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Best Longhorn Steakhouse rice pilaf copycat recipe

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Longhorn Steakhouse Rice Pilaf Recipe – fluffy, steaming rice full of buttery and aromatic rich flavors. Longhorn Steakhouse rice is a wonderful and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any meal. Featuring flavorful, rich, buttery fluffy rice that the whole family will love! The rice is cooked with a delicious blend of seasonings, herbs and spices that create a delicious and aromatic flavor. The combination of flavors in the rice makes it a great complement to any main dish, such as vegan portobello steak or vegan tofu chicken. It’s a next level Longhorn steakhouse copycat recipe that’s a delicious side dish and a good option for jazzing up your everyday rice. 

The texture of Longhorn Steakhouse rice is also something to write home about. It has a fluffy and light texture that is easy to eat and very satisfying. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to other carb-heavy sides, so you can feel good about indulging in this delicious dish.

Overall, Longhorn Steakhouse rice is a standout dish that is tasty, healthy, and versatile. It’s a great addition to any meal and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Why you’re going to want to make this tasty Longhorn Steakhouse rice pilaf on repeat!

There are so many great things about rice pilaf that make it a favorite dish for many people. Here are some of the best things about rice pilaf:

1. Flavorful: Rice pilaf is usually made with fragrant herbs and spices, such as saffron, cumin, and turmeric, which give it a delicious and unique flavor. Plus, when cooked with broth, it absorbs all of the flavors and becomes even more delicious. It’s one of the most popular side dishes for plant based pan-seared steak and makes a delicious meal everyone will love.

2. Versatile: Rice pilaf can be made with different types of rice and can be customized with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits. This makes it a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

3. Nutritious: Rice pilaf is a great source of carbohydrates and can provide a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, depending on the ingredients used. It can also be made with lean protein, such as chicken or fish, to make it a complete meal.

Plus…

4. Easy to make: While it may sound fancy, rice pilaf is actually quite easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a delicious and impressive dish that is sure to impress your friends and family.

5. Aroma: There’s nothing quite like the heavenly aroma of rice pilaf cooking on the stovetop. It fills the kitchen with a warm and inviting scent that is sure to make your mouth water and satisfy your taste buds.

6. Comforting: Rice pilaf is a comfort food that can bring back fond memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. It’s a great flavor dish that is often associated with love and warmth.

7. Affordable: Rice pilaf is an affordable dish that can be made with simple, inexpensive ingredients. It’s a great option for those who want to eat well without breaking the bank.

8. Leftovers: Rice pilaf makes great leftovers that can be reheated for a quick and easy meal throughout the week. It’s a dish that gets even better with time, as the flavors meld together.

Overall, rice pilaf is a delicious, comforting, and versatile dish that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or like to experiment with new flavors and ingredients, rice pilaf is definitely worth trying!

In this easy and delicious Longhorn steakhouse rice recipe we’re covering

Tips and tricks for making the best longhorn steakhouse rice

Sure! Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best Longhorn Steakhouse rice:

1. Rinse the rice before cooking: Rinse the rice for a couple of times until the water runs clear. It will remove excess starch and prevent the rice from sticking together.

2. Use the correct rice-to-water ratio: To get fluffy rice, use one and a half cups of water for every cup of dry white rice. However, the ratio may vary depending on the type of rice you are using.

3. Use a heavy-bottomed pan: A heavy-bottomed pan will distribute the heat evenly and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

4. Don’t lift the lid while the rice is cooking: Lifting the lid will release the steam and affect the cooking time, resulting in unevenly cooked rice.

5. Let the rice rest after cooking: Once the rice is cooked, take it off the heat and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the steam to distribute evenly. Then, fluff it with a fork before serving.

6. Use high-quality ingredients: Longhorn Steakhouse rice calls for broth, butter, and white rice. Using high-quality vegetable broth and butter will make the rice more flavorful and make the rice pilaf the star of the show.

