Introduction
Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe 2026 is one of those simple side dishes that quietly steal the spotlight.
» As a chef, I can tell you—this rice looks basic, but the flavor is anything but ordinary. I’ve cooked in professional kitchens for years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: great food doesn’t need to be complicated.
» The first time I tasted the seasoned rice at Outback Steakhouse, I smiled. Why? Because it reminded me of classic kitchen wisdom—use the right seasoning, treat rice with respect, and let simple ingredients shine.
It’s the kind of rice that makes you scoop “just a little more” onto your plate. Whether you’re serving steak, chicken, or veggies, this copycat recipe brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your home kitchen—no fancy tools required! And the best part? You can make it at home—no reservations required!
So, let’s get started!
👉 What Is Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice?
Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice is a savory side dish served alongside grilled meats and hearty meals.
» It’s made with long-grain white rice
» Cooked in flavorful chicken broth
» Seasoned with a blend of warm spices
» Finished with a touch of butter for richness
👨🍳 Chef insight:
This rice is not spicy, not bland—just perfectly balanced. It’s designed to support the main dish, not overpower it.
👉 Why You’ll Love This Seasoned Rice Recipe 2026
As a chef, I love quick homemade recipes that deliver big flavor without stress—and this one checks all the boxes.
» Restaurant-style taste at home – Just like Outback, but fresher
» Simple pantry ingredients – No hard-to-find items
» Beginner-friendly – Perfect even if you’re new to cooking
» Pairs with everything – Steak, chicken, veggies, or seafood
» Budget-friendly side dish – Feeds a family without extra cost
» Make-ahead friendly – Great for meal prep
This rice proves you don’t need fancy techniques to cook like a pro.
👉 Kitchen Tools For Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
You don’t need special tools—just the basics most kitchens already have.
» Medium saucepan with lid
» Wooden spoon or spatula
» Measuring cups and spoons
» Fork (for fluffing rice)
» Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
👨🍳 Chef tip:
A heavy-bottom pot helps cook rice evenly and prevents burning.
Ingredients for Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
These quantities are perfectly balanced for 4 servings, just like a steakhouse portion.
👉 Main Ingredients
♥ 1 cup long-grain white rice
♥ 2 cups chicken broth
♥ 2 tablespoons butter
👉 Seasonings Spices
♥ 1 teaspoon paprika
♥ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
♥ 1 teaspoon onion powder
♥ ½ teaspoon salt
♥ ¼ teaspoon black pepper
👨🍳 Chef tip:
This seasoning ratio is key. Too much spice can overpower the rice, while this balance lets every grain soak up flavor—exactly how restaurant rice is made.
⭐ Recipes You May Also Like!
» Olive Garden Broccoli Recipe
» Longhorn Steakhouse Lamb Chops
» Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters Recipe
» Yard House Maui Pineapple Chicken Recipe
How to Cook Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice at Home
» As a chef, I always say rice deserves just as much care as the main dish. This Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe 2026 may look simple, but the method is what brings out that rich, savory flavor. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll get fluffy, restaurant-style rice every time.
👉 Step 1: Rinse the Rice (Don’t Skip)
♥ Start by rinsing the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water looks mostly clear.
♥ Rinsing removes excess starch, which helps prevent sticky or gummy rice. Steakhouse rice should be fluffy, not clumpy.
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Use a fine mesh strainer and gently swirl the rice with your fingers.
👉 Step 2: Toast the Rice in Butter
♥ First, take a saucepan and melt the butter on a medium flame. Add the rinsed, drained rice and stir for 1–2 minutes.
♥ Toasting coats each grain in fat, adds a light nutty flavor, and keeps the rice separate after cooking.
👨🍳 Chef tip:
You’re not browning the rice—just warming it and waking up its flavor.
👉 Step 3: Add the Seasonings
♥ Now, gently sprinkle the following spices on the rice such as garlic and onion powder, paprika, salt & black pepper.
♥ Stir well so every grain is evenly coated.
♥ Seasoning early allows the rice to absorb flavor as it cooks instead of tasting bland in the center.
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Smell the pot—when the spices become fragrant, you’re doing it right.
👉 Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Broth
♥ Carefully add the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.
♥ Using broth instead of water is one of the biggest secrets behind Outback’s rich, savory rice flavor.
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Use warm broth if possible—it helps the rice cook evenly.
👉 Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow
Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the rice simmer for 15–18 minutes.
Important rules:
♥ Do not stir
♥ Do not lift the lid
♥ Let the steam do its job
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Peeking releases steam and can ruin the texture.
👉 Step 6: Let the Rice Rest
♥ Turn off the heat and keep the lid on for 5 minutes.
♥ Resting allows the moisture to redistribute and finishes cooking the rice gently.
👨🍳 Chef tip:
This step is what separates home-style rice from restaurant-quality rice.
👉 Step 7: Fluff, Serve, and Enjoy!
♥ Now, you can gently open the lid and fluff the rice with the help of a fork—not a spoon.
♥ Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve warm alongside steak, chicken, or vegetables.
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Fluffing releases excess steam and keeps the rice light and airy.
⭐ Extra Chef Tips for Perfect Results
» Measure liquid carefully—too much makes rice mushy
» Always cook on low heat after boiling
» Add a tiny pat of butter before serving for shine
» For extra color, sprinkle a pinch of paprika on top
Ingredient Substitutes For Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice
| Original Ingredient | Substitute Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | Basmati rice | Light and fluffy texture |
| Chicken broth | Vegetable broth | Keeps it vegetarian |
| Butter | Olive oil | Dairy-free option |
| Paprika | Smoked paprika | Adds deeper flavor |
| Garlic powder | Fresh minced garlic | Use sparingly |
| Onion powder | Finely chopped onion | Sauté before adding rice |
👉 Healthy Ingredient Swaps
Want to make this recipe lighter or cleaner? Try these chef-approved swaps:
» Use brown rice for extra fiber
» Replace butter with olive oil
» Reduce salt and rely on herbs
» Add chopped parsley for freshness
» Mix in steamed veggies like carrots or peas
👨🍳 Chef note:
Healthy doesn’t mean bland—balance is the key.
👉 Recipe Variations You Can Try!
There are some common recipe variations you can try in your kitchen for creative fun.
» Spicy – Try chili flakes & cayenne
» Garlic Butter Rice – Extra garlic + butter
» Cheesy Rice – Stir in parmesan at the end
» Veggie Rice – Add sautéed peppers and onions
» Chicken Rice – Stir in shredded grilled chicken
Pro Tips for Authentic Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Flavor
Want your rice to taste just like Outback’s? These tips make the difference:
» Use broth, not water
» Toast the rice before cooking
» Don’t lift the lid while it simmers
» Taste and adjust salt at the end
» Finish with a tiny pat of butter
👨🍳 Chef secret:
Restaurants season in layers—don’t dump everything at once and walk away.
👉 Garnish & Presentation Tips
Presentation makes simple food feel special.
» Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro
» Add a squeeze of lemon juice
» Finish with a tiny butter swirl
» Light dusting of paprika on top
» Serve in a shallow bowl for a steakhouse look
👨🍳 Chef trick:
Warm bowls keep rice fluffy longer.
👉 Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
» Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days for best use
» Reheat with a splash of broth or water
» Microwave covered for the best texture
» Freeze up to 2 months
👨🍳 Chef note:
Rice dries out fast—moisture is your best friend when reheating.
What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice
This rice pairs beautifully with:
» Grilled steak or ribeye
» Pan-seared fish
» Roasted vegetables
» Simple green salads
» BBQ chicken or grilled thighs
Leftovers? Turn it into:
» Rice bowls
» Stuffed peppers
» Quick lunch meal prep
Best Alternate Seasoned Rice Recipes You Must Try
If you love this Outback-inspired rice, try these next:
» Vegetable Pilaf
» Garlic Butter Rice
» Lemon Herb Rice
» Cheesy Parmesan Rice
» Mexican Restaurant Rice
» Texas Roadhouse Butter Rice
Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Nutrition Facts
Approximate values per 1 serving (1 cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg |
👨🍳 Chef note: Values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.
Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First, rinse the rice perfectly until you get the clean rice.
- On medium flame, melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the rice rest for 5 minutes.
- Fluff gently with a fork and serve warm.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- Olive oil can replace butter if needed
- Avoid stirring while cooking to keep rice fluffy
- Garnish with fresh lemon juice before serving
- Keep the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is seasoned rice spicy?
Seasoned rice is usually not spicy. It focuses more on savory and warm flavors from garlic, onion, and paprika. As a chef, I’d describe it as comforting and mild, making it suitable for all ages and taste preferences.
What seasoning is in seasoned rice?
Seasoned rice usually includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Some recipes also use chicken broth and butter, which deepen the flavor and give rice that warm, savory, restaurant-style taste.
Can seasoned rice be made vegetarian?
Yes, seasoned rice can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The spices still provide plenty of flavor, and you won’t miss the meat-based ingredients at all.
Can I use brown rice for seasoned rice?
You can use brown rice, but it needs more liquid and a longer cooking time. The flavor stays great, but the texture becomes slightly nuttier and firmer compared to traditional long-grain white rice.
What seasoning makes rice taste better?
Rice tastes better when seasoned with broth, along with garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of butter. As a chef, I’ve learned that seasoning early lets the rice absorb flavor while it cooks.
What protein pairs best with seasoned rice?
Seasoned rice pairs best with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pan-seared fish. Its savory flavor complements proteins without overpowering them, making it a perfect steakhouse-style side dish.
How do you keep seasoned rice from getting mushy?
To prevent mushy rice, always measure liquids carefully and avoid stirring while it cooks. As a chef, I also recommend letting the rice rest after cooking so excess moisture can settle properly.
Why does restaurant rice taste better than homemade rice?
Restaurant rice tastes better because chefs season in layers and cook rice in broth, not water. They also allow proper resting time, which helps the rice absorb flavor and achieve that fluffy, well-balanced texture.
Is Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice spicy?
No. It’s mild, warm, and savory.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use brown rice?
You can, but cooking time and liquid will change.
Is this a true copycat recipe?
Flavor-wise—very close. Texture and balance are spot on.
My Final Conclusion
As a chef, I truly believe this Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe 2026 is proof that simple food can be unforgettable. I’ve made this rice for family dinners, backyard cookouts, and even busy weeknights—and it never disappoints.
When you cook it, take your time, enjoy the process, and trust your instincts. If you try this recipe, save it, share it, and, most of all, make it your own. That’s what real cooking is all about.
Finally, if you have any thoughts or suggestions, then write to us in the comment section below! – I’d love to hear from you! till then..
Happy cooking!
👨🍳 Chef-style comfort, right at home
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