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 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mixed mushrooms, sliced (shiitake and button); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Inspiration

I absolutely adore making Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil at home. This dish brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the fragrant garlic oil to create a truly delightful experience. The creamy texture perfectly coats each grain of rice, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, I've transformed my meals into something extraordinary, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T21:01:35.808Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Mushroom Rice, I was amazed at how simple yet elegant it could be. I experimented with various types of mushrooms and found that a mix of shiitake and button mushrooms adds a wonderful depth of flavor. The key is to sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden, which enhances their natural umami.

Another tip I discovered is that using Arborio rice is the secret to achieving that creamy consistency we all crave. The rice releases its starch as it cooks, creating a luxurious sauce that binds everything together beautifully. Trust me, this dish is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory mushroom flavors enhanced by aromatic garlic oil
Creamy texture that makes every bite a delight
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs or proteins

Understanding Arborio Rice

One of the standout ingredients in Creamy Mushroom Rice is Arborio rice. This short-grain rice is essential for achieving that creamy texture synonymous with risotto. Its high starch content is released during the cooking process, creating a luscious sauce that clings to each grain. For best results, avoid rinsing the Arborio rice before cooking, as this can wash away the starch that helps create that creamy consistency.

When cooking Arborio rice, it's crucial to maintain a consistent simmer. If the heat is too high, you'll risk burning the rice or having it cook unevenly. Instead, aim for a medium flame and stir frequently. This gentle approach allows the rice to release its starch gradually, ensuring that your dish has a beautiful, smooth texture.

Customizing Your Creamy Mushroom Rice

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for a mix of shiitake and button mushrooms, you can easily swap these out for other varieties like cremini or portobello, depending on your taste preferences. Just be sure to slice them evenly so they cook uniformly and blend seamlessly into the creamy base.

For those seeking extra protein, adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even plant-based options like lentils or chickpeas can enhance this dish significantly. If you choose to add proteins, ensure they are pre-cooked and warm before stirring them in with the heavy cream and seasonings, to maintain the dish's overall temperature and creaminess.

Ingredients

For the Rice

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

For the Garlic Oil

1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil and sliced garlic. Heat over low heat until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove from heat and stir in red pepper flakes, if using. Set aside.

Cook the Rice and Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're tender and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

Combine and Finish

Slowly add the vegetable broth to the rice mixture, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more. This process will take about 15 minutes. Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, drizzled with the garlic oil and garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when adding the broth. It enhances the overall complexity of the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, Creamy Mushroom Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the rice, as it tends to thicken when chilled. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring regularly until warmed through. This method helps preserve the creamy texture without drying it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing your mushroom rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. Keep in mind that while it will still be tasty, freezing may slightly alter the texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Mushroom Rice experience, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness and acidity from a salad can beautifully balance the rich creaminess of the rice, creating a well-rounded meal. If you're feeling indulgent, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of savory flavor.

For a more elegant presentation, you can plate the rice using a ring mold, creating a tower of creamy goodness on each plate. Top with additional sautéed mushrooms and a drizzle of garlic oil for a restaurant-quality dish right at home. This technique not only makes for a stunning presentation but also allows each guest to mix the flavors as they choose.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular rice instead of Arborio?

Arborio rice is recommended for its creamy texture. Regular rice may not achieve the same consistency.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp makes a great addition to this creamy rice.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetable broth. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.