Learn how to make pasta method rice the foolproof way for the fluffiest, perfectly cooked grains in around 20 minutes!
Why this recipe works
So, what exactly is pasta method rice? It’s basically in the title – you can easily cook up a batch of long grain white rice exactly the way you would cook pasta, by boiling it in a large amount of water. It’s a foolproof technique that leaves you with nothing but fluffy, light rice every single time. Seriously, if you struggle to master the basics on how to cook white rice, the pasta method is for you!
Pasta method rice is great for large batch cooking if you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, which means you can double or triple the recipe if needed.
Ingredients you will need
Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
RICE – This recipe is intended for long-grain white rice such as basmati or Jasmine. The time to cook can vary for other varieties of rice.
How to Make Pasta Method Rice
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Fill a pot 3/4 full with water, add salt, and bring to a boil over high heat.
- RINSE and drain rice then add to boiling water. Turn heat down to medium. Cook uncovered for 8 minutes. Rice should be al dente.
- Drain rice and return to the empty pot. Turn heat down as low as you can. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and stir until it melts.
- Cover and cook over lowest setting for 10 minutes, stirring after 5. Turn off heat and fluff.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
You’ll want to fill your pot 3/4 of the way full with water. An exact amount of water isn’t necessary, as long as the water covers the rice well (just like pasta).
Yes, however, brown rice will take longer to cook. Follow the same method as listed in the directions (boil water, add rice) but boil the brown rice for around 30 minutes. Drain and allow the rice to sit for a couple of minutes and fluff. You can add butter if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pasta method rice is a serious game changer, especially if you struggle to nail perfectly cooked rice the traditional way. You don’t need extra gadgets (unless you already have a handy rice cooker). Just a pot and some rice and you’re good to go.
Serve your rice just as you would normally with anything from honey garlic chicken, stir-fries, and Cajun red beans and rice.
More Rice Recipes
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Pasta Method Rice
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It Rate ItIngredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- water for boiling
Before You Begin
- This recipe is intended for long-grain white rice such as basmati or Jasmine. The time to cook can vary for other varieties of rice.
- Brown rice will take longer to cook. Follow the same method as listed in the directions (boil water, add rice) but boil the brown rice for around 30 minutes. Drain and allow the rice to sit for a couple of minutes and fluff. You can add butter if desired.
Instructions
- Fill pot 3/4 full with water, add salt, and bring to a boil over high heat.2 teaspoons Kosher salt, water
- RINSE and drain rice then add to boiling water. Turn heat down to medium. Cook uncovered 8 minutes. Rice should be al dente.1 cup long grain white rice
- Drain rice and return to the empty pot. Turn heat down as low as you can. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and stir until it melts.1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- Cover and cook over lowest setting for 10 minutes, stirring after 5. Turn off heat and fluff.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- You’ll want to fill your pot 3/4 of the way full with water. An exact amount of water isn’t necessary, as long as the water covers the rice well (just like pasta).
Nutrition
Amanda Davis
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Johnny says
I’ve always had a hard time making rice that wasn’t sticky and/or mushy. This rice recipe makes perfect rice!
Amanda Davis says
So glad it was a success! It’s the only way I make rice now :)
Anne Dobbs says
love your recipes and the exact directions that eliminate any possible questions. What a wonderful gift for new young beginner cooks and well as us old timers.
Amanda Davis says
Thanks so much Anne, it’s very much appreciated!