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
Scale
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