7. Add herbs and spices: To give Longhorn Steakhouse main ingredient plain rice an extra boost of flavor, you can add herbs and spices like garlic powder or fresh garlic, onion powder, bay leaf or thyme. You can also give the rice spicy flavors by adding half a teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Bonus tips

8. Sauté the rice before cooking: Sautéing the rice in butter or oil before adding water helps to toast the grains and enhance the flavor. Just melt butter in a large skillet with the seasonings and pan fry the dry rice for a few minutes. Then add the vegetable stock and cook the rice as instructed on the recipe card.

9. Use the right type of rice: Longhorn Steakhouse uses long-grain white rice, but you can use other types of rice like basmati or jasmine for a more aromatic variation.

10. Customize to your preference: You can customize the Longhorn Steakhouse rice to your preference by adding vegetables like peas, steamed asparagus, fresh steamed broccoli, steamed carrots, or red bell pepper, leftover brussel sprouts, or by using different types of broth like vegetable broth.

Here is Longhorn Steakhouse’s recipe for their famous rice.

In my delicious longhorn rice pilaf copycat I’m using only plant based ingredients. You can use ingredients to your personal dietary preferences as I’ve included both the original ingredients as well as my vegan substitutes.

Longhorn Steakhouse rice pilaf Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of long-grain rice
  • 4 cups of vegetable broth (original recipe uses chicken broth)
  • 1/4 cup of plant butter or vegetable oil like olive oil or avocado oil (original recipe uses regular unsalted butter)
  • 1/4 cup of diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup of diced green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of paprika

How to make authentic Longhorn Steakhouse rice Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

4. Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.

5. Pour in the vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.

7. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.

8. Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes.

9. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

And that’s it! You’ll have delicious Longhorn Steakhouse-style rice in no time. Enjoy! 

Best rice to make Longhorn Steakhouse Rice Pilaf

Longhorn Steakhouse typically uses long-grain white rice to make their signature rice dish. However, you can also use other types of rice like basmati or jasmine for a more aromatic variation, or even brown rice for  a healthy version of the restaurant recipe.

How to cook long grain rice to perfection

Cooking long grain rice to perfection is easy! And probably a lot easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe for you:

Long grain rice cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of long grain rice
  • 2 cups of water
  • Salt (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional)

Easy Steps to make perfect fluffy steaming rice:

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This will remove any excess starch and ensure that the rice cooks evenly.

2. In a medium-sized pot, add 2 cups of water, salt, and olive oil (if using) and bring it to a boil.

3. Once the water is boiling, add the rice and give it a quick stir.

4. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

5. Let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.

6. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the rice to absorb any excess moisture and become fluffier.

7. After the 5-10 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

And voila! You now have perfectly cooked long grain rice. Enjoy!

Can I make Longhorn steakhouse rice with leftover rice

Yes, you can definitely make Longhorn Steakhouse rice with leftover rice. Here’s a recipe for you:

Longhorns rice pilaf Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of leftover long grain rice
  • 1/4 cup of diced onions
  • 1/4 cup of diced green bell peppers
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable broth (original recipe uses chicken broth)
  • 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan cheese) optional garnish 

Easy Steps to make Longhorn rice from leftover rice

1. In a large pan or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the onions and green bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.

3. Add the leftover rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.

4. Season the rice with salt and black pepper and stir.

5. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir again.

6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the rice cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth is absorbed and the rice is heated through. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

And that’s it! You’ll have delicious Longhorn Steakhouse-style rice in no time. Enjoy!

The best vegetable oil to replace butter

When it comes to replacing butter with vegetable oil, there are several options that can work well depending on the recipe. Here are some of the best vegetable oils to use as butter substitutes:

Avocado oil : Using avocado oil in rice pilaf has several benefits. Avocado oil is a healthy oil that is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Here are some other benefits of using avocado oil in rice pilaf:

1. High smoke point: Avocado oil has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down and producing harmful compounds. This makes it a great oil to use for sautéing and frying.

