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 short-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet! It’s not only colorful and vibrant but also packed with flavors that truly bring the dish to life. The combination of fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked rice creates a delightful harmony that’s both comforting and nourishing. I find it to be an easy weeknight meal that can be customized based on what I have in my fridge. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the family!

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:30:36.374Z

When I first tried my hand at this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet, I was amazed how easy it was to create such a hearty dish. The key lies in the layering of flavors, starting with sautéing onions and garlic for that aromatic base, followed by colorful bell peppers and zucchini. Each ingredient builds upon the last, creating a dish that shines with freshness.

I highly recommend using a mix of short-grain rice for its perfect sticky texture. It clumps together beautifully, allowing the vegetables to nestle in perfectly. Serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving elevates the dish even further!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh flavors from seasonal vegetables
Highly customizable - add your favorite proteins or grains
A one-pan dish makes for easy cooking and cleanup

      

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Choosing the freshest vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet. Seasonal vegetables not only taste better but often have a crisp texture that adds depth to the dish. Look for brightly colored vegetables that are firm to the touch, such as zucchini and bell peppers. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully during cooking, resulting in a rich, savory flavor. Using vegetables at their peak freshness can elevate a simple dish into something truly special.

In addition to the primary veggies listed, consider incorporating others like spinach or kale. Adding these leafy greens towards the end of cooking ensures they wilt perfectly without losing their nutrients. If you happen to have other vegetables on hand, such as mushrooms or carrots, feel free to experiment. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain the rice's cooking balance.

Perfecting Rice Texture

The type of rice you choose can impact the overall texture of your skillet. Short-grain rice, as used in this recipe, tends to become creamy and sticks together, offering a delightful mouthfeel. Ensure you rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which can lead to a gummy texture when cooked. After rinsing, I let the rice sit in cold water for about 10-15 minutes; this pre-soaking helps it to cook evenly and absorb more broth, enhancing overall flavor.

If you're looking to substitute the rice for a gluten-free alternative, consider using quinoa. Quinoa cooks with a similar liquid-to-grain ratio but requires about 15 minutes of simmering before baking. However, you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it achieves that fluffy texture that complements the vegetables.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly can keep your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet delicious for days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, add a tablespoon of vegetable broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out, and warm it in a skillet over low heat. Gently stirring will help maintain its fluffy texture without risking burning.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions. Cooked rice dishes freeze well and can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just ensure to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This method not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy a healthy homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Baked Veggie Rice Skillet:

Ingredients

1 cup short-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet:

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Chop all the vegetables as indicated in the ingredients list.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Cook

Stir in the bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until soft. Add the rice, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Bake the Dish

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, add the cherry tomatoes, cover again, and bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from the oven, fluff the rice with a fork, and top with fresh basil before serving.

Pro Tips

Make sure to adjust your seasoning based on your taste preferences! Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this dish based on your family's preferences! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the spices. For a heartier version, you might include cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken, adding them during the baking phase to ensure they heat through without overcooking.

To add a twist, try different herbs and spices. Fresh thyme or parsley can provide an aromatic lift, while smoked paprika can introduce an intriguing smoky note. Mixing in a dash of lemon juice before serving brightens the dish, giving it a refreshing finish that contrasts nicely with the earthiness of the veggies.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Veggie Rice Skillet is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top adds a sweet acidity that can enhance the dish's overall flavor. Alternatively, a dollop of creamy yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a delightful tang, balancing out the hearty ingredients.

For a more social dining experience, consider turning this recipe into a DIY meal station. Allow guests to add their toppings, such as avocado slices, nuts for crunch, or additional fresh herbs. This interactive approach not only makes for a fun meal but also caters to different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would pair well.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it utilizes vegetable broth.

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.