Wild rice is the unsung hero of the grain world. It’s nutty, chewy, and packed with personality—like that friend who always shows up with good vibes and great snacks.
Whether you’re looking for cozy comfort food, elegant dinner ideas, or something keto-friendly, these wild rice recipes have your back.
I’ve rounded up 10 of my absolute favorite wild rice recipes that’ll make you fall in love with this earthy gem. Let’s get cooking!
1. Creamy Wild Rice Soup
This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in butter until soft.
Add garlic, thyme, and a splash of white wine for depth. Stir in cooked wild rice, chicken or vegetable broth, and a splash of cream.
Simmer until everything’s cozy and delicious. Top with crispy bacon or fresh parsley. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little extra comfort.
2. Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole
If Casseroles had a fan club, this one would be president.
Sauté mushrooms with garlic and thyme until golden, then mix with cooked wild rice, a creamy sauce (I use a mix of sour cream and broth), and a handful of spinach.
Layer it in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake until bubbly. It’s hearty, elegant, and totally foolproof.
3. Wild Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
These stuffed peppers are a dinner win.
Cook wild rice with onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Mix in ground turkey, black beans, or lentils for protein, then stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers.
Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden. It’s a colorful, nutritious meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
4. Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
This salad is a flavor explosion.
Toss cooked wild rice with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled feta, and a handful of arugula. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey.
It’s sweet, tangy, and crunchy—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.
5. Wild Rice and Chicken Skillet
One-pan dinners are my love language.
Sauté chicken thighs until golden, then set aside. In the same pan, cook onions, garlic, and wild rice until fragrant. Add broth, cover, and let the rice simmer until tender.
Stir in the chicken, along with some spinach or kale, and let everything mingle. It’s a hearty, no-fuss meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
6. Wild Rice Pilaf with Herbs
This pilaf is simple but stunning.
Cook wild rice with onions and garlic, then toss with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a handful of toasted almonds for crunch.
It’s the perfect side dish for roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a holiday feast.
7. Wild Rice and Sweet Potato Bowls
Bowl meals are life, and this one’s a winner.
Roast sweet potato cubes with olive oil and smoked paprika until caramelized.
Layer them over cooked wild rice, along with black beans, avocado, and a drizzle of tahini dressing. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
8. Wild Rice and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash
Fall flavors, meet wild rice.
Roast halved acorn squash until tender, then fill them with a mixture of cooked wild rice, browned sausage (or plant-based crumbles), apples, and sage.
Bake until everything’s warm and fragrant. It’s a cozy, autumnal dish that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing.
9. Wild Rice and Broccoli Cheese Bake
This bake is pure comfort food.
Steam broccoli until tender-crisp, then mix with cooked wild rice and a creamy cheese sauce (I use cheddar and a touch of mustard for tang).
Transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
10. Wild Rice Breakfast Bowl
Who says wild rice is just for dinner?
Cook it with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of almond milk for a warm, porridge-like base.
Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds. It’s a hearty, wholesome way to start your day.
Wrap-Up: Wild Rice, Your New Kitchen BFF
Wild rice is the ultimate multitasker. It’s hearty enough for casseroles, elegant enough for dinner parties, and versatile enough for breakfast bowls.
These 10 best wild rice recipes are just the beginning—once you start cooking with wild rice, you’ll find endless ways to make it shine.
So grab a bag, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get creative in the kitchen.