How to Freeze Leftover Rice (And Keep It Fluffy)

I used to throw away so much leftover rice because it would get mushy and gross when I reheated it. Then I found this method to freeze leftover rice that keeps it fluffy and perfect, even after months in the freezer. In this guide, I'll show you exactly how to do it.

Step-by-Step Guide

Cool the rice as quickly as possible. Never leave rice out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. It can grow bacteria that makes you sick.
Spread the cooked rice in a thin layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Put the baking sheet in the freezer for 1 hour. This freezes the rice grains individually, so they don't clump together.
Transfer the frozen rice to an airtight freezer bag or container.
Label the bag with the date and freeze it for up to 6 months.

How to Reheat Frozen Rice

This is the secret to keeping the rice fluffy when you reheat it.

Put the frozen rice in a microwave-safe bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of water for every cup of rice.
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leave a small vent for steam).
Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Pro Tip

Freeze the rice in individual portions. That way you can take out just what you need without thawing the whole bag.

Important Safety Note

Rice can contain spores of bacteria that can survive cooking. If you leave rice out at room temperature, these spores can grow into bacteria that cause food poisoning. Always cool rice quickly and store it in the fridge or freezer.