If you’ve been craving that savory, buttery, and perfectly spiced side dish that steals the show at your favorite steakhouse, meet your new obsession: Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice. This copycat recipe brings those golden, aromatic grains right to your table—bursting with flavor and begging to be scooped up with every meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It tastes just like the real deal: You’ll get that unmistakable, buttery and savory flavor profile of Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice—without ever leaving your kitchen.
- Foolproof comfort food: Every bite is bursting with well-balanced spices, a hint of smokiness, and an ultra-satisfying texture—perfect for pairing with anything from grilled chicken to steak.
- Simple pantry ingredients: No fancy tricks or hard-to-find ingredients are needed to whip up a bowlful of pure comfort—just a handful of basics, elevated with clever seasoning.
- Family-friendly and customizable: Whether you love it a little spicy or completely mild, this seasoned rice can be adjusted to suit every palate at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a short list of classic ingredients, when used thoughtfully, can create the rich flavor of Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice. Each element is there for a reason, building layers of taste and color you’ll crave again and again!
- Butter: Real butter gives the rice its signature creamy richness and that irresistible golden hue.
- Long-grain white rice: Choose a classic long-grain variety for tender, fluffy grains that won’t get sticky.
- Small white onion, diced: Sautéed onion infuses every bite with subtle sweetness and depth.
- Paprika: This spice adds that inviting rusty-red color along with a gentle smokiness.
- Dried parsley: For herbaceous freshness and a beautiful pop of green throughout the dish.
- Garlic powder: A pantry hero, lending savory warmth that perfectly complements the other spices.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Add them for a touch of heat, or skip for a milder take.
- Chicken broth: Cooking the rice in broth (instead of water) dials up the flavor big-time!
Variations
One of the best things about Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice is how easy it is to tweak to suit your cravings or what’s in your pantry. Don’t be afraid to put your spin on this crowd-pleasing favorite—get creative with add-ins, swaps, and spice levels!
- Make it vegetarian: Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep all the flavor with none of the meat.
- Spice it up: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you love some heat!
- Add veggies: Stir in peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and crunch.
- Switch the grain: Try basmati or brown rice for a wholesome twist, just note you may need to adjust liquid and cook time.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Step 1: Toast the Rice in Butter
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté, stirring gently, until the grains turn a toasty golden brown—this step brings out a subtle nuttiness that puts plain rice to shame!
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices
Stir in the diced onion, paprika, parsley, garlic powder, and (if you love a little heat) the red pepper flakes. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma as the spices bloom in the buttery rice.
Step 3: Simmer in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, give everything a good mix, and bring it all to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 22–25 minutes, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice is ultra-tender.
Step 4: Steam and Fluff
Turn off the heat, but don’t peek! Let the rice sit covered for another 5 minutes—this allows the steam to finish cooking the grains perfectly. Finally, uncover and fluff the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice gently with a fork. Serve warm and bask in the compliments!
Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
- Golden Rice, Guaranteed: Don’t rush the toasting step—the more evenly you brown the rice in butter, the richer the flavor and deeper the color.
- Broth Boost: Use a high-quality or homemade chicken broth for the most authentic, savory depth—low-sodium works well and lets you control the salt.
- No Peeking Policy: When it’s time to steam, keep the lid sealed tight and resist the temptation to stir! Steam works magic in the final moments.
- Fluff Like a Pro: Always fluff gently with a fork instead of stirring with a spoon to keep the rice light, loose, and restaurant-worthy.
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Garnishes
A shower of fresh chopped parsley or green onions makes the seasoned rice look vibrant and inviting—plus, it adds an extra layer of herby freshness. Try a sprinkle of grated parmesan or a squeeze of lemon to liven it up even more!
Side Dishes
This Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice is the ultimate companion for hearty mains: pile it next to juicy grilled steaks, roasted chicken, smoky BBQ, or any dish that sings with a flavorful, fluffy rice base.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, pack the freshly cooked rice into ramekins or small bowls, then invert onto plates for a neat mound. Or use it as a base for grazing platters and “build your own bowl” bars—everyone loves a DIY side!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. Let the rice cool fully before storing, and fluff it again when you’re ready to reheat for best results.
Freezing
This rice freezes beautifully! Spread it out on a tray to cool completely, then portion into freezer bags or containers. It will keep its texture and flavor for up to two months.
Reheating
For perfect reheating, sprinkle the rice with a little bit of water, cover, and microwave gently—or warm it on the stovetop in a nonstick pan. Fluff with a fork to restore that just-cooked lightness.
FAQs
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Do I have to rinse the rice before cooking?
Yes, rinsing long-grain rice removes excess starch and helps achieve those fluffy, separated grains that make Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice so irresistible. Just give it a quick rinse in a sieve under cool water until the water runs mostly clear.
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Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well but requires more liquid and a longer cook time—plan for an extra 15-20 minutes simmering. The flavor will be a little nuttier and heartier, but still delicious.
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Is it possible to make this rice dairy-free or vegan?
Yes—swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The rice will still be packed with flavor and every bit as comforting.
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What can I do if my rice is too soft or mushy?
If your Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice turns out a bit soft, it may have had slightly too much liquid or cooked a touch too long. Fluff it with a fork, spread it out to steam off extra moisture, and remember to keep a close eye on it next time—it’ll still taste amazing!
Final Thoughts
Nothing brings a meal together quite like a scoop of Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice, and now you can treat yourself to those famous flavors any day of the week. Give this easy recipe a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly it becomes your new favorite side, loved by everyone at the table!
Print
Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Texan
Description
Enjoy the flavors of Texas Roadhouse in your own kitchen with this seasoned rice recipe. Perfectly cooked rice with a savory blend of herbs and spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 Small White Onion, diced
- 1 Tbsp Paprika
- 2 Tbsp Dried Parsley
- 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
Main Ingredients:
Seasoning:
Liquid:
Instructions
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add and brown rice: Add the rice and cook until browned, about 4-6 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: Add the onion, paprika, parsley, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Add chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth, mix, and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 22-25 minutes until most liquid is absorbed. Let sit for 5 minutes off the heat.
- Fluff and serve: Uncover, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
