Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe

Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice is a flavorful side dish that can make a simple homemade dinner feel like a restaurant meal. With fluffy basmati rice, sautéed aromatics, and a savory blend of spices, this copycat outback seasoned rice recipe recreates the bold taste that makes the original so memorable.

Ready in under 40 minutes, this seasoned rice is easy to prepare with everyday ingredients and a few simple cooking steps. Each bite brings a delicious mix of warm spices, rich savory notes, and tender rice without feeling too heavy.

Serve it alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or your favorite protein for a satisfying meal. Once you discover how easy it is to make Outback-style seasoned rice at home, you may find yourself adding it to your regular dinner rotation.

What Is in Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice?

Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice is a savory rice side dish served at Outback Steakhouse. It is known for its flavorful, seasoned profile and fluffy rice texture, making it a popular accompaniment to steak, chicken, seafood, and other entrées.

For a homemade version, Outback-style seasoned rice can be made by cooking long-grain or basmati rice with sautéed aromatics, savory seasonings, vegetables, fresh herbs, and chicken broth. Toasting the rice with the aromatics before adding the broth helps build a deeper flavor while keeping the grains separate and fluffy.

The exact restaurant recipe and seasoning proportions are not publicly disclosed, so homemade versions are best described as copycat or inspired recipes, rather than the official Outback Steakhouse recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice

Bring the bold, savory flavors of your favorite steakhouse right into your kitchen with this easy Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice recipe. It’s packed with restaurant-quality flavor, simple ingredients, and foolproof cooking steps.

• Restaurant-quality flavor at home.
• Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Fluffy, perfectly seasoned basmati rice.
• Simple pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Pairs with almost any main dish.
• Budget-friendly family side dish.
• Easy enough for beginner cooks.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers.
• Customizable with your favorite proteins.
• Better than many restaurant copycats.

What Does Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Taste Like?

This seasoned rice outback style is a true sensory experience. Each bite delivers a warm, savory depth from the paprika and seasoned salt, with subtle heat from black pepper and a gentle earthiness from fresh thyme.

The sautéed onion, garlic, and bell pepper add a slightly sweet caramelized undertone, while grated ginger brings a bright, aromatic lift. The rice itself is delightfully fluffy – each long grain perfectly tender and never sticky.

A fresh herby finish from parsley and green onion garnish rounds everything out beautifully. It smells incredible while it cooks, filling your kitchen with rich, comforting aromas.

Ingredients for Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice

Gather all the following ingredients, before you start making this Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice.

For the Rice Base:

• 2 cups long-grain basmati rice, washed thoroughly and drained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• ½ cup grated carrots, plus extra for garnish

Aromatics:

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon complete seasoning

Ingredient substitutions

Basmati rice: Long-grain white rice can work, but it may require a different amount of liquid and a different cooking time. Follow the package instructions and test the adjustment.

Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Choose a vegetarian-certified seasoning blend if needed.

Complete seasoning: If you do not have a premixed blend, start with a small amount of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Add gradually and taste before adding more salt.

Fresh herbs: Dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh herbs. Use smaller quantities and adjust according to taste.

Carrot and bell pepper: You can reduce or omit either vegetable, although the color, texture, and flavor will change.

Kitchen Tools & Utensils List

1. Large heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid
2. Wooden spoon or heat-safe silicone spatula
3. Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
4. Box grater (for carrots and ginger)
5. Measuring cups and measuring spoons
6. Aluminum foil (for the steaming step)
7. Fork (for fluffing the rice)

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 to 6

Difficulty: Easy

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to make the best Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice recipe with fluffy texture and bold, restaurant-style flavor every time.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped bell pepper, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle in the black pepper, paprika, seasoned salt, and complete seasoning. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and caramelize slightly. This step builds the rich, savory foundation that makes this seasoned rice so irresistibly delicious.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add the thoroughly washed and drained basmati rice to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well so every grain gets coated with the oil, aromatics, and seasonings. Let the rice cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so it can lightly toast and absorb all the flavors already in the pot. This step adds extra depth and ensures the rice never tastes flat or bland.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour the chicken broth into the pot and add the fresh thyme leaves and grated carrots. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, cover the pot with a lid and allow it to cook until most of the liquid has evaporated – about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on your stove and pot.

