked Rice

Name: Simple Oven Baked Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed); 2 cups water (boiling); 1 tbsp butter (unsalted); 1/2 tsp salt

55 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover the fool-proof way to make fluffy oven baked rice with minimal effort, perfect for any meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

35 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Oven baked rice is a simple yet effective way to achieve perfectly cooked grains without the need for constant monitoring. This method ensures that each grain is fluffy and separate, making it a fantastic side dish for a variety of cuisines. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, oven baked rice is an effortless addition to your culinary repertoire. Our version of oven baked rice leverages the gentle, even heat of the oven to deliver consistently excellent results. By using basic pantry staples and a straightforward technique, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate set-it-and-forget-it cooking.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Prepare the baking dish

Grease a small baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Pro tip: A 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) dish works well.

Combine ingredients

In the baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, boiling water, butter, and salt. Stir to mix well.

Pro tip: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch.

Cover tightly

Cover the dish tightly with aluminium foil, ensuring a tight seal to trap steam.

Pro tip: Use heavy-duty foil for the best seal.

Bake the rice

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.

Pro tip: Do not uncover during baking.

Rest the rice

Remove from oven and let the rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming.

Pro tip: This resting period is crucial for the texture.

Fluff and serve

Remove the foil, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and serve warm.

Pro tip: Avoid stirring too vigorously to keep grains intact.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Use a heavy, oven-safe dish for even cooking.
Seal the dish tightly with foil to trap steam.
Let the rice rest before serving for better texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to bake rice in the oven?

The rice bakes in the oven for 35 minutes, followed by a 10-minute rest.

What is the ratio of rice to water for oven baked rice?

The ratio is 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of boiling water.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the baking time to about 45 minutes and use 2 1/2 cups of water.

How can I add more flavour to oven baked rice?

Consider adding chicken broth instead of water or mixing in herbs and spices before baking.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure you have the correct rice-to-water ratio and do not uncover during baking or resting.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this oven baked rice alongside your favourite grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The neutral flavour profile allows it to complement a wide range of dishes, from spicy curries to rich stews. You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. For larger gatherings, feel free to double the recipe, ensuring you use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume.