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 sliced mushrooms (cremini and shiitake mix); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons garlic oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Daily Planning

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil on cozy evenings when I want something comforting yet sophisticated. The earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with the rich creaminess of the rice creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's quick to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to the table, making it an instant favorite in our household.

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:37:35.597Z

When I first attempted this Creamy Mushroom Rice, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could yield such incredible flavor. I experimented with various types of mushrooms and settled on a mix of cremini and shiitake for balancing earthiness and depth. The addition of garlic oil not only adds flavor, but also a beautiful aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everyone feel at home.

One particular tip I've honed over the years is to let the rice absorb the mushroom broth slowly. Patience is key! By adding the broth gradually, I ensure that the rice becomes perfectly creamy while still holding onto that slight bite. It’s a delightful experience I can’t wait to share with you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Luxuriously creamy texture that's deeply satisfying
Savory mushroom flavor complemented by aromatic garlic oil
Versatile dish that works as a side or a star attraction

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy consistency that defines this dish. Its high starch content releases during cooking, creating a velvety texture that binds the flavors together beautifully. When toasting the rice, aim for a slight translucency—this indicates that it’s absorbing the flavors from the garlic oil and mushrooms, which elevates the overall taste experience. If you can’t find Arborio, short-grain brown rice is a decent substitute, though the cooking time will be longer.

When cooking risotto-style dishes like this one, the gradual addition of broth is crucial. This technique allows the rice to absorb liquid slowly, preventing it from becoming mushy. Keep a ladle of broth close by, stirring continuously until the liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding more. For a perfect bite, you want the rice to be al dente—soft on the outside but slightly firm in the center.

Flavor Boosts and Variations

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when toasting the rice. This not only enhances the taste but also adds an aromatic dimension that beautifully complements the mushrooms. Alternatively, try incorporating some freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end for a richer flavor profile; just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly since it can add saltiness.

If you prefer a protein-packed version, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be added after the rice is nearly cooked. This addition turns the dish from a side into a hearty main course. For a plant-based twist, swapping heavy cream for coconut milk will give it a unique flavor while keeping it dairy-free, but it will alter the overall taste slightly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini and shiitake mix)
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons garlic oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you’re good to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Mushroom Rice:

Cook the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of garlic oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Mushrooms

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften and brown slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the oil and mushroom mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until it’s slightly translucent.

Incorporate the Broth

Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed. Continue adding the broth, one ladle at a time, allowing it to absorb before adding more.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked and creamy, add the heavy cream and the remaining garlic oil. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning as needed. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your comforting dish!

Your Creamy Mushroom Rice is now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, try incorporating a splash of white wine when adding the broth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Mushroom Rice can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent dish for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to make it a day ahead, consider reducing the cooking time slightly, as reheating may further soften the rice.

To reheat, place the rice in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until warmed through, and you might want to check seasoning, as flavors can sometimes mellow during refrigeration.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your risotto turns out too thick or gluey, it may have been overcooked or had too much heat. I recommend keeping the heat at medium to low while adding broth slowly. If you find it still overly thick, just stir in a little more broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conversely, if you find the rice remains too firm, it might need additional cooking time or broth. Simply continue stirring and adding more broth in small increments until it achieves that perfect creamy texture. Remember, patience is key in risotto cooking!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

While Arborio rice provides the best creaminess, you can use other short-grain rice varieties, but the texture will vary.

→ Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian, especially if you use vegetable broth.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

We recommend making it fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook it right before serving.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy rice pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a side salad, or a protein of your choice.