Contents

Mind-Blowing Easy One-Pan Baked Curry Rice: Flavorful & Fluffy Perfection

Unlock the secret to perfectly fluffy, incredibly flavorful Curry Rice with this unbelievably simple one-pan baked recipe. Designed for convenience and maximum taste, this dish ensures every grain is packed with aromatic spices and delightful textures, without any of the fuss or dreaded mushiness. Just combine everything in a casserole dish, bake, and savor a truly satisfying meal that will become an instant family favorite.

Delicious Curry Rice in a baking dish with a serving spoon, highlighting its fluffy texture and rich colors. — Experience the magic of perfectly fluffy, flavorful Curry Rice made effortlessly in one pan.

From My Kitchen to Yours: Why This Curry Rice is a Family Favorite

A Culinary Staple: The Enduring Appeal of Rice in Our Home

Simplify your dinner routine and delight your family with batch-cooked Curry Rice!

In our household, rice isn’t just a side dish; it’s a star, often chosen over other beloved carbs like pasta and even roasted potatoes. And honestly, who can blame them? I share their love for this versatile, comforting grain!

Given its popularity, I’ve mastered the art of batch cooking. Preparing a large quantity of this flavorful curry rice at the beginning of the week means easy grab-and-go snacks or quick additions to any meal. Stored conveniently in a freezer bag or airtight container in the fridge, it’s always ready when cravings strike. Yes, my kids even enjoy it plain – it’s that good and undeniably a fantastic healthy snack option!

While classic baked white rice and brown rice remain essential staples, I’m always experimenting with new flavor profiles using the same fool-proof, one-pan baking method. This innovative technique, which involves baking uncooked rice with liquid in a casserole dish, consistently yields perfect, non-mushy results. From aromatic herb rice to zesty lemon rice, vibrant pesto rice, savory Mexican rice, golden yellow rice, and creamy coconut rice, my collection of baked rice recipes is constantly growing. It was only a matter of time before a spectacular curry rice joined the lineup!

This Curry Rice recipe is a true standout – bursting with outrageous flavor, incredibly simple to prepare, and guarantees perfectly fluffy grains every time. It’s destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen, just as it has in ours. The ease of a one-pan dish combined with the rich, comforting flavors of curry makes this a winning recipe you’ll turn to again and again. I genuinely hope you adore it as much as we do!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Baked Curry Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious, effortless, and family-friendly rice dish that delivers on flavor and texture, look no further! This one-pan baked curry rice is a game-changer for countless reasons, making it a staple in any busy kitchen:

Unbeatable Depth of Flavor: A meticulously chosen blend of authentic curry powder, warm cumin, fragrant coriander, aromatic garlic, and zesty ginger creates a rich, complex, and incredibly enticing flavor profile. Every bite is an explosion of exotic spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Consistently Fluffy Texture: Bid farewell to sticky, mushy, or frustratingly unevenly cooked rice. Our unique one-pan baking method, specifically formulated for basmati rice, consistently guarantees individual, perfectly separated, and delightfully fluffy grains every single time.
Effortless One-Pan Cooking: The true genius of this recipe lies in its sheer simplicity. All the magic happens in one baking dish! Everything – from the uncooked basmati rice and fresh vegetables to the robust spices and nourishing liquid – goes into a single casserole dish. There’s no need for tedious pre-sautéing, constant stirring, or multiple pots. Simply assemble, pop it in the oven, and let it do all the work!
Wholesome and Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fresh grated carrots and vibrant frozen peas, this curry rice is a fantastic and flavorful way to incorporate more essential vegetables into your family’s diet. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is secretly packed with goodness.
Ideal for Strategic Meal Prep: Just like my other popular baked rice recipes, this curry rice is an absolute dream for batch cooking. Prepare a generous portion at the beginning of your week, and you’ll have quick, delicious, and ready-to-eat meals or wholesome snacks throughout your busiest days. It reheats beautifully, too!
Incredibly Versatile Serving Options: This baked curry rice is wonderfully flexible. Enjoy it as a satisfying standalone vegetarian meal, a hearty and flavorful side dish, or pair it with your favorite lean protein for a complete, well-rounded dinner that satisfies everyone at the table.

