How To Cook Rice In The Oven Like a Pro

Overhead shot of oven cooked fluffy rice.

How To Cook Rice In The Oven Like a Pro

This Oven Baked Rice cooks completely hands off in the oven. The grains come out fluffy and separate every time, making it an easy side dish that pairs with just about anything.

Course Side Dish, Sides

Cuisine American, International

Keyword baking dish, brown rice, cook rice, cook time, dry rice, jasmine, jasmine rice, kind of ricekind of rice, make rice, rice cooker, rice in the oven, rice recipe, type of rice, white rice

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Servings Servings

Calories 81kcal

Author Zuzana Paar

Equipment

1 Wooden Spatula
1 Cooking Pot
1 Strainer
1 Oven
1 Bowl

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons EVO Oil
1 teaspoon Salt
1 Cup Rice
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 1/2 Cups Water

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°Fahrenheit (180°Celsius). Have a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with lid ready.
Rinse rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until water runs clear. Drain completely.
Heat oil in pot over medium heat, add rice, and toast for a few minutes until golden and fragrant.
Add water, salt, and pepper, stir once, then cover tightly with lid.
Bake for 17–20 minutes, let rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Notes

Use the Right Rice-to-Water Ratio: For most white rice, use 1 cup of rice to 1 ½ cups of water. This keeps the rice fluffy and not too dry or soggy.
Cover Tightly While Baking: Use a lid or foil to trap the steam inside. This helps the rice cook evenly without drying out.
Add Seasoning Before Cooking: Mix in a pinch of salt, butter, or spices before baking. This way, the flavors soak into every grain.
Let It Rest After Baking: Leave the rice covered for 5–10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This lets the steam finish the cooking and makes it fluffier.

Nutrition