Looking for a comforting and easy one-pot meal that practically cooks itself? This slow cooker rice recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple. Using just four pantry-friendly ingredients along with uncooked rice, you can whip up a warm, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. There’s no need to pre-cook anything—just toss everything into your slow cooker and let the magic happen. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, customizable, and ideal for busy families or anyone who craves home-cooked comfort food with minimal effort.
Ingredients
– 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
– 1 packet onion soup mix (or homemade equivalent)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker lightly with non-stick cooking spray or coat with a small amount of oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. - Add Uncooked Rice
Pour the uncooked long-grain rice directly into the slow cooker. Avoid using instant or quick rice as it may become too mushy during the long cooking time. - Mix in the Liquids and Soup
Add the chicken broth and canned cream of mushroom soup to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine the liquids with the rice. The soup will give the dish a creamy texture and rich flavor. - Add the Onion Soup Mix
Sprinkle the packet of onion soup mix evenly over the mixture. You don’t need to stir it in completely—just make sure it’s well-distributed on the surface so it can melt into the rice as it cooks. - Top with Cheese (Optional)
If using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top at this stage. As the slow cooker heats up, the cheese will melt into the rice and add a layer of creamy, gooey deliciousness. - Cover and Cook
Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, depending on your schedule. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking—this keeps the moisture trapped and ensures even cooking. - Stir and Serve
Once the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, give everything a good stir. The mixture should be creamy and rich, with the flavors fully blended. Serve hot straight from the slow cooker. - Optional Garnishes
Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, or additional shredded cheese if desired. It also pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.