All the vibrant ingredients for curry rice meticulously prepped and laid out for easy assembly, including basmati rice, chicken stock, various spices, fresh grated carrots, minced garlic, ginger paste, frozen peas, butter, and sliced almonds. — Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious Curry Rice. Fresh and flavorful components ensure the best results.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Curry Rice & Smart Tips for Success

Crafting the perfect baked curry rice starts with selecting the right, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some expert tips to ensure optimal flavor, texture, and overall success in your kitchen:

Ingredient	What to Use	Helpful Tip for Best Results
Basmati Rice	Uncooked, high-quality basmati rice.	This recipe is specifically formulated to work flawlessly with basmati rice. Its distinctive long, slender grains cook up light, separate, and delightfully fluffy, resisting any tendency towards mushiness. Other rice varieties (like jasmine or short-grain) possess different starch levels and require varied cooking times and liquid ratios, which can lead to inconsistent or undesirable results. For the guaranteed perfect texture, it is strongly recommended not to substitute basmati rice.
Chicken Stock or Broth	A robust, full-bodied chicken stock or broth, such as Swanson’s, or a high-quality vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian or vegan option.	The stock is absolutely crucial for infusing the rice with deep, savory flavor right from the start, minimizing the need for excessive additional seasoning. Steer clear of plain water or very diluted broths, as they simply won’t provide the same richness and complexity. For optimal, even cooking, ensure your stock is at room temperature or slightly warmed before adding it to the dish.
Carrots	Fresh, large carrots, finely grated.	Grating fresh carrots yourself is essential as it provides vital moisture and a natural sweetness that beautifully enhances the overall curry flavor. Pre-shredded packaged carrots, while convenient, are typically drier, lack the vibrant freshness, and often don’t integrate as well, failing to contribute the necessary moisture for the perfect rice texture. Use the larger holes of your grater for ideal shred size.
Garlic & Ginger	Minced garlic and ginger paste offer superb convenience, or freshly grated for maximum potency and aromatic impact.	One of the many joys of this recipe is its effortless preparation – there’s absolutely no need for pre-sautéing these aromatics! The garlic and ginger impart their wonderful aromatic qualities directly into the rice as it bakes. Frozen cubes or a good quality store-bought paste are fantastic time-savers; if using fresh, simply grate them directly into the dish to infuse every grain with their rich essence.
Spices & Frozen Peas	A precise blend of yellow curry powder, earthy ground cumin, fragrant ground coriander, savory onion powder, pungent garlic powder, vibrant paprika, flavorful chili powder, salt, pepper, and bright frozen peas.	These carefully selected spices form the very heart of the curry flavor, providing its signature warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to perfectly match your personal spice preference. For ultimate weeknight convenience, consider pre-measuring and mixing these dry spices into individual “spice packets” for future batches – making homemade curry rice even faster and more accessible! Frozen peas add a delightful pop of color, a hint of sweetness, and cook perfectly right within the pan without needing to be thawed beforehand.
Unsalted Butter	High-quality unsalted butter.	The butter plays a critical role in this recipe. As it melts over the top of the rice, it infuses the dish with a luxurious richness, contributes significantly to achieving that desirable fluffy texture, and helps to prevent individual grains from sticking together. Using unsalted butter also gives you complete control over the overall sodium content of your dish.
Sliced Almonds & Cilantro	Toasted sliced almonds and fresh, finely chopped cilantro (optional, but highly recommended).	Toasted almonds introduce a wonderful nutty crunch and an added layer of depth that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful rice. Fresh cilantro provides a burst of herbaceous freshness, a vibrant color, and acts as a beautiful, fragrant garnish. Do not skip the toasting step for the almonds – this simple action profoundly enhances their flavor and texture!

All ingredients for the one-pan curry rice recipe being mixed together in a 9x13 baking dish before baking, showing the vibrant colors and ready-to-cook stage. — The simplicity of this recipe: just mix, cover, and bake!

A Raving Review from Our Community!

“It worked! I was skeptical but this rice is fluffy and so flavourful!! We served it with curried shrimp. It’ll be on rotation for sure.”
– Erika

Read All Reviews

Smart Storage Solutions for Leftover Curry Rice

Making a double batch of this incredible curry rice is always a brilliant idea because the leftovers are just as delicious, incredibly versatile, and perfect for quick meals throughout the week!

