Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil

Name: Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

Highlighted under: Natural Planning

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil for a cozy dinner at home. The earthy flavor of mushrooms combined with the richness of cream makes this dish incredibly satisfying. What I enjoy the most is the simple method that elevates basic ingredients into something special. With just a few steps and a bit of patience, I bring together the creamy texture of the rice and the fragrant aroma of garlic oil, making it perfect for a comforting meal or an impressive side dish.

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:49:35.043Z

Making Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil was an experiment that turned into one of my favorite comfort foods. I wanted to create a dish that would showcase the umami of mushrooms while being rich and creamy without being overly heavy. I found that adding garlic oil towards the end really lifts the dish, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the delicate cream.

One specific detail that I learned is to sauté the mushrooms until they're golden brown before adding the rice. This adds depth and prevents the rice from becoming too mushy. The result is a creamy, satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent creaminess complementing savory mushrooms
Fragrant garlic oil that enhances every bite
Easy-to-follow steps that yield impressive results

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice is crucial for achieving the creamy texture that defines this dish. This short-grain rice is rich in amylopectin, a type of starch that, when cooked, releases a natural creaminess. As you stir the rice during the cooking process, it gradually becomes plush and thick. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it will not absorb liquid as effectively and won't yield the same velvety outcome.

For best results, toast the Arborio rice in the pot for about two minutes before adding broth. This process enhances the nutty flavor and helps the rice maintain its structure. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be slightly translucent but not browned, ensuring you achieve that perfect al dente bite.

Perfecting Your Garlic Oil

The garlic oil is a game-changer for this dish, adding a fragrant, aromatic depth to every spoonful. When making your garlic oil, keep the heat low. If you go too high, the garlic can quickly turn bitter and burnt, ruining the delicate balance of flavors. Sauté the garlic until it's golden brown; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Let it infiltrate the oil, but don't rush it—patience here yields a more intense flavor.

You can customize your garlic oil by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during the infusion process. Consider using a blend of olive oil with a touch of butter for a richer flavor. Just remember to strain the oil before drizzling it over your dish, ensuring you only get the fragrant liquid without any burnt bits.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Making this dish ahead of time can save you valuable dinner prep time. You can cook the creamy mushroom rice in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and heat gently on the stove, stirring frequently to ensure even warmth and a creamy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat according to the previous method. The beauty of this dish is its ability to retain flavor and creaminess, even after freezing, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Mushroom Rice

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

For the Garlic Oil

1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

Prepare these ingredients to get started on this delightful dish!

Steps

Prepare Garlic Oil

In a small pan, warm the olive oil over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, being careful not to burn it. Once done, remove from heat and let it infuse.

Sauté Vegetables

In a larger pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they are browned.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and allow it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed.

Add Cream

Once the rice is al dente, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for a few more minutes until creamy.

Finish with Garlic Oil

Drizzle the prepared garlic oil over the rice and gently fold it in. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this creamy delight alongside your favorite protein or as a satisfying main course!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. It's an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad. If you want to elevate it to a complete meal, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp for a protein boost.

To add a pop of color and flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance the dish's richness and add a salty contrast to the creaminess. For a twist, try serving with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for acidity.

Variations to Try

Feel free to play around with the mushrooms in this recipe. While button or cremini mushrooms work beautifully, you can also experiment with shiitake or portobello for a more robust taste. Mixing in some wild mushrooms will enhance the earthiness and complexity of flavors in your dish.

To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Also, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a fully plant-based experience. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

While Arborio rice is preferred for its creaminess, you can use Carnaroli or even sushi rice as alternatives.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the vegetable broth is gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Certainly! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth without any animal products.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.