2. Neutral flavor: Avocado oil has a mild, neutral flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients in the rice pilaf. This makes it a versatile oil that can be used in a variety of dishes.

3. Nutrient-rich: Avocado oil is rich in vitamins E and K, which are important for maintaining healthy skin, immune function, and bone health. It also contains antioxidants that can help protect against disease and promote overall health.

4. Creamy texture: Avocado oil has a creamy texture that can add richness and depth to the rice pilaf. It can also help keep the rice moist and tender.

More great vegan butter substitutes

5. Canola oil: Canola oil is a good all-purpose oil that can be used in most baked goods, as well as for sautéing and frying. It has a neutral flavor and is lower in saturated fat than other oils.

6. Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a great substitute for butter in recipes that require a solid fat, such as pie crusts and cookies. It has a rich flavor and aroma and is a good source of medium-chain fatty acids.

7. Olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy option that can be used for sautéing, roasting, and baking. It has a fruity and slightly bitter taste that can add flavor to dishes.

8. Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a versatile oil that can be used in most recipes that call for butter. It has a light flavor and is usually less expensive than other oils.

When substituting vegetable oil for butter, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the final product may be slightly different. It’s best to start with a small amount of oil and adjust as needed to get the consistency and buttery texture you’re looking for.

What to serve with Longhorn steakhouse rice

Longhorn Steakhouse rice pairs well with a variety of main dishes, especially grilled or roasted vegan meats! Some delicious recipes and ideas for main dishes to serve with this longhorn steakhouse menu rice include:

For a complete meal, you can also serve some steamed or roasted vegetables on the side, such as broccoli, green beans, carrots or asparagus. And of course, don’t forget a fresh salad or some bread to round out the meal. Enjoy!

Salads to serve with Longhorn Steakhouse rice

Bread to serve with Longhorn Steakhouse rice

Delicious dips and sauces to serve with rice pilaf

FAQs – Here are some frequently asked questions about Longhorn Steakhouse rice:

What kind of rice does Longhorn Steakhouse use?

Longhorn Steakhouse uses a blend of long-grain and wild rice.

 Is Longhorn Steakhouse rice gluten-free?

Yes, Longhorn Steakhouse rice is gluten-free.

What are the ingredients in Longhorn Steakhouse rice?

The ingredients in Longhorn Steakhouse rice include long-grain rice, wild rice, chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper.

Is Longhorn Steakhouse rice vegetarian?

Longhorn Steakhouse rice is not vegetarian as it contains chicken broth in the original recipe that they serve in the restaurants. My longhorn steakhouse rice recipe is completely vegetarian, gluten free, dairy-free and 100% plant based.

Can I get a larger portion of Longhorn Steakhouse rice?

Yes, you can ask your server for a larger portion of rice for an additional charge.

Is Longhorn Steakhouse rice spicy?

No, Longhorn Steakhouse rice is not spicy. It has a mild, savory flavor.

How many calories are in a serving of Longhorn Steakhouse rice?

 A serving of Longhorn Steakhouse rice contains approximately 180 calories, according to their website. However, please note that the calorie count may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation method used in each dish.

Longhorn Steakhouse Nutrition

How many carbs are in Longhorn rice pilaf?

Unfortunately, Longhorn Steakhouse doesn’t provide specific nutritional information for their menu items, including their rice pilaf. However, a typical serving of rice pilaf contains around 35-45 grams of carbohydrates, depending on the recipe and ingredients used. I used a calorie calculator to determine the nutritional value of longhorn steakhouse rice pilaf 
Calories 230
Total Carbohydrate 41 g (14%)
Dietary Fiber 0.5 g (2%)
Sugars 4 g
Protein 3 g

Is rice pilaf healthier than fries?

