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 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice on busy weeknights. The combination of earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and creamy texture turns a simple dish into a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s not just a side dish; it can easily stand alone with a refreshing salad or steamed veggies. I enjoy it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and the best part is how quickly it comes together—just under 30 minutes!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:33:35.009Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was looking for a quick yet delectable way to use up a bunch of mushrooms in my fridge. With just a handful of ingredients and around 30 minutes, I was amazed by how much flavor this dish packed. The key is sautéing the mushrooms until they’re golden brown before adding the garlic and rice, which infuses every bite with umami goodness.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different types of mushrooms, from shiitake to cremini, and each brings its unique flair. I found that adding a splash of white wine elevates the dish even further, giving it a subtle depth. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of parsley on top for a gorgeous presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that tantalizes your taste buds
Hearty mushrooms adding depth and flavor to every bite
Simple ingredients making it quick and easy for any night
Perfect as a main dish or a comforting side

Ingredient Insights

Using Arborio rice in this dish is crucial for achieving that desired creaminess. Arborio rice, short and plump, has a high starch content that releases while cooking, creating a luscious texture. If Arborio isn’t available, you can substitute with Carnaroli or even sushi rice, but keep in mind the creaminess might differ slightly. Each grain will absorb the flavors, making sure every bite packs a punch.

Mushrooms contribute a deep earthy flavor to the rice, and their texture enhances the dish significantly. I prefer using cremini or shiitake for their robust taste, but you can easily swap in button mushrooms if that’s all you have on hand. Just ensure they are fresh and packed with moisture; dried mushrooms will require rehydration and may alter the dish's outcome.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions, aim for them to become soft and translucent, which typically takes about 3 minutes. This softening process ensures that their natural sweetness is released, forming a flavorful base for the dish. Stir them gently to prevent sticking, and maintain a medium heat to avoid burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.

Once you add the broth, maintain a simmer rather than a rolling boil. This gentle cook helps the rice absorb the liquid gradually, allowing for the starches to release slowly, which is key for creaminess. Stirring occasionally is essential; it prevents the rice from sticking and ensures even cooking. If the mixture seems too thick before the rice is tender, adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain the right texture.

Ingredients

To prepare this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These fresh ingredients will come together to create a rich and fulfilling dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it well with the mushroom mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and tender.

Finish with Cream

Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust seasoning as needed and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, savory rice dish!

Your Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness or mix in some spinach for added greens.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great things about Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice is its flexibility for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat on low heat, adding a little vegetable broth or cream as needed to restore its creamy consistency.

This dish can also freeze well if you want to make a larger batch. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Just remember that freezing might slightly alter the texture of the mushrooms, so it's best suited for a quick meal when time is of the essence.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts can add some texture and color to your plate, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor.

For protein lovers, consider adding grilled chicken or pan-seared shrimp on top. They add a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy rice. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving, which can brighten the dish's overall profile beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and the texture will be different. Arborio rice gives a creamy risotto-like finish.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free vegetable broth and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based butter instead of olive oil.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

I love using a mix of shiitake and cremini, but you can use any type you prefer or have on hand!