Making the Most of Your Leftovers

Once your curry rice has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any remaining portions into a large, airtight freezer bag or a sealed container. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an ideal candidate for effortless weekday lunches, satisfying after-school snacks, or last-minute side dishes. Simply scoop out what you need and reheat.

For longer-term storage, this baked rice freezes exceptionally well. To prepare for freezing, portion the cooled rice into individual freezer-safe containers or robust freezer bags. Ensure as much air as possible is removed from the bags before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without significant loss of quality. When ready to enjoy, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen (though reheating time will be longer) in the microwave or oven. For the best reheating results and to help restore its original fluffy texture, consider adding a splash of water or a bit of extra broth before warming. For more detailed tips on preserving rice, you can explore the best ways to reheat leftover rice.

Explore More Delicious Curry Recipes You’ll Adore:

Dinner

Coconut Curry Chicken

Dinner

Mango Chicken Curry

Dinner

Chickpea Curry

Dinner

Yellow Chicken Curry

The Ultimate One-Pan Baked Curry Rice Recipe

A vibrant bowl of freshly cooked Curry Rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Pin
Print

5 from 2 votes

Curry Rice

By
Chelsea Lords

This easy one-pan Curry Rice recipe is bursting with rich flavors and perfect textures. Simply combine all ingredients in a casserole dish and bake for deliciously fluffy, never mushy, rice every time. It’s a hassle-free, comforting meal for any day of the week.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

55 minutes

Resting Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour
15 minutes

Servings:

6 servings (can be more depending on what you serve it with!)

Recipe Video Guide

Equipment Needed

9 x 13-inch baking pan (ceramic or glass recommended)
Aluminum foil

Ingredients List

Cooking spray
1-1/2 cups uncooked basmati rice (see Note 1 below for why basmati is essential)
2-1/2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 tablespoon yellow curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper (approx. 1-1/4 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp pepper, adjust to your taste preference)
2 teaspoons minced garlic (see Note 2 for convenience tips)
2 teaspoons ginger paste
2 cups grated carrot (from 2 large carrots, see Note 3)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups frozen peas
1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted, see Note 4 for how to toast)
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional, but highly recommended for a burst of fresh flavor)
Tzatziki sauce (optional, but adds a fantastic cooling contrast that’s SO good!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare your dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom and sides, ensuring easy serving.

Combine ingredients: To the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked basmati rice, freshly grated carrots, all your pre-measured dry seasonings (yellow curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder), salt, pepper, minced garlic, ginger paste, and chicken stock (or vegetable broth if preferred). Stir all ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the liquid and rice.

Layer and butter: Once everything is mixed, gently smooth the mixture into an even layer across the bottom of the dish. Distribute the slices of unsalted butter evenly over the surface of the rice mixture. The butter will melt and infuse the rice with rich flavor and help achieve a perfectly fluffy texture.

First bake (covered): Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This step is absolutely crucial for trapping steam and ensuring the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavorful liquid. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Avoid lifting the foil during this period.

Second bake (uncovered): After 40 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Remove the foil (but remember to save it, you’ll need it again soon!). Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 15 minutes. This uncovered period helps the top layer of rice to dry slightly, preventing it from becoming overly moist or gummy.

Crucial resting period: Remove the dish from the oven for the final time. It’s vital that you do NOT stir the rice at this stage. Immediately cover the dish again with the foil you saved. Let it sit undisturbed for a full 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam further, become fully tender, and achieve that perfect fluffy, separated grain texture. Do not rush or skip this essential step!

Final touches: After the resting period, remove the foil. Add the frozen peas directly to the hot rice. Using a fork, gently fluff the rice to incorporate the peas and evenly distribute all the delicious flavors. Stir in the toasted sliced almonds and the finely chopped cilantro (if you’re using it).

Taste and serve: Taste the curry rice and adjust the seasoning (salt and pepper) if needed to suit your preference. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish, a light main course, or as part of a larger meal. For an extra layer of flavor and a refreshing contrast, serve it with a dollop of cooling Tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your perfectly fluffy and aromatic One-Pan Baked Curry Rice!

Important Recipe Notes for Success

Note 1 – The Basmati Difference is Key: This recipe has been extensively tested with various rice types, and white basmati rice consistently yielded the absolute best results. Its unique long-grain structure and lower starch content naturally ensure a fluffy, distinct, and non-sticky outcome. Other rice varieties, such as jasmine, standard long-grain white, or brown rice, absorb liquid differently and possess varied cooking times. Attempting to substitute them can easily lead to mushy or unevenly cooked grains. For perfect Curry Rice, adhere strictly to basmati rice.

