How much dry rice is 2 cups cooked? The essential guide to rice conversions

December 28, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the USA Rice Federation, dry rice typically triples in volume when cooked, a rule that varies based on grain type. Understanding this principle is the first step to mastering perfect rice, whether you're making a side dish or preparing for meal prep. Getting the dry-to-cooked ratio right is crucial for avoiding waste and ensuring consistently fluffy results.

Quick Summary

For most common varieties like long-grain white rice, approximately two-thirds of a cup of dry rice will yield two cups of cooked rice. The exact conversion depends on the type of rice and cooking method, with some grains expanding more than others.

Key Points

Standard Conversion: A common rule states that 1 cup of dry white rice yields roughly 3 cups of cooked rice, making the target amount approximately 2/3 cup dry.
Variations Exist: The dry-to-cooked ratio changes based on the type of rice; brown rice expands less than white, and instant rice has a 1:2 expansion.
Measurement is Key: For 2 cups of cooked long-grain white rice, you will need about two-thirds of a cup of uncooked rice.
Cooking Method Matters: Cooking rice in a rice cooker, on the stovetop, or using a different method can slightly alter the final volume and texture.
Serving Size Consideration: A standard serving is often cited as about half a cup of cooked rice per person when served as a side dish, meaning 2 cups cooked can serve up to four people.
Adjust for Accuracy: For the most accurate and consistent results, especially when dealing with smaller batches like 2 cups, using a digital kitchen scale is the best practice.

How to Calculate Your Rice Conversion

To determine how much dry rice you need to get 2 cups cooked, the most important factor to consider is the expansion ratio of the grain. While a common rule suggests rice triples in volume, this is a generalization, and precision varies by type.

For a standard long-grain white rice, a dry-to-cooked volume ratio of 1:3 is a reliable starting point. This means:

1 cup dry rice yields approximately 3 cups cooked rice.

To achieve 2 cups of cooked rice, you can use a simple formula:

Amount of Dry Rice = Target Cooked Rice Amount / Expansion Ratio

Using the 1:3 ratio for white rice:

Amount of Dry Rice = 2 cups cooked / 3 = ~0.67 cups (or 2/3 cup)

This calculation provides a solid baseline for your cooking. Keep in mind that factors like the cooking method and the specific variety of rice will influence the final volume.

Factors That Influence Rice Expansion

Several variables can cause the dry-to-cooked rice ratio to shift. Being aware of these can help you fine-tune your measurements for specific situations.

Type of Rice

As noted, different varieties of rice have different expansion rates. This is due to differences in starch content and grain structure. For example, brown rice, with its outer bran layer intact, absorbs water differently than white rice.

Cooking Method

The method used to cook rice also affects the final volume. Rice cooked in a rice cooker or using the absorption method on the stovetop will have a different yield than rice prepared with a pasta-like method (boiling in excess water and draining). The amount of evaporation and water absorbed directly impacts the final fluffy or dense texture.

Measuring Technique

How you measure can make a difference. Scooping and leveling with a standard measuring cup is typical, but using a scale provides the most accurate results. For consistent results, always use the same measuring method for both dry rice and liquid.

Dry-to-Cooked Rice Comparison Table

For a clear visual comparison, refer to this table which breaks down common rice varieties and their approximate expansion ratios based on 1 cup of dry rice.


Rice Variety	Approximate Dry-to-Cooked Ratio	Estimated Dry Amount for 2 Cups Cooked
Long-Grain White Rice	1 cup dry yields 3 cups cooked	~2/3 cup
Brown Rice	1 cup dry yields 2.5 cups cooked	~4/5 cup
Instant Rice	1 cup dry yields 2 cups cooked	1 cup
Basmati Rice	1 cup dry yields 3 cups cooked	~2/3 cup
Arborio Rice	1 cup dry yields 2-3 cups cooked*	~2/3 to 1 cup

*Note: The yield for risotto rice like Arborio can be more variable due to the cooking method, which often involves adding liquid incrementally and stirring.

Practical Steps to Get 2 Cups Cooked

Choose Your Rice: Select the type of rice you plan to cook, as this determines your dry rice measurement. For a fluffy, separated grain like white rice, the 2/3 cup measurement is a safe bet.
Measure the Dry Rice: Use a standard dry measuring cup to scoop out the desired amount of rice. For white or basmati, measure out 2/3 of a cup. For brown rice, it's safer to use a bit more, around 4/5 of a cup, to account for its slightly lower expansion.
Rinse (Optional but Recommended): For less sticky rice, especially with white varieties, a quick rinse under cold water until the water runs clear is a good practice. This removes excess surface starch.
Add Water: Follow the appropriate water-to-rice ratio for your chosen rice and cooking method. For stovetop absorption with long-grain white rice, a common ratio is 1:2 (e.g., 2/3 cup rice to 1 1/3 cups water). For more detailed instructions, consult a resource like Love and Lemons.
Cook and Rest: Adhere to the cooking time and technique recommended for your rice type. The resting period after cooking is essential for the grains to absorb any remaining moisture and become fully fluffy.
Fluff and Serve: Gently fluff the cooked rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains and ensure an even texture throughout.

Conclusion: Mastering the Ratio for Perfect Portions

Knowing the expansion ratio of dry to cooked rice is an invaluable skill for any home cook. While a good general rule is that 1 cup of dry rice makes 3 cups cooked, the most accurate measurement for your specific needs will depend on the rice variety you choose. For two cups of cooked rice, start with about 2/3 of a cup of dry rice for white varieties, and adjust for others like brown or instant. By understanding these simple conversion principles and considering the nuances of different grains, you can consistently achieve the perfect quantity and texture of rice for any meal. This precision ensures you prepare just the right amount, every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can measure out 1/3 of a cup of dry rice twice. Alternatively, most kitchen scales will measure this accurately in grams (approx. 140g for long-grain white rice).

No, brown rice absorbs water differently due to its bran layer and generally has a lower expansion ratio. For 2 cups of cooked brown rice, you would need slightly more dry rice, around 4/5 of a cup.

Basmati rice typically follows the 1:3 expansion ratio, so about 2/3 of a cup of dry basmati rice will yield 2 cups cooked. Its fluffier nature can slightly impact the final volume when measured cooked.

The final volume can be influenced by the exact type of rice, the cooking vessel, tightness of the lid, and even altitude. Minor variations are normal, but for most standard stovetop methods, the 1:3 ratio is a very good guide.

For a single cup of cooked rice, you would need about 1/3 cup of dry rice, assuming a 1:3 expansion ratio.

You can, but it depends on the rice type. Some brands of quick-cooking or instant rice are pre-cooked and dehydrated to have a 1:2 expansion ratio, meaning 1 cup dry yields 2 cups cooked.

For the most precise and consistent results, always measure your dry rice by weight using a kitchen scale. The label on the rice packaging typically provides nutrition information based on weight (e.g., 45g dry rice).