In general, rice pilaf is a healthier option than fries as it is lower in calories and fat and higher in fiber and nutrients. One cup of cooked rice pilaf contains around 200-250 calories, 2-5 grams of fat, 40-50 grams of carbohydrates, and 2-4 grams of fiber. On the other hand, a medium serving of French fries contains around 300-400 calories, 15-20 grams of fat, 40-50 grams of carbohydrates, and 3-5 grams of fiber. However, the healthfulness of rice pilaf can vary greatly depending on the recipe and the ingredients used, such as the amount of oil, salt, and other seasonings.

How to store Longhorn Steakhouse rice pilaf

How to store Longhorn Steakhouse rice

If you have leftover Longhorn Steakhouse rice, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

How to reheat Longhorn Steakhouse rice

To reheat, simply place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat the rice in a saucepan or hot skillet on the stovetop by adding a little bit of water and stirring occasionally until heated through. It’s a great way to give new life to this tasty recipe. 
Note: Be sure to discard any leftover rice that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours to avoid foodborne illness.

Can you freeze leftover Longhorn Steakhouse rice

Yes, you can freeze leftover Longhorn Steakhouse rice if you want to store it for a longer period. Just place the rice in an airtight container or a freezer bag and label it with the date. The rice can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to use the rice, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it using either the microwave or stovetop methods that I mentioned earlier

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

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Best Longhorn Steakhouse rice pilaf copycat recipe

Longhorn Steakhouse Rice Pilaf Recipe – fluffy, steaming rice full of buttery and aromatic rich flavors. Longhorn Steakhouse rice is a wonderful and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any meal. Featuring flavorful, rich, buttery fluffy rice that the whole family will love! The rice is cooked with a delicious blend of seasonings, herbs and spices that create a delicious and aromatic flavor. The combination of flavors in the rice makes it a great complement to any main dish, such as vegan portobello steak or vegan tofu chicken. It's a next level Longhorn steakhouse copycat recipe that's a delicious side dish and a good option for jazzing up your everyday rice. 
Simone – Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Serving Size 8 servings

Ingredients

Longhorn Steakhouse rice pilaf Ingredients:

  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth original recipe uses chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup plant butter or vegetable oil like olive oil or avocado oil original recipe uses regular butter
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

How to make authentic Longhorn Steakhouse rice Instructions:

  • Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
  • In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
    Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.Pour in the vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
    Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes.
    Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
    And that's it! You'll have delicious Longhorn Steakhouse-style rice in no time. Enjoy!

Easy Steps to make Longhorn rice from leftover rice

  • In a large pan or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onions and green bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
    Add the leftover rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
  • Season the rice with salt and black pepper and stir.
    Pour in the vegetable broth and stir again.
    Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the rice cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth is absorbed and the rice is heated through. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
    And that's it! You'll have delicious Longhorn Steakhouse-style rice in no time. Enjoy!

Notes

How to cook long grain rice to perfection 
Cooking long grain rice to perfection is easy! And probably a lot easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Long grain rice cooking Ingredients:
  • 1 cup of long grain rice
  • 2 cups of water
  • Salt (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional)
Easy Steps to make perfect fluffy steaming rice:
  1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This will remove any excess starch and ensure that the rice cooks evenly.
  2. In a medium-sized pot, add 2 cups of water, salt, and olive oil (if using) and bring it to a boil.
  3. Once the water is boiling, add the rice and give it a quick stir.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
  5. Let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.
  6. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the rice to absorb any excess moisture and become fluffier.
  7. After the 5-10 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.
And voila! You now have perfectly cooked long grain rice. Enjoy!

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7 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I love everything about this recipe. I’ve tried making it with leftover rice and regular, and both times the dish came out amazing! Absolutely will be making this again. So delicious!

  2. 5 stars
    OMG!! This recipe was the best! My hubby and kids loved it even more than the restaurant version. It’s a keeper

  3. 5 stars
    My granddaughter likes Longhorn steak house and we go there very often. I have always wondered how they make the delicious rice they serve. I tried making this recipe last weekend and everyone said it was even better than Longhorn!

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