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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I love how easy it is to prepare a comforting meal with just a few fresh ingredients. One of my go-to recipes is this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet, which brings together the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables and the wholesome goodness of rice. It’s not only a breeze to make, but it also fills my kitchen with delightful aromas. Whether you're winding down after a long day or hosting a casual get-together, this skillet dish is bound to impress. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can easily adapt to whatever veggies you have at hand.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:53:34.514Z

In my quest for a nutritious and satisfying meal, I stumbled upon this delightful Baked Veggie Rice Skillet. The combination of fluffy rice and colorful vegetables creates a vibrant dish that not only tastes great but looks beautiful too. I experimented with different veggies, and my favorites are bell peppers and zucchini, which add a lovely crunch and sweetness.

One of the best tips I have for perfecting this recipe is to layer your veggies thoughtfully before baking. This way, the rice absorbs all the flavors and the vegetables roast to perfection. The end result is a skillet that's packed with flavor and is incredibly filling!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful and nutritious blend of fresh vegetables
Versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients
One-pan meal for easy cleanup

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet is long-grain rice, which cooks up fluffy and tender. This type of rice allows the dish to absorb the vegetable broth, creating a flavorful base. If you're looking for a different texture or flavor, you can substitute with brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid; brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking duration.

Fresh vegetables are the stars of this dish, adding vibrant colors and essential nutrients. The zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot not only contribute sweetness and texture but also create a nutritious blend. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli, adjusting the cooking time if needed to ensure they remain tender-crisp when baked.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the rice is a crucial step, as it builds a flavorful base. This technique releases essential oils and softens the onions, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Make sure to sauté just until the onions are translucent; overcooking them can lead to a bitter flavor. A good pop of garlic flavor should be maintained, so keep a close eye during this step!

When combining the rice and broth, it's important to stir thoroughly to prevent any clumps. Ensuring even moisture distribution is key to achieving perfectly cooked rice. If you notice the rice still has liquid at the end of the baking time, simply replace the cover and allow it to sit for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid successfully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth, and mix in the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Bake

Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Remove from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Veggie Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy or have on hand! This recipe is very forgiving and works well with a variety of produce.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the veggie rice skillet in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Even better, it reheats beautifully. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When ready to enjoy, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider baking it in a disposable foil pan. This way, you can easily cover it and freeze for up to a month. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. When ready to cook from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro right before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing touch that complements the earthiness of the roasted vegetables beautifully. For a protein boost, serve it alongside grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more filling meal.

This dish is versatile enough to act as a side or main course. If you're serving it at a casual gathering, pair it with a crisp green salad for a light, healthy meal, or offer it as a hearty side to roasted meats. In colder months, a dollop of warm marinara or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can transform it into a comforting, warming dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead and bake it when you are ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the Baked Veggie Rice Skillet?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or grilled protein for a more complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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