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 for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love cooking Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, a dish that perfectly balances rich flavors with a comforting texture. Every time I prepare this, the combination of sautéed garlic and earthy mushrooms fills my kitchen with the most inviting aroma. The creaminess of the dish elevates it to the next level, making it an accompaniment that shines alongside any main course. In just 30 minutes, I transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal that I can’t get enough of!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:37:20.874Z

When I first tried making Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, I was surprised by how the richness of the dish came together so quickly. The key was allowing the mushrooms to caramelize; this brings out their natural sweetness and depth. Mixing them with garlic before adding the rice created an unforgettable layering of flavors that I knew would impress anyone at the dinner table.

One specific tip I discovered is to use vegetable broth instead of water. It enhances the dish's flavor profile considerably and makes the rice taste incredibly savory. The use of cream at the end adds a luxurious finish that I can never resist!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Absolutely delicious harmony of garlic and mushrooms
Creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice is Arborio rice, a high-starch short-grain rice typically used in risottos. This rice absorbs liquid well and releases starch, giving the dish its signature creamy texture. Substituting with long-grain rice or other varieties may compromise this creaminess. If Arborio isn't available, Carnaroli is a great alternative for achieving a similar mouthfeel.

Mushrooms lend an earthy flavor and a meaty texture to the dish, enhancing its savory profile. Feel free to experiment with different varieties such as shiitake or cremini for a more complex flavor. Just make sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking. Fresh mushrooms are best, but if you're short on time, high-quality canned mushrooms can also work in a pinch.

Techniques for Perfection

When sautéing the aromatics, maintain medium heat to prevent the garlic from burning—it can turn bitter very quickly. Look for the onions to become translucent before adding the garlic and mushrooms, which helps develop the base flavors. Stir occasionally, allowing the mushrooms to caramelize, which shows they are cooked properly and enhances their natural sweetness.

To achieve a perfectly creamy texture, it's crucial to stir the rice frequently as it cooks. This constant mixing releases the starch, making the sauce rich and silky. If you find that the rice is too dry during cooking, add a bit more vegetable broth, a quarter cup at a time, until the desired creaminess is reached.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your creamy delight:

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 for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect creamy texture:

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are golden brown.

Add the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly for about 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the rice's nutty flavor.

Combine Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for approximately 18 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is cooked al dente and creamy.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the cream to meld with the rice.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom garlic rice!

Enjoy your meal with a simple salad or as a side to your favorite protein!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of white wine during cooking for an extra depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice is ideal for meal prep. You can cook it up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or heavy cream to revive its creamy texture. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the rice from becoming too dry or tough.

If you’d like to freeze the dish, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that while freezing works, the texture may slightly change, so it's best enjoyed fresh!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It complements grilled chicken, roast pork, or even a vegetable stir-fry. For a vegetarian option, top it with sautéed greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color. You can also serve it as a filling side with a hearty salad for a complete meal.

For added flavor and visual appeal, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of truffle oil. Adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can introduce a hint of heat and make the dish more dynamic. Experiment with different toppings and serving styles to find your favorite combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

While brown rice can be used, it will require a longer cooking time and won’t produce the same creamy texture.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

→ What types of mushrooms work best?

I prefer cremini or shiitake mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but you can use any mushrooms you like!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.