Note 2 – Time-Saving Garlic & Ginger Shortcuts: To maintain the speedy nature of this recipe without compromising on vibrant flavor, feel entirely free to use pre-minced garlic stored in water (available in the refrigerated section of most supermarkets) and convenient ginger paste from a tube. Both options deliver excellent aromatic impact. If you prefer to use fresh ingredients, simply grate fresh garlic cloves and ginger root directly into the baking dish – no pre-sautéing is necessary with this baked method, making prep even quicker!

Note 3 – Fresh Carrots Make a Difference: Always opt for fresh, large carrots that you peel and grate yourself using the large holes of a standard grater. Avoid using pre-shredded carrots often found in plastic bags, as these are typically drier, lack the fresh sweetness, and do not contribute the vital moisture needed to properly hydrate the rice and integrate seamlessly into the dish. This small effort of grating your own carrots significantly enhances the final texture and natural sweetness of your curry rice.

Note 4 – The Art of Toasting Almonds for Enhanced Flavor: Do not skip the simple yet impactful step of toasting your sliced almonds! While the curry rice is baking in the oven, you can easily toast the almonds on your stovetop. Simply add the sliced almonds to a dry skillet or pan set over medium heat. Stir them frequently and continuously to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them, as almonds can burn very quickly! Toast until they become wonderfully fragrant and achieve a beautiful light golden-brown color. Once toasted, immediately transfer them to a plate to cool; this stops the cooking process and ensures they remain delightfully crisp.

Storage Tips: For maximum freshness and flavor, store any cooled leftover curry rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For extended enjoyment, this recipe freezes remarkably well. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring they are well-sealed, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a small splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture and prevent drying.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation based on the ingredients and preparation methods specified.

Love this recipe? Share your thoughts below!

Inspired Serving Suggestions for Your Curry Rice

This wonderfully versatile baked curry rice is undeniably delicious enough to enjoy on its own, making for a satisfying light meal. However, it also serves as a fantastic, flavorful base or side dish, pairing beautifully with a wide variety of main courses to create a truly complete and exciting meal. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your curry rice experience:

Add a Protein Power-Up: Transform your curry rice into a complete and hearty meal by adding your favorite protein. It pairs exceptionally well with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, grilled curry chicken, or even a simple pan-seared chicken breast. If using cold cooked chicken, a smart tip is to simply place it on top of the rice immediately after the second bake (before the final resting period). Cover the dish with foil, and let the chicken warm through gently as the rice rests, infusing it with extra flavor. Other excellent choices include flaky baked salmon, succulent blackened shrimp, a perfectly cooked soft egg (over-easy, poached, or a jammy boiled egg adds a luxurious runny yolk), or thinly sliced, tender grilled flank steak.
Cooling Counterpoint with Sauce: The warm, aromatic, and sometimes spicy notes of the curry rice are beautifully and harmoniously balanced by a refreshing, cooling sauce. A generous dollop of homemade Tzatziki sauce (a creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce) is an absolute match made in culinary heaven. Its creamy texture, tangy zest, and fresh cucumber notes provide a delightful, vibrant contrast that truly elevates the dish.
Scoop with Global Breads: For a truly authentic and enjoyable dining experience, particularly if you enjoy a more interactive meal, serve your curry rice alongside soft, pillowy flatbreads such as roti, naan, or pita bread. These breads are perfect for scooping up every last flavorful grain, transforming your meal into a wonderfully tactile and satisfying experience – often, no fork required!
Hearty Vegetarian Feast: For a robust and fulfilling vegetarian meal, complement your curry rice with a simple side of steamed greens like vibrant spinach or earthy kale, or a comforting bowl of lentil soup. The rice itself is already so packed with flavor and nutritious vegetables, making it a perfectly satisfying and complete main dish on its own.
Freshness with a Simple Salad: A crisp, light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the curry and add a refreshing element to your meal.

