One-Pan Baked Rice and Vegetables is a simple, comforting dish that delivers a complete meal in one baking dish. Because the rice cooks beneath a generous layer of seasoned vegetables, the result is tender, fluffy grains infused with broth while the vegetables roast into caramelized perfection. This effortless method appeals to busy home cooks who want a satisfying dinner without using multiple pans or complicated steps.
My love for this recipe started during a hectic season when I needed meals that practically cooked themselves. One night, after throwing leftover vegetables over rice and broth, I walked away hoping for the best. When I pulled the dish from the oven, the fragrance made me pause. The rice had absorbed every drop of flavor, and the vegetables softened with crisp edges. That accidental creation quickly became a staple—easy, adaptable, and consistently nourishing. Over time, it turned into the version you’ll find below, refined but still wonderfully simple.
Building Flavor from the Base Up
The Power of Broth and Aromatics
One-Pan Baked Rice and Vegetables begins with jasmine rice, aromatic garlic, carrots, and rich broth. When the rice bakes under foil, it absorbs every flavor without losing moisture. The butter melts into the grains, creating a delicate richness that balances the hearty vegetables added later. This layered preparation ensures that every bite tastes flavorful from bottom to top.
Gentle Steaming for Perfect Texture
Because the rice cooks first under foil, it steams evenly and remains tender. Once the foil is removed and vegetables are added, the dish transitions into dry heat. The vegetables roast while the rice finishes cooking. This two-stage technique ensures that the rice stays fluffy while the vegetables gain color and depth. It’s a seamless process that brings out the best in each component.
Vegetables That Shine in the Oven
A Rainbow of Flavor
This recipe showcases vibrant red onion, bell pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini. One-Pan Baked Rice and Vegetables thrives on variety, allowing each vegetable to contribute texture and sweetness. As they roast, the edges caramelize, creating a contrast to the soft rice underneath. The combination is balanced, colorful, and deeply satisfying without requiring extra sauces.
Seasoning for Depth
The seasoning mix—paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper—creates a warm herbal profile. Tossing the vegetables in olive oil and this mix ensures even coating and maximum flavor. As the vegetables roast, the seasoning toasts lightly, adding richness and gentle smokiness. Even with simple pantry spices, the result tastes surprisingly layered.
A One-Pan Method for Busy Days
Easy Preparation from Start to Finish
One-Pan Baked Rice and Vegetables keeps prep minimal. Because everything cooks in a baking dish, cleanup stays quick. You mix the rice directly in the dish, top it with seasoned vegetables halfway through, and return it to the oven. No sautéing, no boiling, and no extra pots. For weeknights or simplified meal planning, this workflow helps you get dinner on the table with less effort.
Reliable Results Every Time
This method is forgiving. If your vegetables vary in size or type, the dish still cooks evenly. The rice stays protected during the initial bake, and the high heat during the final bake gives vegetables the perfect texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meals for the week, it creates consistent results without stress.
How to Customize Your One-Pan Dish
Swap in Seasonal Produce
One-Pan Baked Rice and Vegetables adapts beautifully to nearly any vegetable. Use asparagus in spring, tomatoes and corn in summer, or squash in fall. Because the seasoning mix pairs well with many flavors, you can change the vegetables without modifying the method. This flexibility keeps the recipe fresh and interesting year-round.
Add Protein for a Complete Meal
If you want extra protein, add chickpeas, white beans, cubed cooked chicken, or sliced sausage during the second baking stage. The vegetables will roast while the protein warms through. This one-pan approach allows effortless customization without altering the core technique.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing Bowl
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 head cauliflower, in florets
- 1/2 head broccoli, in florets
- 2 zucchini, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- In the baking dish, combine rice, broth, water, garlic, sliced carrots, butter, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of the seasoning mix. Stir well and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
- While rice bakes, toss onion, bell pepper, cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, and olive oil with remaining seasoning mix.
- Remove rice from oven, increase heat to 425°F, and arrange vegetables over the rice. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and mix with vegetables before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, but increase liquid and bake time since brown rice cooks slower.
Can frozen vegetables replace fresh ones?
Yes. Thaw and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
What if the rice isn’t fully cooked?
Cover with foil, add 2–3 tablespoons of water, and bake 10 more minutes.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter in the rice mixture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
Conclusion
One-Pan Baked Rice and Vegetables is a dependable, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum comfort. With simple ingredients, vibrant vegetables, and a no-fuss cooking method, this recipe brings satisfaction to busy evenings and slow weekends alike. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with seasonal produce and added protein, it remains a wholesome and versatile staple worth repeating.
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