Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Arborio rice; 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Meals

I can't get enough of this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice! It's the kind of dish that warms my heart and fills my stomach with rich, savory flavors. The combination of creamy rice and earthy mushrooms, infused with garlic, creates a comforting meal that can be paired with anything from grilled chicken to a fresh salad. I love how easy it is to pull this together during a busy weeknight, yet it feels special enough for entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it on repeat!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:41:34.893Z

My journey to perfecting this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice started when I was on the hunt for a dish that wouldn't just satisfy my hunger but also tantalize my taste buds. After varying the proportions of mushrooms and onions, I realized that balance is key. Using a mix of fresh herbs at the end gives it a burst of flavor that keeps it bright and fresh.

One evening, craving comfort food, I experimented with different types of mushrooms and stumbled upon using a combination of cremini and shiitake. This not only added depth but also created a lovely texture that enhanced the creaminess of the rice. It has now become my go-to dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Luxurious creaminess that envelops each grain of rice
Umami-packed mushrooms that elevate every bite
Quick enough for a weeknight but stunning enough for guests

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this creamy mushroom garlic rice dish due to its high starch content, which is essential for achieving that luxurious, creamy texture. When it cooks, Arborio releases this starch, allowing you to create a risotto-like consistency without constant stirring. I recommend using short-grain Arborio rice; its plump, rounded grains absorb flavors beautifully while still maintaining a slight bite, ensuring a delicious balance between creamy and al dente.

To ensure perfect results, measure the rice accurately and avoid rinsing it before cooking, as this can wash away the starch that contributes to the creaminess. Toasting the rice for a minute or two in the skillet before adding the broth can also enhance the nutty flavor, so consider incorporating this step for an additional depth of taste.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

The combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms provides both earthy flavors and a variety of textures, elevating this dish from basic to gourmet. Cremini mushrooms are tender yet firm, and their deep flavor complements the creamy rice well. Shiitake mushrooms, on the other hand, add a rich umami taste that rounds out the overall flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other types like oyster or portobello, but be sure to adjust cooking times slightly as some may cook faster than others.

If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This will not only cater to dietary needs but will also maintain the umami flavor in your dish.

Perfecting Consistency and Storage Tips

To achieve that perfect creamy consistency, pay close attention to how much broth you add at each stage. Stir frequently but gently, allowing the rice to absorb the broth fully before adding more. Adjusting the heat during this process is crucial; too high can result in uneven cooking, while too low may prolong cooking time. The rice should be tender and creamy after about 20 minutes of cooking, making sure to taste for doneness as you go.

This mushroom garlic rice is an excellent make-ahead option. If preparing in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to achieve that creamy texture again. If you'd like to freeze it, make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container; it can hold well for up to two months, although the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced cremini and shiitake mushrooms to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.

Prepare the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring it is well-coated with the oil and mixed with the mushrooms and aromatics. Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth and stir until absorbed.

Add Broth Gradually

Continue to add the broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next cup. This process should take about 20 minutes, resulting in creamy rice.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is al dente and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom garlic rice warm!

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled proteins or a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added depth, try using a splash of white wine when sautéing your aromatic ingredients, allowing it to reduce before adding the broth.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy mushroom garlic rice pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins, making it a versatile side or main dish. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. The richness of the rice contrasts nicely with the lighter proteins, creating a balanced plate. For a vegetarian option, serve it with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

Another great serving option is to create a one-pan dish by adding cooked proteins directly into the creamy rice towards the end of the cooking process. This not only infuses the dish with flavors but also makes for a convenient dinner option with minimal cleanup.

Flavor Variations

One of the joys of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. For a touch of spice, try adding red pepper flakes during the sauté of mushrooms. Alternatively, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can lend a fragrant note that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the mushrooms. Adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms but before adding the rice adds acidity and depth that can elevate the entire dish.

If you're a fan of greens, consider folding in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking. Not only will it add color and nutrition, but it will also provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy texture of the rice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice turns out too dry or lacks creaminess, it’s likely that not enough broth was added throughout the cooking process. Remember that the goal is for the rice to absorb the broth gradually and reach that perfect creamy texture. If you find that it’s too dry, you can always add a bit more broth as it heats on the stove to loosen it up.

Conversely, if you accidentally add too much liquid, and the mixture becomes soupy, don’t despair! Simply let it simmer on low heat uncovered for a few more minutes, stirring gently, to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate. This will help restore that creamy consistency we love in this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth and skip any meat pairings.

→ What can I use instead of Arborio rice?

You can substitute with Carnaroli rice or even a long-grain rice like jasmine, but the texture will differ.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little broth to restore creaminess.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add peas, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition.