Baked Brown Rice With Veggies Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Baked brown rice with veggies is a wholesome, comforting dish that perfectly balances nutrition and flavor. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more whole grains and fresh vegetables into your diet without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe combines the nutty taste of brown rice with a colorful medley of vegetables, baked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. Ideal for meal prep or a family dinner, it’s versatile, easy to customize, and suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a fulfilling main course, this baked brown rice with veggies recipe will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

Ready to dive into this delicious and nutritious meal? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and convenient: This recipe is all about minimal prep and maximum flavor. Once everything is combined in the baking dish, you can set it in the oven and let it cook without constant attention.

Nutritious and filling: Brown rice is a whole grain loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. Paired with a vibrant mix of veggies, this dish supports digestion, heart health, and sustained energy.

Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer, making it easy to tailor the recipe to your taste and seasonal availability. Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.

Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, and potlucks — this baked brown rice with veggies recipe ticks all the boxes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice (long grain or short grain)
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• 1 large baking dish (about 9×13 inches or similar size)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil or a baking dish lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping during baking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed rice, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, carrot, and canned diced tomatoes.
4. Add the olive oil, dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together until the rice and vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid to trap steam during baking. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and stays moist.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check towards the end of cooking — if the rice isn’t quite done but the liquid is absorbed, add a splash more vegetable broth and continue baking.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest covered for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and settle.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil for 3-4 minutes before mixing with the other ingredients. This step is optional but adds a lovely depth to the dish.

• Make it spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the seasoning mix.
• Change up the veggies: Swap out broccoli and zucchini for mushrooms, kale, or spinach depending on what you have available.
• Boost the protein: Stir in 1 cup cooked chickpeas or black beans before baking.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle 1/2 cup vegan cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.
• Use different grains: Try substituting brown rice with quinoa or farro for a unique texture and flavor. Adjust baking times accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked brown rice with veggies pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal or add a dollop of hummus or guacamole on the side for extra creaminess and flavor.

For a heartier meal, complement it with roasted tofu, grilled tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein. It also works well as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a base for a warm grain bowl topped with avocado and seeds.

Looking for more wholesome plant-based recipes? Check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals to expand your culinary horizons.

Conclusion

Baked brown rice with veggies is a versatile, nourishing dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Its wholesome ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—you can tailor it to your taste, dietary needs, and whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe offers a simple way to enjoy a balanced plant-based meal with minimal fuss. Plus, it reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Give this recipe a try and discover how easy and rewarding healthy cooking can be!

For more flavor-packed ideas, explore the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to spice up your dishes, or dive into Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals for dairy-free inspiration.

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