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: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice recipe. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and a rich flavor profile to our dinner table. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and creamy rice creates a delicious harmony that I can't resist. Whether as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is a great way to elevate your meal. Plus, it’s quite simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:28:08.943Z

During one of my cooking experiments, I stumbled upon this delightful combination of creamy rice and mushrooms, and it quickly became a family favorite. The key was ensuring that the rice absorbed all the flavors from the sautéed garlic and mushrooms. I’ve found that using Arborio rice for its creamy texture makes a substantial difference in achieving that luscious mouthfeel I love.

Another tip I discovered is to finish the dish with a dash of white wine, which adds depth and complexity to the flavors. My family now requests this dish regularly, and it never fails to impress our guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting texture that satisfies at every bite
Earthy mushrooms paired with aromatic garlic for deep flavor
Quick to make, perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice dish for a reason. Its high starch content lends an exquisite creaminess as it cooks, resulting in a velvety texture. Unlike regular long-grain rice, Arborio absorbs liquid slowly, allowing it to release starch gradually. This quality is key in achieving that signature creamy consistency while still keeping the rice al dente. When shopping for Arborio, look for grains that are slightly opaque rather than clear to ensure optimum quality.

If you can’t find Arborio rice, a good substitute would be Carnaroli or Vialone Nano, both of which offer similar creamy results. Alternatively, for a lighter dish, you can use a short-grain white rice, but remember that the texture will differ slightly. Use about the same quantity, but watch the cooking time to avoid mushiness.

Enhancing Flavor with White Wine

Adding white wine to this recipe serves a dual purpose: it deglazes the pan to lift any aromatic bits off the bottom and deepens the flavor profile of the dish. When selecting a wine, opt for a dry white such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio; their acidity helps balance the richness of the cream. If you prefer to skip the wine altogether, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegetable broth mixed with a splash of lemon juice to maintain a vibrant taste.

Remember to let the wine simmer until mostly absorbed before adding the broth. This step allows the alcohol to evaporate while leaving intense flavor behind. Keep an eye on it; it should look almost dry, with the rice glistening in the remaining liquid — that’s your cue to add the broth gradually.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice can be made ahead of time, making weeknight dinners easier. If storing, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creaminess and prevent drying out. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, giving it a good stir to incorporate the added liquid until heated through.

For serving, this creamy rice pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or as a comforting base for sautéed greens. You can also elevate it by mixing in some grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese just before serving for an extra touch of richness and flavor. Don't hesitate to crown your dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant finish!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful experience:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Your ingredients are ready. Let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy mushroom garlic rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and browned.

Toast the Rice

Next, add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring it with the vegetables for about 2 minutes. This step helps to enhance the flavors.

Add Liquids

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed. Then, gradually add the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked and creamy, mix in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm, and enjoy the creamy goodness!

You’re now ready to enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom garlic rice!

Pro Tips

To add even more flavor, consider incorporating some grated Parmesan cheese before serving, enhancing the creaminess even further. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake with creamy rice dishes like this one is rushing the addition of liquid. Always add the broth gradually, allowing each ladle to be absorbed before adding the next. This gives the rice time to cook properly and release its starch, leading to the desired creaminess. Overheating the pan can also cause the rice to cook unevenly, so keep the heat at a steady medium throughout.

Another issue to watch out for is under-seasoning. Since this dish contains ingredients that can dull the flavors, taste and adjust your seasonings towards the end of cooking. A little extra salt and pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors significantly, bringing all the components together.

Variations to Try

To give your Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice a twist, consider adding other vegetables like spinach, peas, or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking. These not only enhance the color but also add nutritional value. If you’re looking to add protein, cooked chicken or shrimp can be tossed in right at the end, allowing it to warm through without overcooking.

For a fun flavor variation, try incorporating different types of mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for deeper earthiness. You can even experiment with adding herbs like thyme or sage, which complement the dish wonderfully. A hint of nutmeg can also bring an unexpected sweetness that rounds out the savory elements beautifully.

Meal Prep Tips

Preparing ingredients in advance can streamline your cooking process. Chop onions and garlic the day before, and slice your mushrooms to save time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. This way, when it's time to cook, everything is ready to go, minimizing the time spent in the kitchen.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, cool the dish completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be kept frozen for up to two months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but Arborio rice is recommended for its creamy texture. Other types may not yield the same results.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the sautéed garlic and onions for a spicy kick.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, simply reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen it up and restore creaminess.