Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice

Name: Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love trying out new recipes, and this Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice is one of my favorites. The combination of creamy beans and fragrant garlic creates a dish that is incredibly satisfying. It's perfect as a comforting side or a fulfilling main course. I find that using fresh garlic and cooking the rice slowly helps to bring out rich flavors that truly elevate the dish. Whether you're cooking for family or just for yourself, this is one meal you'll want to savor!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:50:38.314Z

When I first made this Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice, I was blown away by the depth of flavor that comes from simmering the garlic with the rice. Using high-quality vegetable broth instead of plain water really makes a difference, adding a savory base that compliments the beans beautifully.

Another tip is to mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the rice. This creates a luscious creaminess that is just irresistible, making it feel like a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that embraces the rice perfectly
Garlic adds an aromatic depth that's hard to resist
Versatile enough for any meal, be it lunch or dinner

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

To achieve the best flavor and texture in this Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice, focus on the sautéing process. Heating the olive oil until gently shimmering before adding the garlic ensures that the aromatic oils are released without burning. Look for a light golden color in the garlic, as it indicates flavor development without bitter notes. This technique sets the stage for the rice to absorb the garlicky richness throughout the cooking process.

When introducing the rice to the garlic oil, be sure to stir it continuously for about one to two minutes. This not only coats the rice kernels evenly but also aids in toasting them, which enhances the overall flavor. If you see the grains beginning to look translucent, that’s a good indication that they’re ready for the broth.

Ingredients and Their Roles

The use of long-grain rice is essential in this recipe because it cooks up fluffy and separate rather than sticky. If you wish to experiment, jasmine or basmati rice can be excellent substitutions, providing a fragrant twist. Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps achieve that desired light texture.

White beans not only provide creaminess but also a hearty protein boost, making this dish filling. Cannellini or navy beans work well if you can't find standard white beans. If you're looking for a vegetarian protein alternative, consider adding cooked quinoa or lentils, which will change the texture but still complement the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring it to coat with the garlic oil. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and let simmer for 18 minutes.

Add the Beans

After 18 minutes, remove the lid and gently fold in the white beans. Cover again and let it sit for another 5-7 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and absorbed the liquid.

Finish and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy this creamy dish on its own or as a side.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice before serving or incorporate some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of creaminess.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy White Bean Garlic Rice is great for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the rice's texture.

If you want to prepare it for freezing, portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. It freezes well for up to three months. Just ensure the rice is cool before packing to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and add extra broth for creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins. For a cozy meal, try serving it alongside roasted chicken or a baked fish fillet. A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness nicely, making for a fulfilling lunch or dinner option.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider turning this dish into a one-pot meal! Simply add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers along with the white beans. This not only increases the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value. The added veggies will complement the creamy texture of the rice beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but note that the cooking time will increase to about 40-45 minutes.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are plant-based.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it and reheat when ready to eat. Just add a splash of water to help bring back creaminess when reheating.

→ What other beans can I use?

You can substitute with chickpeas or black beans if you prefer a different flavor.