Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 200g mushrooms, sliced; 3 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first made Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such a dreamy dish. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and garlic transforms plain rice into a creamy, indulgent side that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to whip up on a weeknight, making it a go-to for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:16:15.313Z

During one of my cooking experiments, I stumbled upon the idea of combining creamy textures with earthy mushrooms, and it worked like a charm! I found that using arborio rice adds a delightful creaminess without the need for heavy cream, which keeps the dish light yet satisfying.

I've played with different herbs, but fresh parsley truly elevates the flavor. Pairing it with a touch of Parmesan cheese ties everything together beautifully. Every bite is a savory sensation that has become a favorite in our home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly comforting
Perfect balance of savory garlic and umami mushrooms
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is integral to achieving the creamy texture of this dish. This short-grain rice is high in starch, which contributes to the silkiness you're looking for in creamy risottos and rice dishes. Unlike long-grain varieties, Arborio rice absorbs liquid well and releases starch as it cooks, making it essential for this recipe. If you can't find Arborio, you can substitute with Carnaroli or even a medium-grain rice, but the texture may differ slightly.

When cooking Arborio, keep an eye on the heat. A medium setting allows the rice to absorb broth gradually without becoming mushy. I recommend stirring periodically during cooking to promote even starch release, helping the dish achieve that desirable creamy consistency.

Enhancing Flavor with Mushrooms

Mushrooms add depth and umami to the Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice. Varieties like cremini or shiitake offer a rich flavor, but you can also use button mushrooms if that's what you have on hand. To boost their flavor, ensure they are well-cooked until golden brown before adding the rice, as this caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the dish.

If you want a more intense mushroom essence, consider rehydrating dried mushrooms in boiling water before slicing them and including them in the dish. The soaking liquid can be used in place of some vegetable broth for an extra boost of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
200g mushrooms, sliced
3 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure you have everything ready to go for an easy cooking experience!

Instructions

Let's create this delicious dish step by step:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they are golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.

Incorporate Broth Gradually

Pour in the vegetable broth one cup at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next cup. This process should take around 15 minutes.

Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Once the rice is creamy and cooked through, remove it from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley until well combined.

Enjoy your comforting creamy mushroom garlic rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after cooking the mushrooms. It brings a delightful zing to this creamy dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the many beauties of Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice is that it can be made ahead of time. Once cooked, allow the rice to cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat the rice in a pan with a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in portions. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly once thawed, but reheating with broth helps revive its creaminess. Aim to consume frozen portions within two months for the best quality.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice pairs beautifully with many mains. Try it as a base for grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. Its rich texture complements protein dishes well, serving as a luscious counterpoint to savory meats and bright, roasted flavors.

If you're looking for a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This contrast between the creamy rice and the zesty salad creates a delightful balance of flavors. You can also top the rice with extra sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of additional herbs for an elegant presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular rice instead of arborio?

While arborio rice is preferred for its creaminess, you can use regular rice, though the texture will be different.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes during the sautéing process for a spicy kick.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.