My Top Expert Tips for Crafting Flawless One-Pan Curry Rice Every Time

While this recipe is intentionally designed to be incredibly straightforward and accessible for cooks of all skill levels, a few key pointers and insider tips will ensure your baked curry rice consistently turns out perfectly fluffy, deeply flavorful, and utterly unforgettable. Pay attention to these details for guaranteed success:

Generous Greasing is Paramount: Do not be shy when applying cooking spray to your baking dish! A thoroughly greased dish is crucial; it prevents the rice from sticking stubbornly to the bottom and sides, making for incredibly easy serving and hassle-free cleanup. Moreover, absolutely do not skip adding the butter slices – they are not just for flavor but contribute significantly to the rich taste and that desirable, perfectly separated texture of the rice.
No Thawing Necessary for Veggies: One of the brilliant shortcuts and conveniences of this recipe is that frozen peas can be added directly into the piping hot rice right at the very end of the cooking process. They thaw almost instantly within the residual heat, retaining their vibrant color and fresh, sweet taste without becoming mushy or overcooked, saving you precious prep time.
Embrace the Full Bake Time: The total baking process for this dish might appear somewhat lengthy, but it’s almost entirely hands-off. Resist the powerful urge to frequently peek or, worse, rush the cooking time. The initial covered baking period is essential as it allows the rice to steam thoroughly and absorb all the flavorful liquid gradually and evenly. The subsequent uncovered period helps to prevent excess moisture from accumulating, ensuring a drier, fluffier grain. Rushing any part of this process can indeed lead to either frustratingly mushy or unpleasantly undercooked rice. Trust the timing!
The Absolute Importance of Resting: Just like perfectly cooked stovetop rice, this baked rice absolutely demands a crucial resting period after it comes out of the oven. Immediately cover the dish again with foil and let it sit undisturbed for a full 10 minutes. This vital resting period allows the steam to redistribute throughout the rice, finishing the cooking process, further tenderizing the grains, and ensuring each grain is plump, distinct, and wonderfully fluffy. This step is genuinely non-negotiable for achieving the ideal, restaurant-quality texture!
Tailor Your Spice Levels: The measurement for chili powder provided in the recipe is a guideline designed for a moderate level of warmth. If you or your family prefer a milder curry flavor, feel free to reduce the amount, or even omit it entirely. Conversely, for those who crave a bolder, spicier kick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more chili powder or even a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to truly customize the heat to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Easy Baked Curry Rice

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice for this recipe?

No, it is highly recommended to stick with white basmati rice for this specific recipe. This method and liquid-to-rice ratio are uniquely developed and tested for basmati rice. Brown rice has a different composition, requiring a different liquid absorption rate and a significantly longer cooking time, which would likely result in unevenly cooked, dry, or even mushy grains if used with this exact recipe. For the best results and the promised fluffy texture, please do not substitute brown rice.

Do I need to rinse the basmati rice before baking?

While rinsing rice is a common practice in many recipes to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness, for this particular baked method, it is not strictly necessary. The precise liquid ratio and the controlled baking process are designed to ensure a fluffy, non-sticky texture without the need for pre-rinsing. However, if you typically prefer to rinse your rice, a quick rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear will not negatively impact the recipe.

Can I make this curry rice vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken stock with a high-quality, flavorful vegetable broth. To transform it into a completely vegan dish, in addition to using vegetable broth, replace the unsalted butter with an equal amount of your favorite plant-based butter alternative or a neutral-flavored oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. The rich, aromatic flavors of the curry will still shine through beautifully!

What if my curry rice turns out mushy or undercooked?

Mushy rice usually occurs due to an excess of liquid, an insufficient baking time, or, most commonly, skipping the crucial resting period after baking. To avoid this, ensure you are using the exact measurements for both basmati rice and stock as specified in the recipe. It is also vital to strictly adhere to both the covered and uncovered baking times, and especially the 10-minute resting period. Avoid lifting the foil too often during the initial bake, as this allows valuable steam to escape, which is essential for proper cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe besides carrots and peas?

Yes, absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully customizable. You can certainly experiment with adding other quick-cooking or finely chopped vegetables. Diced bell peppers (any color), finely chopped spinach (stirred in during the last 10 minutes of baking or with the peas), or even very small florets of broccoli or cauliflower could work well. Just be mindful that denser vegetables might require slight pre-cooking or chopping into very small, uniform pieces to ensure they cook through within the rice’s baking time. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to add more color and nutrients!