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 bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Wellness Favorites

I absolutely love this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings everything you love about vegetables together in a warm, savory embrace. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the spices and herbs I use to complement the fresh veggies. With just one pan required, the cleanup is a breeze. Ready in under an hour, it makes an ideal weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and nutritious. Trust me, this skillet meal is about to become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:25:35.375Z

When I first created this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet, I wanted a recipe that would allow for flexibility with whatever vegetables I had on hand. After experimenting with different combinations, I found the perfect blend that ensures each ingredient shines through. The secret is in the layering; by adding veggies at different stages of cooking, you can achieve a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

One major tip I learned during this process is to use long-grain rice for the perfect texture. It absorbs the flavors so well without becoming mushy. You can also add any leftover proteins to tailor it to your taste, making it a truly customizable dish that never gets boring!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful medley of fresh vegetables in every bite
One-pan dish for easy cleanup
Adaptable with your favorite herbs and spices
Healthy and satisfying meal for all ages

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of vegetables in this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet is flexible and should reflect your preferences or what's seasonal. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while zucchini and broccoli introduce a satisfying texture and a boost of nutrients. Carrots contribute natural sweetness and vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing. If you're looking to switch up the flavor profile, consider adding spinach, kale, or even mushrooms, which will cook down and integrate nicely into the rice.

Using long-grain rice is ideal for this recipe since it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully. However, if you want to save time, you can substitute with quick-cooking rice varieties, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as these may require less time on the stove.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When sautéing the onions at the beginning, aim for a golden color, which will enhance the dish's flavor. You can also add the garlic a minute after the onions to keep it from burning. Garlic can go from fragrant to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it! Stirring frequently ensures that all the vegetables cook evenly without sticking to the pan.

Once you add the vegetable broth and spices, ensure to bring it to a good boil. This creates a flavorful base for the rice to cook. After covering and reducing the heat, resist the urge to lift the lid—this traps steam and cooks the rice thoroughly. A properly cooked rice should be tender yet have a slight bite to it, known as 'al dente.'

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup carrots, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and carrots. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Cook the Rice

Add the long-grain rice to the skillet, followed by the vegetable broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a boil.

Bake the Skillet

Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Serve and Enjoy

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal straight from the skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite seasonal vegetables or add in some leftover cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein. You can also top it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese when serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare this dish ahead of time by chopping the vegetables and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to develop even more. When you're ready to cook, simply follow the steps without needing to prep fresh vegetables.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and stir occasionally to ensure even warming. This will help revive the moisture in the rice, preventing it from becoming dry.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Veggie Rice Skillet is hearty enough to be a main course, but it also pairs beautifully with proteins. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp. Drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving can elevate the flavors further.

For a touch of freshness, consider topping the skillet with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil when serving. These herbs not only add a pop of color but also enhance each bite with their aromatic qualities, making the dish even more delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a way to make this vegan?

Certainly! Just ensure you're using vegetable broth and skip any cheese or non-vegan toppings.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This skillet rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include any of your favorites such as spinach, peas, corn, or even sweet potatoes. Adjust based on your taste preferences!