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 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced; 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil because it combines rich flavors with a comforting texture. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, and the aromatic garlic oil elevates the dish into something truly special. It's one of those meals that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to whip up on a weekday. I particularly enjoy how the mushrooms infuse the rice with their earthy goodness, making it a delightful side or a satisfying main. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating myself!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:23:35.613Z

When I first made this Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil, I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavors melded together. The secret lies in the garlic oil, which I infuse by gently warming garlic in olive oil to extract all its aromatic goodness. This step creates a depth of flavor that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dish.

I've experimented with different types of mushrooms, and my favorite combination is a mix of cremini and shiitake. They provide a rich texture and umami flavor that makes each bite delectable. I like to finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for brightness, which balances the creaminess so beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Indulgently creamy yet simple to prepare
Aromatic garlic oil enhances the overall flavor
Versatile enough to serve with a variety of proteins

      

Essential Cooking Techniques

Cooking Arborio rice correctly is crucial for achieving that creamy, risotto-like texture. It's important to toast the rice briefly in the pan after adding it to the mushrooms and garlic oil. This process, which takes about 2-3 minutes over medium heat, not only enhances the flavor but also helps the rice better absorb liquids. Stir the rice continuously during this time, ensuring the grains are coated evenly without sticking.

While adding the vegetable broth, patience is key. Incorporate it gradually—one cup at a time. Allow the rice to absorb nearly all the liquid before adding more. This technique allows the starches to release from the rice and create a rich, creamy consistency. You'll know it's time to add more broth when the rice appears slightly glossy and just about covered in the broth.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of mushrooms is pivotal in this recipe. Cremini and shiitake mushrooms bring a complex flavor profile, with the former adding a mild earthiness and the latter offering a more robust, umami punch. If you’re looking for a quicker alternative, button mushrooms can be substituted, but they will deliver a less intense flavor. Always aim for fresh mushrooms to get the best flavor and texture.

Heavy cream is what will give this dish its signature creamy quality, but you can substitute it with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version without sacrificing too much texture. If you need a lighter option, a combination of half-and-half and a bit of cornstarch can work too, though the final result won't be as rich.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Mushroom Rice serves beautifully on its own, but it’s versatile enough to pair with protein-rich dishes. Consider accompanying it with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even a simple pan-seared tofu for a vegetarian option. A sprinkle of Parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil right before serving can elevate the dish even further, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.

For a bit of variation, you might incorporate some spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking process. Adding greens not only enhances the nutritional profile but also provides a lovely color contrast. Just stir them in when adding the heavy cream; they'll wilt down perfectly within a couple of minutes!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil:

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown.

Cook the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the Rice

Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the mushrooms and garlic oil.

Incorporate Broth

Gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.

Add Cream

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, drizzle with remaining garlic oil, and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh mushrooms and quality vegetable broth. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Creamy Mushroom Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave it on medium power, stirring occasionally, or heat gently on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but with the proper care, leftovers can still retain a good level of creaminess and flavor.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the rice and mushrooms up to the point of adding the cream. Store this mixture in the refrigerator and finish the dish with the cream and any additional ingredients just before serving. This can help save time on busy weeknights while still delivering a fresh and enjoyable meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your rice is too thick or sticky, it might be due to inadequate liquid absorption. Next time, ensure you’re adding the broth gradually and are allowing enough time for it to absorb completely. If necessary, you can always add a little more liquid to achieve your desired consistency while reheating.

On the other hand, if your Creamy Mushroom Rice has turned out too soupy, you can remedy this by cooking it uncovered on low heat for a few minutes to allow some of the excess moisture to evaporate. Stir frequently to avoid burning and to help thicken the mixture gradually.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. If preparing for a larger group, simply double all ingredients, making sure to use a larger pan to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind that cooking times will remain relatively the same, but you may need to stir a bit longer to ensure even cooking and consistency.

Conversely, if you wish to make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients. Just be cautious with the liquid; even a small reduction can alter the rice's creaminess. Start with less broth and add more as needed to reach the desired texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure your vegetable broth is free from animal products.

→ What other mushrooms work well in this recipe?

You can use any combination of your favorite mushrooms like button, portobello, or oyster mushrooms.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, the rice can be made ahead of time. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, use gluten-free vegetable broth and check that your Arborio rice is certified gluten-free.