Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of rich, indulgent flavors, you’ve got to try this Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe. It brings together tender rice and golden sautéed mushrooms melded beautifully in a luscious, creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or enjoying it as a hearty vegetarian main, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With just one pot needed, it’s perfect for whipping up a satisfying meal any night of the week or adding a touch of elegance to your holiday table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that each play a key role in delivering incredible flavor and texture. From the earthiness of mushrooms to the richness of butter and cream, every item is essential in creating that perfect creamy consistency and savory depth.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy base that cooks perfectly to absorb all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the mushrooms to a golden perfection.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter with a slightly fruity note and prevents sticking.
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms (sliced): Delivers earthy, savory flavor and a meaty texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant punch that infuses the entire dish.
- ½ small onion (finely chopped): Introduces sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice with savory goodness.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herby aroma that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of warmth and bite.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty umami finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Offers a fresh, bright contrast and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Mushrooms
Start by warming the butter and olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once melted and sizzling, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re beautifully golden and have released their moisture. This step builds a deep, savory base that will shine throughout the dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Onion
Next, toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Cook everything together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the onion has softened and the garlic is fragrant without becoming bitter, creating the aromatic foundation for the rice to come.
Step 3: Incorporate the Rice
Stir the long-grain white rice directly into the mushroom mixture, coating each grain with the flavorful fats and sautéed veggies. This helps the rice start toasting lightly, which adds a subtle nuttiness and prevents it from turning mushy later on.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reducing the heat to low, cover the pan tightly and let it simmer undisturbed for 15 to 18 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the broth and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Once the rice is fully cooked and tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Gently fold in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture turns delectably creamy and smooth. Letting it sit for a few minutes gives the sauce time to thicken just right, making each mouthful irresistibly luscious.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top. It adds a lovely freshness and vibrant green color that makes the dish as inviting to the eyes as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh parsley, you can elevate your Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe by adding toasted pine nuts or a grating of extra Parmesan. A drizzle of truffle oil also pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms for a touch of luxury. These small additions add texture and flavor contrast that keep every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This creamy mushroom rice is a dream partner for grilled chicken breasts, juicy pan-seared steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian feast, pair it with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at dinner parties, spoon the creamy mushroom rice into hollowed-out roasted bell peppers or serve it alongside stuffed portobello mushrooms to double down on the mushroom magic. Alternatively, use it as a bed for a poached egg or crispy tofu to create a stunning and satisfying main dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra of this Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the rice for up to one month. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and be sure to leave some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the rice on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of broth or cream to revive its softness and creaminess. Microwaving works too; just cover tightly and add a little liquid to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of broth slightly to ensure it cooks through completely.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is! Simply use vegetable broth and it’s entirely vegetarian-friendly. You can also easily adapt it for vegans by swapping the butter for olive oil, using a plant-based cream, and omitting the Parmesan or replacing it with a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers make great additions that blend well with the creamy sauce and mushrooms, adding color and nutrition.
How long does it take to prepare the Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe?
The full process takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, with just 10 minutes for prep. It’s a quick one-pot meal that’s perfect when you want something impressive but not time-consuming.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, or leave it out altogether. The cream still creates a deliciously smooth texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm embrace every time you eat it. It’s simple yet so satisfying, with cozy textures and a depth of flavor that always impresses. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen!
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Creamy Mushroom Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Mushroom Rice is a cozy, savory side dish made with tender long-grain white rice, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, onion, and herbs all simmered together in a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting one-pot recipe combines the earthiness of mushrooms with a luscious blend of cream and Parmesan, making it a perfect accompaniment for chicken, steak, or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Ready in about 35 minutes, it’s ideal for easy weeknight dinners or elegant holiday tables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat fats and sauté mushrooms: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and hot. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released their moisture.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Mix in rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat each grain with the butter, oil, and mushroom mixture. This step helps to toast the rice lightly and enhances the flavor.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. Cook until the rice is tender, and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is creamy, rich, and well combined. Let the dish rest for a few minutes off heat to thicken to the perfect consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve the creamy mushroom rice warm as a delicious side dish or a vegetarian main.
Notes
- Swap in brown rice for a whole grain version but increase the cooking time and broth quantity accordingly.
- Add fresh spinach or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra veggies.
- For a complete meal, stir in cooked chicken pieces after simmering to warm through before adding cream and cheese.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish, or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
