Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or mozzarella); 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love Sundays, and this Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake has become a cherished part of my weekend routine. There's something so comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that fills the home with rich aromas. This recipe brings together creamy rice, earthy mushrooms, and melty cheese, creating a heartfelt meal that gathers friends and family around the table. It’s simple enough for an everyday occasion yet deliciously indulgent for special gatherings.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:10:14.525Z

When I first decided to make this Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake, I was craving something warm and comforting. After testing a few recipes, I found that using arborio rice adds a delightful creaminess, and sautéing the mushrooms until golden enhances their deep flavor. I also discovered that a touch of white wine really brings out the umami profile!

Each time I prepare this dish, I enjoy getting creative with the toppings. Adding crispy breadcrumbs just before baking gives it a beautiful golden crust and a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy texture. It's always a hit at the dinner table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent, creamy texture that satisfies every craving
Earthy mushrooms paired with savory cheese and herbs
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy Sundays

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is key to achieving the creamy texture that defines this dish. Unlike long-grain rice, arborio is a short-grain variety with higher starch content, which releases during cooking, making the rice luxuriously smooth. When you stir the rice into the sautéed vegetables, take care not to rush this step; it allows the rice to absorb the flavors fully from the sautéed onions, garlic, and mushrooms. The result is a deeply flavorful base that sets the stage for the creaminess to come.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a substitute, consider using Carnaroli or even a medium-grain rice, but be aware that the texture may differ slightly. For a quicker version, you might also use pre-cooked rice; just adjust the liquid and baking time accordingly.

Perfecting the Bake

When transferring the rice mixture to the baking dish, ensure that it’s evenly distributed to promote even cooking. A good non-stick or ceramic baking dish will help prevent sticking and promote a suitable browning on the edges. You want it to be bubbly around the edges, which offers a contrast in texture to the creamy center. If you’re using a metallic pan, keep an eye on the bake as it may cook faster due to the heat conductivity.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary into the rice mixture before baking. Not only will this elevate the overall taste, but it will also add a vibrant touch of color to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake can serve as a wonderful main dish on its own, but it can also be paired with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you have leftovers, they reheat beautifully; simply cover the dish with aluminum foil and warm it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This helps to retain moisture while bringing back the cheesy goodness.

For variations, feel free to incorporate a mix of vegetables such as spinach, kale, or even roasted red peppers to add color and flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different cheeses, like smoked gouda or aged cheddar, can create exciting new taste profiles that rejuvenate this classic recipe.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 cup arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or mozzarella)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are nicely browned.

Cook the Rice

Add the arborio rice to the skillet and stir well to coat. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked al dente.

Combine and Transfer

Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheese into the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the rice mixture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving, or a dash of truffle oil for a luxurious touch!

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time as it will go into the oven cold.

If you want to freeze the dish, consider assembling it and then placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. A little extra cheese on top before baking will enhance the final outcome.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the rice is not fully cooked after the prescribed time, it may be due to the heat level or the pot used. Always maintain a gentle simmer; a boil can cause uneven cooking. If you encounter this, add a bit more broth or water and continue simmering until the rice is al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

For a thicker consistency, allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven; this allows some of the moisture to evaporate. Conversely, if it seems too thick, adding a splash of milk or broth during reheating can revive its creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of arborio?

Brown rice can be used, but it will require longer cooking times and more liquid.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked mixture for up to 3 months. Just bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time.

→ What type of cheese is best?

Gruyère or mozzarella work great, but feel free to experiment with your favorites such as cheddar or fontina.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese to keep it plant-based.