Step 4: Steam Until Perfectly Fluffy

When the liquid has mostly evaporated, gently mix the rice so the grains at the bottom come to the top. Cover the pot first with a sheet of aluminum foil, then place the lid back on top to trap in the steam. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice continue steaming for another 5 minutes. This extra step ensures all the grains become perfectly tender, light, and fluffy throughout.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pot from the heat and let the rice rest for 2 minutes. Fluff it gently with a fork, then garnish with sliced green onions and extra grated carrots for a fresh, colorful finish.

Serve warm alongside your favorite protein or as a satisfying standalone dish.

The Secret to Fluffy Seasoned Rice

The most important steps are rinsing, toasting, measuring the broth accurately, and allowing the cooked rice to rest.

For this version, the 1 ½ cups of basmati rice uses 2 ½ cups of broth. That gives the rice enough liquid to become tender without relying on the much higher liquid ratio sometimes used in generic rice recipes.

Different rice brands can absorb liquid differently, so if your particular basmati rice package gives different stovetop instructions, use those directions as a reference when adjusting future batches.

Delicious Way to Customize Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice

This outback steakhouse seasoned rice is one of those side dishes that fits effortlessly into almost any meal. Its savory, well-spiced profile makes it a natural companion for a wide range of proteins and cuisines, and its simple base is incredibly easy to personalize to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

This recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Here are seven delicious ideas:

1. Pair it with grilled steak

Just like at Outback Steakhouse, this seasoned rice is a dream alongside a juicy ribeye, sirloin, or T-bone steak. The bold savory flavors of the rice complement the smoky char of grilled beef beautifully.

2. Serve it with blackened or grilled chicken

The rice’s warmth and spice work perfectly with Cajun-seasoned or herb-marinated grilled chicken. Drizzle a little lemon butter sauce over both for an elevated plate.

3. Use it as a base for a rice bowl

Spoon the seasoned rice into a bowl and top with sautéed shrimp, crispy tofu, or pan-seared salmon, then add sliced avocado and a squeeze of lime for a fresh and filling rice bowl meal.

4. Make it vegetarian or vegan

Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth or coconut broth to make this recipe fully plant-based without sacrificing any of its depth or flavor. The aromatics alone carry incredible richness.

5. Add protein directly to the pot

Toss in cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or diced smoked sausage after the broth step to turn this side dish into a hearty one-pot rice meal – perfect for busy weeknights.

6. Spice it up with heat

If you love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of chili flakes to the seasoning blend in Step 1. You can also stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce just before serving.

7. Serve alongside seafood

This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp skewers, pan-seared tilapia, or baked salmon. The fresh herb garnishes tie the flavors together for a balanced, restaurant-worthy plate.

Expert Cooking Tips for Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe

Mastering this outback steakhouse copycat seasoned rice recipe comes down to a handful of key techniques that ensure perfectly fluffy grains, bold flavor, and consistent results every single time. These are the same principles that professional cooks rely on when making flawless rice dishes from scratch.

Follow these expert tips for perfect results every time:

1. Always wash your rice thoroughly

Rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear removes excess surface starch. This single step prevents the grains from clumping together and ensures a light, fluffy texture rather than a gummy one.

2. Don’t skip the toasting step

Toasting the rice in the oil and aromatics before adding liquid is a game-changer. It deepens the flavor dramatically and creates a slight nuttiness in each grain that makes the finished dish taste far more complex.

3. Use warm or room-temperature broth

Adding cold broth to a hot pot can interrupt the cooking process and affect the final texture. For best results, warm your chicken broth slightly before pouring it in, or let it come to room temperature first.

