I’m going to tell you a secret. I don’t know why. Sometimes, okay *most* times, I need dinner on the table FAST. Why is Garlic Butter Rice so popular? Is it like risotto’s chill cousin – all the comfort, but without the constant stirring? I think I make it at least once a week. Is it a total flavor bomb and seriously simple even for the most chaotic weeknights? If you love garlic bread, then prepare to meet its even more delicious soulmate. Garlic Butter Rice.
What is garlic butter rice?
What is a comfort food? Garlic Butter Rice is essentially perfectly cooked rice (I usually use long grain white rice, but I prefer brown rice). ), infused with the rich flavor of garlic and butter. It’s not just garlic and butter, though! We’re talking about browned butter, which gives it this nutty, almost caramelized flavor that’s just as good as caramel. What is the best way to cook garlic? What is a good alternative to regular rice?
Why you should try this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? The flavor is out of this world. That browned butter combined with the garlic just creates this incredible depth of flavor that’s seriously addictive. It’s like a hug in a bowl, you know? But besides the taste, what I love most about this Garlic Butter Rice is how ridiculously easy it is to make. I’m talking one-pan, minimal-effort kind of easy. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, it’s so budget-friendly! Rice, butter, and garlic are pantry staples, so you can whip this up anytime without breaking the bank.
What are the possibilities? What are some good Side Dishes to serve with grilled chicken, fish, steak…you name it. Is it a good base for stir-fries, or eaten on its own? What are some comforting What I love is how it elevates the simple rice, transforming it to a restaurant quality side. It’s like the simple white shirt of the food world; goes with everything and always classy.
How do I make garlic butter rice?
Quick Overview
How do I make garlic butter rice? What is the best way to cook butter in a pan, browning it to bring out the nutty flavor, then adding salt and pepper to taste. What is the best way to cook garlic in a pan until fragrant? Then, you add the rice, toast it slightly, and finally, pour in water (or broth for extra flavor! What is the best way to Cook Rice? It’s a mostly hands-off process that delivers amazing results every single time. Is it so easy to make a recipe? I feel like too little effort for such a delicious end.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Rice: What is the recipe?
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (I always use good quality butter; it makes a difference!)
* 4 cloves garlic, minced (freshly chopped is best for that intense garlic flavor)
* 1 cup long grain white rice (rinsed until the water runs clear – this gets rid of extra starch and sourdough). How do I prevent stickiness?
* 2 cups water (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, if possible!)
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish – optional, but it adds a nice pop of freshness)
What are the steps that
Step 1: Melt and Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it cook, swirling occasionally, until it turns a nutty brown color and smells absolutely divine. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once the butter is browned, immediately move on to the next step.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the browned butter and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic brown or burn, as it will become bitter. You just want it to release its lovely aroma.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the garlic butter. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the rice and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Step 4: Add Water (or Broth) and Seasoning
Pour in the water (or chicken broth) and add the salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with the lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it will release steam and affect the cooking process.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute and the rice to become even more fluffy. After 5 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
Honestly, this Garlic Butter Rice goes with *everything*. It’s seriously my go-to side dish for any occasion.
What’s a good weeknight dinner? Serve it alongside some simple Grilled Chicken breasts or pan-seared salmon. It’s also amazing with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. It makes healthy eating a bit more exciting, you know?
For a Fancy Feast: This rice is elegant enough to serve with a perfectly cooked steak or a beautiful roasted chicken. Add a side of steamed artichokes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
For a Cozy Meal:I love serving this with a hearty stew or soup. What is the perfect accompaniment to a cold, hearty meal? Sometimes, I even eat a bowl of it on its own when I’m craving something simple.
What is your favorite combination of Garlic Butter Rice and Shrimp Scampi? What are the flavors that complement each other? If you’re a vegetarian, try roasted tofu and sautéed spinach. Trust me. You won’t be disappointed.
How do you cook garlic butter rice?
I’ve made this recipe so many times; I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here are my top tips for achieving Garlic Butter Rice perfection:
Browning Butter: How do you cookWhat is the key to getting that nutty, rich flavor? Keep a close eye on the butter and swirl it frequently to ensure it browns evenly. What is the best way to keep butter from burning?
How do you rinse rice?Don’t skip this step! What are some ways to remove starch from rice? How do I rinse a fish under cold water until it runs clear?
Toasting the Rice:What is the best way to toast rice in garlic butter before adding water? Why is it mushy? Cook it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s lightly toasted.
Don’t lift the lid!Once the rice is simmering, resist the urge to lift the lid! When you lift the lid, you release steam, which can affect the cooking process and result in unevenly cooked meat. Trust the process and let it simmer undisturbed.
Flavor Boost:What are some ways to use chicken broth instead of water? Can you add bay leaf or thyme to the saucepan while the rice is simmering? Just remember to remove it before serving!
Adding Veggies: I sometimes add finely diced vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn to the rice while it’s simmering. This is a great way to add some extra nutrients and flavor to the dish. It’s also a good way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters (shhh!).
Storing and Reheating Tips
Garlic Butter Rice is great for meal prepping, but it’s important to store it properly to maintain its quality. Here’s how I do it:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving cooked rice at room temperature for more than two hours, as it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. If you’re not planning on eating it right away, store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating it, as this will help to prevent condensation from forming, which can make the rice soggy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Garlic Butter Rice. Spread the cooled rice in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until it’s solid. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Freezing it in a single layer first prevents it from clumping together.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated rice, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the container and microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. To reheat frozen rice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or microwave it on the defrost setting. Then, reheat it as directed above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Garlic Butter Rice Recipe a try. It’s so simple, yet so incredibly flavorful and versatile. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will become one in yours too. The combination of browned butter and fragrant garlic is just irresistible, and the fact that it only takes about 20 minutes to make is a major bonus. If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your weeknight dinners, this is it!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other easy side dish recipes, like my Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes or my Creamy Lemon Orzo. They’re all quick, simple, and packed with flavor. And if you try this Garlic Butter Rice recipe, please let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share your own variations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add rice and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
