This crispy buttered rice is a comforting side dish born from a kitchen mishap and perfected in the oven. Tender rice is tossed with caramelized onions, zucchini, and feta, then baked in butter until the bottom turns irresistibly golden and crunchy while the inside stays soft and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms ordinary cooked rice into something special with very little effort. It is rich, savory, and satisfying, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or as a standout side for special meals. It is also an excellent way to rescue rice that turned out a little too wet, turning a potential mistake into a dish everyone will ask for again.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked white rice (measured after cooking, cooked according to package directions)
• 170 g unsalted butter (1 stick), divided
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (additional)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 medium zucchini, finely diced or shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium oven-safe skillet or braiser over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
3. Add the diced onion and sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.
4. Add the zucchini to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender. Remove the onion and zucchini mixture to a large bowl.
5. Season the vegetables with salt and black pepper, add the crumbled feta, and then add the cooked white rice. Gently toss until evenly combined.
6. Return the same skillet to medium heat and melt half of the remaining butter (about 85 g).
7. Once melted, add the rice mixture to the skillet and press it down firmly into an even layer.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes.
9. Remove the skillet from the oven, dot the top of the rice with the remaining butter, and return it to the oven.
10. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the underside of the rice is deeply golden and crispy.
11. Remove from the oven and serve directly from the skillet or carefully invert onto a serving plate.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cheese-free version: Omit the feta for a simpler, buttery rice with pure crispy flavor.
• Vegetable swaps: Replace zucchini with finely diced carrots, mushrooms, or red onion.
• Herb addition: Stir in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley or dill before baking for added freshness.
• Oil-based option: Substitute olive oil for the butter if preferred, using the same measurements.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter and warm until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat it in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use rice that is already cold?

Yes, cold leftover rice works very well and often crisps even better in the oven.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

White rice such as jasmine or sushi-style rice works best because it becomes tender inside and crispy outside.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the rice mixture ahead of time, but bake it just before serving for the best texture.

Do I need an oven-safe skillet?

Yes, an oven-safe skillet or braiser is important since the rice finishes cooking in the oven.

How do I know when the rice is crispy enough?

The rice is ready when the bottom is golden brown and releases easily from the skillet.

Can I reduce the amount of butter?

You can reduce it slightly, but the butter is key to achieving the rich flavor and crisp texture.

Is this recipe suitable for a main dish?

It works best as a side, but you can serve it as a main by adding cooked vegetables or halal protein on top.

Can I freeze crispy rice?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture will become soft once thawed.

What should I serve with crispy buttered rice?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled seafood, or spiced chicken dishes.

Why press the rice down before baking?

Pressing the rice ensures even contact with the skillet, which helps create a uniform crispy crust.

Conclusion

Crispy buttered rice is proof that simple ingredients can deliver incredible results. With its golden crust, savory flavor, and comforting texture, this dish turns everyday rice into something truly memorable. Whether you are fixing overly wet rice or just craving a satisfying side, this recipe is one you will want to make again and again.

Print