4. Measure your liquid precisely

The 2:1 ratio of broth to rice is key. Too much liquid makes the rice mushy; too little leaves it undercooked. Stick to 4 cups of broth for 2 cups of rice and resist the urge to add more mid-cook.

5. Use the foil-and-lid steam method

Placing aluminum foil under the lid before the final steam phase creates an ultra-tight seal that traps moisture evenly across all the grains. This is one of the most effective tricks for achieving restaurant-quality fluffy rice at home.

6. Resist lifting the lid during cooking

Every time you open the pot, steam escapes and the cooking temperature drops, which leads to unevenly cooked rice. Trust the process and keep the lid firmly in place until the cooking time is complete.

7. Let the rice rest before fluffing

After removing the pot from the heat, allow the rice to rest undisturbed for at least 2 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This resting period lets the residual steam finish the cooking and allows the grains to firm up slightly, making them easier to separate cleanly.

What Is Complete Seasoning?

Complete seasoning is a premixed spice blend commonly containing ingredients such as garlic, onion, herbs, and other seasonings.

Different brands have different formulas and salt levels, so check the label before adding additional salt.

If you don’t have complete seasoning, use a small combination of garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of cumin. The flavor won’t be identical, but it will provide a similar savory and herbal character.

How to Fix Common Seasoned Rice Problems

Why is my seasoned rice mushy?

Mushy rice can result from excess liquid, overcooking, or using a rice variety that absorbs less liquid than expected. Measure the broth carefully, avoid stirring repeatedly, and use the package directions when substituting another type of rice.

If the rice is already tender but slightly wet, uncover it briefly over very low heat to release some moisture, taking care not to scorch the bottom.

Why is my rice still hard or crunchy?

The rice may need more time or additional liquid. If the pot is nearly dry and the grains are still firm, add a small splash of hot broth, cover the pot, and continue cooking over low heat until tender.

Why is the rice bland?

Check the seasoning blend and broth you used. If needed, add a small pinch of seasoned salt, black pepper, or paprika after cooking. Taste as you go because seasoning blends can contain different amounts of salt.

Fresh parsley and green onions add freshness, but they cannot replace the savory flavor developed by the broth and aromatics.

Why is the rice sticking to the bottom?

The heat may be too high, the pot may have a thin base, or the liquid may have evaporated before the rice finished cooking. Use a heavy-bottomed pot, lower the heat after boiling, and check the rice near the end of the cooking period.

Can I make the rice less spicy?

Yes. Reduce the black pepper and paprika to suit your preference. This recipe is intended to have a savory flavor rather than intense heat.

What Is Usually Served With Outback Seasoned Rice?

Seasoned rice makes a versatile steakhouse-style side dish. It pairs especially well with:

• Grilled or pan-seared steak

• Grilled or blackened chicken

• Shrimp and other seafood

• Salmon

• Roasted vegetables

• Pork chops

Storage & Reheating Guidance

Store leftover seasoned rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave in 60-second intervals until heated through. On the stovetop, reheat over low heat with a tablespoon of broth, stirring gently. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Nutrition Information

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 295
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 6g
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 2mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Potassium: 260mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Vitamin A: 45% Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
• Calcium: 3% Daily Value
• Iron: 8% Daily Value

Estimated Nutrition: Values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.

Yield: 6

Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe

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Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice is a flavorful side dish that can make a simple homemade dinner feel like a restaurant meal. With fluffy basmati rice, sautéed aromatics, and a savory blend of spices, this copycat outback seasoned rice recipe recreates the bold taste that makes the original so memorable.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain basmati rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• ½ cup grated carrots
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 green onions
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon complete seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped bell pepper, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle in the black pepper, paprika, seasoned salt, and complete seasoning. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and caramelize slightly. This step builds the rich, savory foundation that makes this seasoned rice so irresistibly delicious.

Step 2: Toast the Rice
Add the thoroughly washed and drained basmati rice to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well so every grain gets coated with the oil, aromatics, and seasonings. Let the rice cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so it can lightly toast and absorb all the flavors already in the pot. This step adds extra depth and ensures the rice never tastes flat or bland.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and add the fresh thyme leaves and grated carrots. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, cover the pot with a lid and allow it to cook until most of the liquid has evaporated – about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on your stove and pot.

Step 4: Steam Until Perfectly Fluffy
When the liquid has mostly evaporated, gently mix the rice so the grains at the bottom come to the top. Cover the pot first with a sheet of aluminum foil, then place the lid back on top to trap in the steam. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice continue steaming for another 5 minutes. This extra step ensures all the grains become perfectly tender, light, and fluffy throughout.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat and let the rice rest for 2 minutes. Fluff it gently with a fork, then garnish with sliced green onions and extra grated carrots for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve warm alongside your favorite protein or as a satisfying standalone dish.

Notes

Store leftover seasoned rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave in 60-second intervals until heated through. On the stovetop, reheat over low heat with a tablespoon of broth, stirring gently. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 295

Common Queries & FAQs About Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe

When you give this Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe a try, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry-we’ve rounded up answers to the most common ones to help you out.

What is Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice made of?

This homemade copycat version uses basmati rice, chicken broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, paprika, black pepper, seasoned salt, complete seasoning, carrot, and herbs. These are the ingredients for this particular homemade version, not a verified list of the restaurant’s exact ingredients.

What makes Outback Steakhouse seasoned rice so flavorful?

The flavor comes from a combination of sautéed aromatics – onion, garlic, ginger, and bell pepper – combined with a bold spice blend of paprika, seasoned salt, complete seasoning, and black pepper. Toasting the rice in that base before adding chicken broth layers the flavor deeply into every single grain.

Can I use regular long-grain white rice instead of basmati?

Yes, you can substitute regular long-grain white rice with similar results. However, basmati rice is preferred because its longer, slimmer grains stay more separate and fluffy after cooking, which is closer to the texture of the original restaurant version.

What is complete seasoning and can I substitute it?

Complete seasoning (such as Sazón Completa or Badia Complete Seasoning) is a blend of salt, garlic, oregano, and other spices. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a mix of garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, and a pinch of cumin for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this outback seasoned rice without chicken broth?

Absolutely. Vegetable broth works as a direct substitute and keeps the recipe vegetarian-friendly. You can also use a combination of water and a bouillon cube if broth isn’t available, though the flavor will be slightly lighter.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes. Small amounts of frozen vegetables can be convenient, but they may release additional moisture. Thaw and drain them when appropriate, and adjust the cooking process if necessary.

Can this recipe be doubled for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe scales very well. Simply double all ingredients proportionally and use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume. The cooking times remain roughly the same, though you may need an extra minute or two for the larger quantity to reach a boil.

What proteins pair best with this seasoned rice?

This outback steakhouse seasoned rice pairs beautifully with grilled steak, blackened chicken, pan-seared salmon, garlic shrimp, or even roasted vegetables. Its bold, savory profile is versatile enough to complement almost any main course.

Is this the official Outback Steakhouse recipe?

No. This is a homemade copycat version inspired by the restaurant dish. The restaurant’s exact recipe and ingredient proportions have not been established here.

This outback steakhouse seasoned rice recipe is the kind of copycat dish that earns a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation. With simple pantry ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and a flavor profile that genuinely rivals the restaurant original, there’s every reason to make it at home.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just elevating a weeknight meal, this outback seasoned rice delivers every single time. Give it a try, make it your own with your favorite customizations, and don’t forget to share how it turned out – your dinner table is about to get a serious upgrade.

We’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Give it a try, then drop a comment below to share your thoughts and tips with us. You can also follow us on Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious updates and kitchen inspiration. Your feedback and support mean the world to us!