Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil

Name: Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Home Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil because it's a comforting dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and each time I prepare it, I'm transported to a cozy restaurant setting. The secret lies in the garlic-infused oil that elevates the earthy mushrooms and creamy rice, making every bite a delight. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:49:43.653Z

When I first stumbled across the idea of combining mushrooms with rice, I was skeptical but intrigued. I decided to experiment with some garlic oil to add depth to the dish. As I stirred the creamy rice and watched the mushrooms cook down, I realized I was onto something really special. It was a game-changer that brought out the best in each ingredient!

What I particularly love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can adjust the flavors with different herbs or even add chicken for a heartier meal. The key tip? Make sure to use arborio rice for that perfect creaminess and stay patient while stirring. It’s worth every minute!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that soothes the soul
Earthy flavors enhanced by fragrant garlic oil
Perfect for a quick meal, yet elegant enough for entertaining

Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Creamy Rice

When cooking Arborio rice, the key to achieving that signature creamy texture lies in the gradual addition of the vegetable broth. This technique, known as 'risotto method', allows the rice to absorb the liquid slowly, releasing its starches and creating a velvety consistency. Stir frequently during this process—about a ladle every 5 minutes—until you notice the rice is slightly al dente yet still creamy. If you ever find the rice too dry before it's done, simply add a splash of broth.

Another crucial step is ensuring your broth is warm when added to the rice. Cold broth can shock the rice and cause it to cook unevenly. Keep your broth on low heat in a separate pan, so it’s ready to incorporate when needed. This little detail can make a big difference in both texture and cooking time.

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic Oil

The garlic oil not only infuses the rice with robust flavors but also complements the earthy notes of the mushrooms perfectly. To make the oil even more flavorful, consider letting the garlic infuse in the olive oil for a few extra minutes on a lower heat if you want a more pronounced garlic taste. Just be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter; it should be golden but not browned.

You can also play around with the herbs in the garlic oil. While thyme and parsley are fantastic, adding a pinch of rosemary can introduce another layer of depth. Don't hesitate to adjust the herbs according to your personal preference, making the dish distinctly your own.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your creamy mushroom rice.

For the Rice

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Oil

1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Mushrooms

2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to have fresh herbs on hand for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy mushroom rice.

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until golden, about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and parsley, then remove from heat.

Cook the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, add butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for another 2 minutes. Gradually add vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.

Finish the Dish

Once the rice is al dente and creamy, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and the garlic oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Serve the creamy mushroom rice hot, garnished with more parsley if desired.

Enjoy your meal with a side salad for a complete dinner!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the mushrooms for added depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Mushroom Rice can be made ahead of time for a quick weeknight meal. Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the heavy cream and garlic oil, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove, adding a touch of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture as it warms.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish freezes well too. Transfer cooled rice into freezer-safe bags and store for up to a month. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Just remember to stir in a bit of extra cream or broth to bring the consistency back to that delightful creamy state.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Creamy Mushroom Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a well-rounded meal. For a vegetarian option, roasted asparagus or a fresh garden salad can add brightness and crunch to your plate, balancing the richness of the rice.

You might also want to elevate the dish by garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving. This simple addition can transform the dish into a gourmet experience, perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself on a cozy evening at home.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

While brown rice can be used, it will change the texture and cooking time. Arborio rice is crucial for the creaminess.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes! Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian-friendly and omit the cheese if you're vegan.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic oil and mushrooms ahead; simply reheat before mixing with the rice.

→ What proteins can I add?

Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be great additions to make it a heartier meal.