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 broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Planning

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice for a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. The combination of earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and creamy sauce transforms simple rice into a luxurious dish that is sure to impress. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it's flavorful and can be customized with whatever vegetables I have on hand. Plus, it's perfect as a side or even a main course for cozy dinners.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-19T21:13:34.887Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The rich taste of the mushrooms paired with the punchy garlic creates a wonderful depth that elevates the dish. I learned that sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden brown enhances their flavor, making the final dish even more delicious.

One of my favorite tips is to finish the rice with a splash of cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving. It adds a lovely creaminess and freshness that makes this dish really stand out. I often serve it alongside grilled protein or roasted vegetables, and it never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavor from sautéed mushrooms and garlic
Creamy texture that elevates simple rice to gourmet status
Versatile - perfect as a side or main dish

Creating Depth with Sautéed Vegetables

The base of the Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice relies heavily on the sautéing process for the onions and garlic. Make sure your skillet is preheated over medium heat; this will help to release the natural sweetness from the onions while also creating a beautiful, fragrant aroma. Watch carefully as the garlic can turn golden in just seconds; you want it to be fragrant, not burnt. I often use a wooden spoon to stir frequently, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.

When adding the sliced mushrooms, opt for varieties like cremini or shiitake for their robust flavors. Cook the mushrooms until they are golden brown, releasing their moisture and intensifying their flavor—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Remember to not overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than sautéing; if necessary, do this in batches to achieve that golden edge.

Achieving the Perfect Creaminess

The addition of heavy cream transforms this dish into a luxurious experience. When pouring in the cream, do so on low heat to avoid curdling. Stir it in gently until the mixture is glossy and coats the rice beautifully. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream, keeping in mind that this may affect the overall flavor and texture slightly.

For those who enjoy a little extra flavor punch, adding a splash of soy sauce or nutritional yeast right before serving can elevate the umami profile. Additionally, if you want to lighten up the dish further, you can substitute a portion of the rice with cauliflower rice—just adjust the cooking time as cauliflower cooks much faster than traditional rice.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain rice with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Creamify

Once the rice is ready, add it to the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms and onions. Pour in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, you can mix in some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and onion. You can also replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply prepare the dish as instructed, allow it to cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm it gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency as it reheats.

This dish can also be frozen for up to three months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and when you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a bit of cream or broth to revive its luscious texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken, but it can also stand alone as a vegetarian main dish. For a more filling option, mix in some cooked spinach or kale just before serving for added color and nutrients. You could also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing step or even some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also add visual interest to the dish, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can use whatever mushrooms you have on hand, such as cremini, shiitake, or even portobello for a meatier texture.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and mushroom mixture in advance. Just reheat and add the cream before serving for the best texture.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, use vegetable broth and substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or almond milk.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Mushroom Garlic Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or even roasted vegetables. It's versatile enough to complement a variety of main dishes.