Name: Savory Mushroom Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice.; 10 ounce can condensed French onion soup.; 10 ounce can beef consommé.; 8 ounces fresh button or cremini mushrooms, sliced thin.; 1/4 cup butter, cut into several slices.; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce.; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional).

The Ultimate Savory Mushroom Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that's sure to become a favorite. This recipe features tender long grain white rice cooked with earthy mushrooms, infused with the rich flavors of French onion soup and beef consommé. The addition of butter and Worcestershire sauce adds depth and richness, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional) creates a deliciously cheesy finish. Whether you're serving it alongside roasted meats, chicken, or as a hearty vegetarian dish, this Mushroom Rice is versatile and satisfying. It's perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners, offering a simple yet elegant way to elevate your meal.

Mushroom Rice is a delicious and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. This dish combines long grain white rice with flavorful ingredients like French onion soup, beef consommé, and fresh mushrooms. The addition of butter and a touch of Worcestershire sauce enhances the depth of flavor, making this rice dish rich and satisfying. Whether served alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal, Mushroom Rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so special.

INGREDIENTS

Long Grain White Rice: 1 cup, uncooked. The base of the dish, providing a fluffy and tender texture.
Condensed French Onion Soup: 10 ounces. Adds a rich, oniony flavor and helps to infuse the rice with delicious savory notes.
Beef Consommé: 10 ounces. Provides a deep, beefy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Fresh Button or Cremini Mushrooms: 8 ounces, sliced thin. Adds a meaty texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
Butter: 1/4 cup, cut into several slices. Adds richness and a creamy texture to the rice.
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon. Adds a tangy and slightly sweet depth of flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): 3 tablespoons. Adds a salty and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare Rice Mixture: In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked long grain white rice, condensed French onion soup, beef consommé, sliced mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir the ingredients together until well mixed, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Butter: Cut the butter into several slices and distribute them evenly over the top of the rice mixture. The butter will melt and add a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
Step 4: Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This allows the rice to cook thoroughly and absorb the flavorful liquids.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese: After 40 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, if using. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This step helps to develop a golden, slightly crispy top layer.
Step 6: Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it stand for 2-3 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to distribute the ingredients evenly and release steam. Serve the Mushroom Rice hot as a side dish or main course, and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve Mushroom Rice hot, straight from the oven, as a delicious side dish alongside roasted meats, chicken, or fish. It also pairs well with vegetarian dishes like stuffed bell peppers or sautéed vegetables.
If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
To store leftovers, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This dish can also be made ahead of time. Prepare the rice mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just follow the baking instructions when you're ready to serve.

Helpful Notes

For a more intense mushroom flavor, consider adding a handful of dried mushrooms to the rice mixture. Soak them in warm water for 15 minutes, then chop and add along with the soaking liquid.
If you prefer a less rich dish, reduce the amount of butter or use a light margarine. The dish will still be flavorful and satisfying.
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the beef consommé with vegetable broth and use a vegetarian-friendly French onion soup.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Julia Child suggests using a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini and shiitake, for a more complex flavor profile.
Chef Alton Brown recommends adding a splash of white wine to the rice mixture for a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the dish.
Chef Ina Garten advises cooking the rice mixture uncovered for the last 10 minutes to achieve a slightly crispy top layer.