Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button, shiitake, or cremini); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely adore this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice recipe! It brings together the rich umami of mushrooms with the comforting creaminess that makes every bite feel indulgent. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a side to impress at gatherings, this dish never fails to satisfy this rice lover's cravings. The key is to slowly toast the rice and mushrooms together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a family favorite!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:01:35.202Z

When I first made this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, I was amazed by how simple ingredients like mushrooms and garlic could create such a deliciously rich dish. The creaminess comes from the addition of heavy cream and Parmesan, which elevate the rice to a whole new level. I've also experimented with different mushrooms, and while button mushrooms work well, I find that a mix of shiitake and cremini adds depth and complexity.

This recipe is all about patience. By slowly sautéing the garlic and mushrooms, you develop a nice caramelization that enhances the flavor. Don’t rush it! Allowing the rice to simmer gently in the broth lets it absorb all those savory notes, resulting in a creamy texture that’s truly irresistible. I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavor from mushrooms blended with creamy garlic.
Perfectly cooked rice that absorbs all the delicious broth.
Easy to make, yet feels like a gourmet meal.

Achieving the Perfect Creaminess

The key to achieving a luscious, creamy texture in this mushroom garlic rice lies in the Arborio rice. This short-grain variety is higher in starch, which releases into the cooking liquid and creates that signature creaminess without the need for excessive cream. As you toast the rice with the mushrooms and aromatics, you're not just enhancing the flavor; you're also kickstarting the starch release, which will thicken the dish beautifully.

For the richest flavor, don’t skip out on sautéing the mushrooms until they are deeply caramelized. This step takes around 8-10 minutes and is crucial. You want to see them brown without burning—this deep color adds depth to the umami profile of the dish. If your mushrooms start sticking, you can add a splash of broth to deglaze the skillet and lift those fond bits from the bottom.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this creamy mushroom garlic rice can be easily stored. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of broth or cream to bring back its creamy consistency, or use a microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

When reheating on the stove, be cautious not to overcook it; the rice can become mushy if heated for too long. If it looks too thick after reheating, simply add a touch more broth or cream to loosen it up, keeping that beautiful creamy texture intact. This dish is versatile; warm it up for a satisfying lunch or transform it into a hearty side dish at your next dinner gathering.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy mushroom garlic rice pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad, making it a versatile base for your meals. For those looking to incorporate protein, consider stirring in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even a fried egg on top. The richness of the rice complements these proteins splendidly, making for a balanced meal.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding different types of mushrooms or even greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. This not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional value. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can be a delightful substitute for Parmesan, offering a tangy twist that brightens the dish. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can lead to a new favorite!

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup Arborio rice
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button, shiitake, or cremini)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the Mushrooms

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and slightly caramelized, approximately 8-10 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the oil and mix with the mushrooms. Allow it to toast for about 2-3 minutes.

Simmer in Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, around 20 minutes.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasonings to your taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy mushroom garlic rice warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine during the toasting step.

Key Ingredient Insights

Using heavy cream in this recipe is essential for achieving its luxurious texture. The high-fat content balances the savory mushrooms and garlic, creating a velvety finish. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well, though the dish may lose some creaminess. For a plant-based alternative, coconut cream can substitute nicely, imparting a slightly sweet flavor that complements the umami of mushrooms.

When selecting mushrooms, a combination can elevate the dish's complexity. Shiitake mushrooms add a meaty flavor, while cremini offer an earthy depth. Button mushrooms are milder but can still contribute texture. Be sure to slice them uniformly to ensure even cooking, as mushrooms that are too thick will take longer to soften.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your rice ends up too al dente or undercooked, it may need a bit more time in the simmering broth. Keep the heat low and cover the skillet; adding a lid traps steam and can help the rice cook more evenly without burning. Remember to stir occasionally for uniform cooking and to prevent sticking.

Conversely, if your rice is too mushy, you've likely overcooked it or added too much liquid. To remedy this, try draining excess broth and gently reheating it in a skillet, allowing some moisture to evaporate. You can also stir in a tablespoon of freshly grated cheese or a bit more cream to restore some creaminess while balancing out overly wet rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

While brown rice is healthier, it will require a longer cooking time and may not achieve the same creamy consistency as Arborio.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water.

→ Can I add proteins to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed spinach can complement this dish perfectly.