Hearty Rice Recipes to Keep on Your Weekly Menu

Rice is a staple in kitchens around the world, and its versatility makes it perfect for creating a wide variety of flavorful dishes. From simple casseroles to aromatic pilafs and savory fried rice, these rice recipes are packed with flavor and easy to make.

Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, rice can be the foundation for countless meals. These recipes take the humble grain to the next level with bold seasonings, fresh herbs, and creative add-ins.

Add rice recipes to your meal plan and watch how easy dinner comes together. And how fast they come to the table for dinner.

Instant Pot Spanish Rice and Pork Chops

This Instant Pot recipe combines tender pork chops with flavorful Spanish rice for an easy weeknight meal. The rice is infused with spices and tomatoes, creating a savory base that perfectly complements the juicy pork. It’s a one-pot dish that saves time without skimping on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spanish Rice and Pork Chops

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

This dish brings together nutty wild rice with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. It’s a hearty, wholesome option that works well as a side or a standalone meal. The mix of textures and fall-inspired flavors makes it a cozy choice for colder months.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Middle eastern tofu rice bowl

This tofu rice bowl is loaded with Middle Eastern-inspired spices and fresh herbs, creating a balanced and vibrant meal. The tofu absorbs the rich flavors while the rice adds a comforting base. It’s a great plant-based option that’s both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Middle eastern tofu rice bowl

Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice is a quick, satisfying dish that makes use of leftover ham in the most delicious way. The rice is lightly fried with ham, eggs, and vegetables, offering a savory meal that comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual lunch.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice is a hearty twist on the classic, featuring tender, smoky brisket mixed with fried rice. The rich beef flavor blends well with the stir-fried vegetables and rice, making it a comfort dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

One Pot Cajun Rice Casserole

This Cajun-inspired casserole is packed with spicy sausage, tender rice, and bold seasonings all cooked in one pot. It’s an easy meal with a kick of flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Plus, the one-pot method means cleanup is a breeze.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Cajun Rice Casserole

One Pan Fajita Rice Casserole

This fajita rice casserole brings the vibrant flavors of fajitas into a simple, one-pan dish. With seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and onions combined with rice, it’s a complete meal that’s perfect for family dinners. The whole dish comes together in under an hour, making it a great weeknight option.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Fajita Rice Casserole

Cajun Seafood Rice Casserole

Loaded with shrimp and other seafood, this Cajun rice casserole offers a taste of the sea with a spicy twist. The rice absorbs all the bold flavors, while the seafood stays tender and juicy. It’s a satisfying dish for seafood lovers looking for something easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Seafood Rice Casserole

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro and lime bring a burst of fresh flavor to this chicken and rice dish. The chicken is seasoned with a simple but flavorful marinade, while the rice cooks with hints of lime. It’s a zesty and bright meal that’s both refreshing and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Chicken Fried Rice

This classic chicken fried rice is a go-to dish for quick meals. With tender chicken, scrambled eggs, and mixed vegetables, it’s a complete and satisfying meal. The fried rice is lightly seasoned, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Creamy Mushroom Soup

This creamy mushroom soup is rich, smooth, and full of earthy flavors. The mushrooms are cooked to perfection and blended into a velvety soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Soup

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

This Thai-inspired dish features pork and green beans cooked to perfection on a Blackstone griddle. The pork is tender, while the green beans provide a satisfying crunch. With a mix of Thai seasonings, this meal is full of bold flavors and comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice

Recreate the famous Longhorn Steakhouse rice at home with this flavorful recipe. It’s a savory, well-seasoned side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or vegetables. The rice is cooked with just the right amount of seasoning, giving you a restaurant-quality dish without the price.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice

Italian Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

This skillet meal combines seasoned beef with cauliflower rice for a lighter twist on a classic. The cauliflower rice absorbs the rich, Italian-style flavors, while the beef adds heartiness to the dish. It’s a low-carb option that doesn’t sacrifice on taste.
Get the Recipe: Italian Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

These Hawaiian meatballs are sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to make in the Instant Pot. Pineapple and a flavorful sauce coat the tender meatballs, making this a crowd-pleasing dish. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet, great for family dinners or parties.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs