Easy, Fluffy, and Flavorful Homemade Rice Pilaf Recipe

Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.

Add the long-grain rice and optional orzo to the saucepan. Stir constantly and toast the grains for 3 to 5 minutes until they smell nutty and look slightly golden. This step is key for fluffy rice.

Pour in the broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir once to combine.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting.

Cover the saucepan tightly and simmer without lifting the lid for 15 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not peek!

Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This pairs wonderfully with your weekly meal planning efforts, or as a side when you skip the best meal delivery services.