Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil

Name: Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil
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 sliced mushrooms (e.g., cremini or button); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Favorites

I absolutely love making creamy mushroom rice with garlic oil because it combines comforting flavors with a touch of elegance. The earthy mushrooms meld beautifully with the richness of the creamy sauce, creating a dish that's perfect for any occasion. We often whip this up as a side for our family dinners, and it never fails to impress! Plus, the garlic oil drizzled on top adds an aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:58:36.459Z

When I crafted this creamy mushroom rice for the first time during a cozy winter evening, I never expected it to become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of sautéed garlic and earthy mushrooms is truly a match made in heaven. I remember adding a splash of white wine, which not only enhanced the flavors but also created a beautiful depth that surprised my palate.

The secret to the creaminess lies in the gradual addition of vegetable broth while stirring the rice. This method ensures each grain absorbs the flavors, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. If you can find fresh herbs to sprinkle on top, don’t hesitate; they take it to another level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Richly creamy and satisfying with every bite
Earthy mushroom flavor enhanced by garlic oil
Quick to prepare and perfect for any meal occasion

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a key ingredient in creamy mushroom rice because of its high starch content, which gives the dish its signature creaminess. When cooked properly, Arborio rice releases starch, creating a luscious texture that envelops the mushrooms and enhances the overall flavor. Make sure to stir the rice frequently during cooking to encourage even absorption of the broth, which is important to achieve that rich, creamy consistency.

If you can't find Arborio rice, you can substitute with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice, which also have similar textures and starch levels. While long-grain rice varieties won't yield the same creamy results, in a pinch, you could use a short-grain rice like sushi rice. Just keep in mind that the cooking method and timing may slightly vary.

Perfecting the Garlic Oil

The garlic oil adds an intense flavor that complements the earthy mushrooms perfectly. Sautéing the garlic until golden not only infuses the oil but also enhances its aroma. Be cautious not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter—just a minute or two over medium heat is usually optimal. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can add the garlic in the last minute of cooking instead.

For those looking to switch up the flavor profile, consider infusing the oil with herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the garlic. This not only adds depth but also pairs wonderfully with mushrooms. Just remember to strain out the herbs after cooking if you prefer a smooth finish, allowing the garlic to be the star of the show.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy mushroom rice can be served on its own as a comforting main dish or as a rich side that pairs beautifully with chicken or steak. To elevate the presentation, drizzle a little more garlic oil and sprinkle fresh parsley right before serving. You can also complement it with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

For a vegetarian twist, add roasted veggies like asparagus or baby spinach right before serving. If you’re craving a protein addition, grilled shrimp or sautéed tofu would also work wonderfully. Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to bring unique flavors and textures to your dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience!

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms (e.g., cremini or button)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to check your pantry for any necessary ingredients before cooking.

Instructions

Prep your ingredients ahead to streamline the cooking process.

Prepare the garlic oil

In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Sauté the mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil. Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the liquid is absorbed.

Continue simmering

Gradually add the remaining vegetable broth, one cup at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. This should take about 15-20 minutes in total.

Finish the dish

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then drizzle the garlic oil over the top. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve warm

Plate the creamy mushroom rice and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Serve immediately and enjoy the rich flavors of your hard work!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly. You can also substitute different types of mushrooms according to your preference. Adding a splash of truffle oil at the end can enhance the aroma further!

Make-Ahead and Storage

Creamy mushroom rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. This will help restore the creamy texture that’s so delightful without drying it out.

If you want to freeze the dish, ensure it cools completely first, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to a month. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of liquid to get it back to its creamy perfection.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice ends up too sticky, it could be a result of adding too much broth too quickly or stirring too aggressively. Keep a gentle simmer and add the broth gradually, allowing each addition to absorb fully. This helps achieve that desired, creamy texture without clumping.

On the other hand, if the rice is too dry or undercooked, it might need more time or liquid. When cooked properly, Arborio rice should have a slight al dente bite. In such cases, add in small amounts of broth, cover, and cook for a few additional minutes, checking frequently until it's just right.

Adjusting for Dietary Preferences

For those with dairy restrictions, you can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy, making it a fantastic option for enhancing the dish’s complexity while keeping it plant-based.

Additionally, if you're looking to reduce the carbohydrates, consider using cauliflower rice as a base. Adjusting the cooking time is essential here, as cauliflower rice cooks much faster, so add it towards the end of your mushroom sautéing process to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it requires more cooking time and additional liquid. Adjust the cooking process accordingly.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

While the rice can be frozen, the texture may change upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply use a vegan cheese substitute instead of Parmesan and ensure the vegetable broth you use is completely plant-based.

→ What can I serve with creamy mushroom rice?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or as a base for a hearty protein like shrimp.