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Crispy Buttered Rice

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Crispy buttered rice is a savory, comforting side dish where tender rice is baked with butter, caramelized onions, zucchini, and feta until the bottom forms a golden, crunchy crust. It’s an easy way to elevate leftover or overcooked rice into a crowd-pleasing favorite.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
  3. Add diced onion and sauté for 8–10 minutes until soft and golden.
  4. Add zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender. Transfer mixture to a bowl.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, add crumbled feta and cooked rice, and toss to combine.
  6. Return skillet to medium heat and melt half of the remaining butter (about 85 g).
  7. Add rice mixture to skillet and press it firmly into an even layer.
  8. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven, dot top with remaining butter, and return to oven for another 15 minutes.
  10. Bake until bottom is golden and crispy.
  11. Serve from skillet or carefully invert onto a serving plate.

Notes

  • Use leftover rice for better texture and easier crisping.
  • Swap zucchini with other vegetables like carrots or mushrooms.
  • Add herbs like parsley or dill for brightness.
  • Substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter version.
  • Reheat leftovers in a skillet to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/crispy-buttered-rice/