Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (any variety); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Collection

I love making Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice because it fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s hard to resist. The rich, savory blend of mushrooms and garlic creates a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or even as a main course. With every creamy bite, I enjoy the perfect balance of flavors that feels both rich and satisfying. This dish comes together beautifully in just under an hour, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings with friends and family.

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:45:34.792Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create something that combined comfort and technique. The key is to sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden brown; this enhances their flavor significantly, making the rice even more inviting. During my first attempt, I realized that adding a splash of white wine elevates the dish and brings out the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully.

To ensure a wonderfully creamy consistency, I use a blend of broth and a touch of cream. The rice absorbs these flavors while cooking, resulting in a rich and luscious texture. I highly recommend stirring in some fresh herbs just before serving to add brightness and freshness to every bite. Trust me, this dish impresses every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent, creamy goodness that comforts the soul
Umami-packed mushrooms complement the garlicky rice perfectly
Quick to prepare and equally delightful for everyday meals or special occasions

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, prized for its high starch content, which gives the dish its signature creaminess. When cooked, Arborio releases starch, creating a luxurious texture that coats each grain and delivers a satisfying bite. Make sure to choose high-quality Arborio rice, as this will significantly impact the final dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with other risotto rice varieties like Carnaroli, but avoid long-grain rice as it won't yield the same creamy results.

When preparing Arborio rice, keep an eye on the cooking process. It should remain al dente, which means it should have a slight bite and not be overly mushy. This will ensure that the texture complements the sautéed mushrooms and creamy sauce, creating a harmonious mouthfeel. A good tip here is to taste the rice near the end of the cooking time to check for doneness, as cooking times may vary depending on the stove and pot used.

Perfecting the Mushroom Technique

The choice of mushrooms can alter the flavor profile significantly, so select varieties that you enjoy. Common choices like cremini or shiitake add rich, earthy notes, while button mushrooms are milder and more subtle. Sautéing the mushrooms until they're browned and their moisture has evaporated is essential. This deepens their flavor and gives you that nice umami punch. If you skip this step, you may end up with a watery, less flavorful dish.

While cooking the mushrooms, be careful not to overcrowd the pan. This can cause them to steam instead of brown, resulting in a less appealing texture. If you have a large quantity, consider sautéing them in batches. Additionally, for an extra burst of flavor, you can finish the dish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a splash of truffle oil rather than just relying on salt and pepper.

Ingredients

For the Mushroom Garlic Rice

2 cups arborio rice
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced (any variety)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring it doesn't brown.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms are browned and their moisture has evaporated, around 8-10 minutes.

Add the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice, coating it with the oil and mushroom mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges of the rice are translucent.

Deglaze and Cook

Pour in a splash of white wine (if using) to deglaze the pot. Allow it to reduce for a minute before slowly adding the broth, one cup at a time, stirring often until the rice is creamy and al dente, around 18-20 minutes.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the creamy mushroom garlic rice hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. If you want to switch it up, try adding spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. To make ahead, cook the dish fully and allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a little extra broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge.

If you want to save some time during meal prep, you can also pre-chop the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them right before cooking. This saves you valuable minutes during busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the hassle.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice is versatile enough to serve as either a side dish or a main course. If you’re looking for an elegant side, pair it with grilled chicken or seared fish. The rich flavors of the rice complement mild meats beautifully. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the creaminess of the dish.

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs or a drizzle of truffle oil. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor with aromatic notes. For a touch of acidity, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish, elevating the earthy richness of the mushrooms.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of arborio?

Brown rice can be used but will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Arborio rice is recommended for its creaminess.

→ Can leftover rice be reheated?

Yes, leftover rice can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra broth or water to maintain the creaminess.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ What kind of mushrooms work best?

Any variety works well, but a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms adds great depth of flavor.