Baked Veggie Rice Skillet

Name: Baked Veggie Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked brown rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I love making a Baked Veggie Rice Skillet when I want a delightful, wholesome meal that’s both easy and satisfying. This dish is a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and rice, all cooked together to create a warm and comforting experience. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup! This recipe comes together quickly, and I often customize it based on the seasonal veggies I have on hand, making it a versatile staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:49:35.163Z

During the weekends, I often indulge in cooking experiments, and my latest adventure was creating a Baked Veggie Rice Skillet. The goal was to combine my favorite vegetables with hearty rice, all baked to perfection. I discovered that using a mix of seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish colorful and inviting.

I started with a base of onions and garlic sautéed to bring out their sweetness. Adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach created a beautiful medley. I found that letting it all bake together not only melds the flavors but also gives the rice a lovely, crispy edge—definitely my favorite part of the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, fresh flavors from seasonal vegetables
One-pan preparation for easy cleanup
Nutritious and hearty for a complete meal

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet lies in its versatility. You can utilize any fresh vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for seasonal produce. For example, swapping in roasted cherry tomatoes or adding in some chopped kale can bring new vibrancy and flavor to the dish. Just keep in mind that vegetables with higher water content, like zucchini, may slightly alter the cooking time, so monitor the skillet as it bakes.

If you want to enhance the dish further, consider adding protein-rich ingredients such as chickpeas or cooked beans. These not only introduce a lovely creamy texture but also make the meal heartier and more satisfying. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful variations that can surprise your taste buds.

The Importance of Cooking the Rice Properly

Using uncooked brown rice for this skillet is key to achieving the perfect texture. Unlike white rice, brown rice has a thicker bran layer, which requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. This means you should ensure your vegetable broth is boiling before adding the rice to give it an even cook. If you find that your rice isn’t fully cooked after 30 minutes, add an extra 1/4 cup of broth and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes while monitoring closely.

Remember to keep the skillet covered tightly when transferring it to the oven. A tight seal prevents steam from escaping, ensuring the rice cooks through evenly. If you prefer a more al dente texture, check the rice at 25 minutes to see if it meets your preference.

Customizing Your Skillet

Feel free to personalize your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet by introducing different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin can provide a lovely depth to the flavor profile. Additionally, using fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving can elevate the dish further, lending a refreshing finish.

For those looking to cut back on cheese or seeking vegan options, nutritional yeast can step in beautifully. It delivers a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Simply sprinkle it over the top after baking for that satisfying umami taste, and you can enjoy a guilt-free meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Baked Veggie Rice Skillet

1 cup uncooked brown rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

Enjoy this nutritious and colorful dish!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, and spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Combine and Bake

Add the uncooked rice and vegetable broth to the skillet. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.

Bake

Bake for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and let it melt before serving.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your hearty skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil before serving. You can also customize this dish by adding your favorite protein such as chickpeas or chicken for a more filling option.

Make-Ahead Storage Tips

This Baked Veggie Rice Skillet is not only quick to prepare but also makes excellent leftovers. You can cook it in advance, store it in an airtight container, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth to rehydrate the rice.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual servings into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned above for a quick, nutritious meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this dish is incredibly flexible. You can enjoy it warm on its own or pair it with a light side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra punch of flavor, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can transform the dish into something truly special.

For those who love a bit of spice, consider adding a dollop of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes to each serving. It’s an easy way to adjust the heat level without overpowering the wholesome flavors of the veggies and rice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice the rice isn't cooking properly and the liquid hasn't absorbed, it might be due to a temperature that's too low. Ensure that your oven is fully preheated before placing the skillet inside, and check that your broth is boiling before you mix it in with the rice.

On the flip side, if the dish seems dry after baking, it may have cooked too long or lacked enough liquid initially. Keep track of cooking times and remember to keep the skillet covered tightly to trap moisture while baking. Adjusting cooking times with different vegetable moisture levels can also help troubleshoot dry results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as white rice cooks faster than brown rice.

→ What vegetables can I add to the skillet?

You can add any of your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or peas. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces for even cooking.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare this Skillet and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.