20 Easy Rice Recipes Perfect for Weeknight Meals

Rice is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, and this roundup shows just how delicious it can be. From hearty casseroles and savory bowls to sweet treats and crispy snacks, these recipes make rice the star of every meal. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners, gluten-free options, or creative ways to use rice in desserts, this collection has something for everyone. Get ready to transform simple grains into flavorful, satisfying dishes your whole family will enjoy.

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

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This pilaf combines nutty wild rice with roasted butternut squash. The textures balance soft, tender squash with chewy rice. Herbs and seasoning enhance the earthy flavors. It works well as a side or a vegetarian main.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Best Rice Flour Recipe for Gluten-Free Cooking

A metal measuring cup filled with white flour is surrounded by spilled flour, a wooden bowl, a jar of flour, a wooden spoon, and white measuring spoons on a white surface. — Best Rice Flour Recipe for Gluten-Free Cooking. Photo credit: Veggie Chopsticks.

Rice flour is the foundation for versatile gluten-free recipes. It can be used in baking, thickening, or frying. The texture is light and adaptable. It helps create tender, flavorful dishes without wheat.
Get the Recipe: Best Rice Flour Recipe for Gluten-Free Cooking

Proper Oven Baked Rice Pudding

A close-up of baked rice pudding with a golden, caramelized top, partially scooped with a metal spoon in a baking dish. — Proper Oven Baked Rice Pudding. Photo credit: Rachel Phipps.

Creamy rice pudding is baked slowly in the oven. The grains absorb milk and flavorings for a soft, rich texture. Cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and aroma. Each spoonful is indulgent and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Proper Oven Baked Rice Pudding

Pork Chop and Rice Casserole

Tender pork chops bake over a flavorful rice base. The rice absorbs juices and seasoning from the meat. The dish comes together in one pan. It is hearty and satisfying for family meals.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chop and Rice Casserole

Firecracker Rice Krispie Treat Pops

Rice Krispies are transformed into fun, handheld pops with colorful sprinkles or drizzles. Each bite is crisp, sweet, and playful. The pops are easy to make and festive. They are perfect for parties or snacks.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Rice Krispie Treat Pops

Rice Paper Dumplings

Delicate rice paper wraps hold savory fillings like vegetables, meat, or shrimp. The texture is soft yet slightly chewy. They can be steamed or lightly fried. Each bite offers a combination of flavor and tenderness.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Dumplings

Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispies combine with strawberries for a fruity twist. The texture remains crisp while adding bursts of flavor. Sweetness is balanced naturally by the fruit. They are colorful and fun to serve.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

Taco Rice Skillet

This one-pan meal layers rice with taco-seasoned meat and vegetables. Cheese and toppings melt into the hot skillet. Each bite is hearty and packed with flavor. It is a quick weeknight dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispies are coated in peanut butter and marshmallows for a rich, nutty flavor. The texture is crisp yet sticky in the best way. Each bite is satisfying and sweet. They are perfect for easy snacks.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

A shallow white bowl filled with cooked white rice garnished with herbs, placed on a light-colored surface next to a beige cloth. — Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Basmati rice is lightly flavored with cumin seeds and aromatics. The grains stay fluffy while picking up subtle spice. It works well as a side for curries or grilled meats. Each bite is fragrant and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

Crock Pot Chicken Wild Rice soup – Slow Cooker

Chicken and wild rice simmer slowly in a creamy broth. The rice absorbs flavor as it cooks. Tender chicken pieces and herbs add depth. It is warming, hearty, and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Wild Rice soup – Slow Cooker

Coconut Ginger Rice with Spicy Turkish Roasted Chickpeas & Garlic Yogurt Drizzle

Fluffy rice is infused with coconut and ginger for a fragrant base. Spicy roasted chickpeas add crunch and heat. A garlic yogurt drizzle brings cooling balance. The dish combines textures and bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ginger Rice with Spicy Turkish Roasted Chickpeas & Garlic Yogurt Drizzle

Rice Krispie Turkey Legs

A plate of chocolate crispy rice treats shaped like turkey drumsticks with mini marshmallows at the ends, surrounded by more marshmallows and a glass of milk. — Rice Krispie Turkey Legs. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

These treats mimic turkey legs using Rice Krispies, chocolate, and candy coatings. They are fun, whimsical, and festive. Each “leg” has a crunchy and sweet texture. They are ideal for themed parties or holidays.
Get the Recipe: Rice Krispie Turkey Legs

How to Rice Cauliflower

Cauliflower is chopped or pulsed into rice-sized pieces. It cooks quickly and soaks up flavor easily. It works as a low-carb substitute or a side dish. Each bite is light and versatile.
Get the Recipe: How to Rice Cauliflower

Spicy Beef and Red Pepper Rice Bowl

Rice forms the base for spicy beef and sweet red peppers. The sauce clings to the rice for full flavor in each bite. Quick cooking keeps vegetables crisp. It is filling and bold.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef and Red Pepper Rice Bowl

Italian Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Ground beef and Italian seasonings mix with cauliflower “rice.” The skillet method cooks everything evenly. The flavors meld together in one pan. Each bite is hearty and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Italian Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

4th of July Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispies are layered or colored for a festive look. Sweet marshmallows hold the shape together. The treats are crisp, colorful, and playful. They are ideal for celebrations or dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: 4th of July Rice Krispie Treats

Turkey And Rice Casserole

Turkey and rice bake together with savory seasonings. The rice absorbs juices and flavors from the meat. It is hearty, comforting, and easy to serve. Each scoop is satisfying and filling.
Get the Recipe: Turkey And Rice Casserole

Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings

Rice paper dumplings crisp in the air fryer while keeping the inside tender. The cooking method is faster than steaming or frying. The fillings stay flavorful and moist. Each bite is crisp, savory, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings

Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito

Rice and beans are wrapped with melted cheese in a tortilla. The filling is hearty and flavorful. Each bite combines soft rice, creamy beans, and gooey cheese. It is easy to make and perfect for quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito