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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

When I first made this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, I couldn’t believe how simple yet decadent it was. With just a handful of ingredients, I transformed a regular bowl of rice into a luscious side dish that stole the show at our dinner table. The earthy mushrooms and robust garlic create a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with anything grilled or roasted. I guarantee this recipe will become a go-to for elegant meals or cozy family nights.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:22:36.949Z

During one of my weekend cooking sessions, I decided to experiment with rice dishes and quickly landed on the idea of a creamy mushroom garlic rice. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and aromatic garlic worked wonders, making the rice not just a side, but a star in its own right. As I stirred in the cream, I watched it transform from simple grains into something rich and delightful.

One essential tip I learned was to let the rice absorb the stock completely before adding the cream. This technique ensures that every grain is infused with flavor and creates a perfect creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the rice. Believe me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Savory depth from fresh mushrooms and garlic
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes

      

Choosing the Right Rice

Using long-grain rice for this recipe ensures fluffy grains that separate well during cooking. This variety absorbs flavors beautifully while maintaining its structure. If you prefer, you can substitute with basmati rice, which adds a delightful nutty aroma. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the rice in the skillet with the olive oil before adding the broth. This technique enhances its nuttiness, making the final dish even richer. Just sauté until the grains shimmer and become slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes, before proceeding with the broth.

Exploring Cream Alternatives

While heavy cream lends a luxurious creaminess to this dish, you can explore lighter alternatives. For a healthier twist, try using half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness. Just remember that coconut milk might impart a different flavor, so it's best suited if you're aiming for a unique taste profile.

If you wish to make this dish dairy-free, plant-based creamers work well, too. Look for unsweetened versions to maintain the savory nature of the dish. Whichever alternative you choose, add it gradually and adjust the seasoning as necessary to ensure a balanced flavor.

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after stirring in the cream. This resting period thickens the rice and allows the flavors to meld. The end result should be a dish that's creamy, not soupy. If it seems dry, stir in a splash of broth to loosen it up without compromising the creaminess.

When reheating leftovers, I recommend adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Heat gently over low heat to avoid drying out the rice. This dish can easily be enjoyed the next day, maintaining its comforting flavors while adapting well to various meal occasions.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains in the oil and mushrooms. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Add Cream and Seasoning

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm as a side dish or a hearty main.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. It adds a nice umami kick to the dish that's hard to resist.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Its rich texture adds contrast to lean meats, and the earthy flavors enhance the natural sweetness of vegetables. For an elevated presentation, serve it in a shallow bowl garnished with additional herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a touch of salty brightness.

If you're hosting, consider serving this rice as part of a larger buffet. It complements a wide range of dishes like herb-crusted fish or spicy sausages. The versatility makes it easy to integrate into your menu without overshadowing other flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Cook the rice according to the instructions and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

To save time on busy weeknights, consider pre-slicing your mushrooms and garlic. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This ensures you can whip up this decadent dish in under 30 minutes, providing a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative and use vegetable broth.

→ What types of mushrooms work best?

I recommend using cremini or button mushrooms for their flavor, but you can experiment with shiitake or portobello for different tastes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored 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 tofu can be added to make this a complete meal.