Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice
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 fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Planning

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice for a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of creamy textures and savory parmesan creates a wonderfully rich dish that pairs perfectly with any protein. I’ve found that the secret to achieving that perfect creaminess lies in adding the spinach right at the end, allowing it to wilt just enough while keeping its vibrant color. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an easy option for busy evenings.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-19T21:49:34.302Z

I remember the first time I made Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice; it was an impromptu dinner for friends who came over last minute. I wanted something that was both impressive and easy to whip up. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I had struck gold. By using arborio rice, I achieved a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream, letting the parmesan do the heavy lifting.

This dish quickly became a favorite, as the bright green spinach added not only color but also a nutritional punch. I love that it’s versatile—easily adaptable to whatever vegetables or proteins I have on hand. Plus, it stores well as leftovers and reheats beautifully!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, decadent texture that is irresistibly comforting
Nutty flavor from the parmesan that elevates the dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Mastering the Creamy Texture

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice hinges on the technique of gradually adding the broth. The key is to add it one ladle at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid fully before adding more. This method not only ensures that the arborio rice releases its natural starches but also helps create that luxurious, velvety consistency. If your rice starts to look too dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of extra broth to maintain that creaminess.

Another important aspect is the final step of folding in the spinach and Parmesan. Adding the spinach at the end allows it to wilt perfectly without becoming overcooked. You want the vibrant green color and texture to shine. As for the Parmesan, make sure to use freshly grated cheese. It melts more uniformly and delivers a stronger flavor compared to pre-grated options. The end result should be a dish that’s not only creamy but also bursting with freshness and depth.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This dish can be a fantastic make-ahead option. Once cooked, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to revive the creaminess, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to avoid hot spots. If preferred, it can also be frozen for up to a month, though the texture may slightly change upon reheating.

When it comes to serving, I love pairing this creamy rice with grilled chicken or salmon for a complete meal. It also complements roasted vegetables beautifully. For a vegetarian option, try garnishing with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an added crunch. Also, consider adding different herbs like fresh basil or parsley for a burst of flavor to customize this dish to your palate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice:

Sauté Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook Rice

Stir in the arborio rice, letting it toast lightly for 2 minutes. Then, gradually add in the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked and creamy (about 18 minutes), fold in the chopped spinach. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Serve hot as a side dish or main course!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary needs, there are several easy substitutions to consider. For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, which can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Additionally, short-grain brown rice can be used in place of arborio rice for a whole grain option, though you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly since it takes longer to cook.

For those wanting to sneak in more greens, you can replace part of the spinach with kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to sauté those leafy greens a little longer to soften them up before adding the cheese, ensuring the dish remains rich and creamy without interfering with the flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your rice is not creamy enough, it could be that you haven’t added enough broth, or the rice hasn’t stirred properly to release its starches. Be sure to stir continuously and don't be shy about adding more liquid if it looks dry. A common mistake is cooking the rice on too high heat; keep it at a medium simmer to avoid burning the bottom while the rice slowly absorbs the broth.

Conversely, if your rice becomes too mushy, it may have been cooked for too long or with too much liquid. If this happens, try adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan to help absorb some of the excess moisture, and serve it as a risotto-style dish with a slightly smoother consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the rice.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can use any cheese you like, such as Gouda or Cheddar, but Parmesan enhances the creaminess best.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, this dish can be made gluten-free accordingly.