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 assorted mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, etc.), sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; Pinch of red pepper flakes

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Rice with Garlic Oil when I want a satisfying yet simple dish. The combination of savory mushrooms and rich garlic oil creates a luxurious flavor that's hard to resist. Plus, the creamy texture of the rice makes every bite feel indulgent and comforting. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to add it to your regular rotation of favorites.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:33:35.866Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together beautifully. The hearty mushrooms add depth, while the garlic oil adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish. I've found that sautéing the garlic until it’s just barely golden gives it the perfect balance of flavor without being too harsh.

One of my favorite tips is to use a mix of different mushrooms, like cremini and shiitake, for added texture and taste. This not only enhances the dish, but it also makes it visually appealing. The creaminess of the rice, enhanced by a splash of broth, makes this a crowd-pleaser every time.

        You'll Love This Recipe Because:
        The rich umami flavor from the mushrooms
Creamy texture that brings comfort to your meal
The aromatic garlic oil adds an irresistible fragrance

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential to achieving the creamy texture in this dish. Unlike regular rice, Arborio is high in amylopectin, a starch that gives risotto its characteristic creaminess. When cooked, the grains absorb liquids while releasing this starch, creating a rich, velvety mouthfeel. It's crucial to stir the rice often, as this promotes the release of starch while preventing sticking.

If Arborio isn't available, you can substitute with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice. While these produce a similar creamy texture, they may require slight adjustments in cooking time and liquid amounts. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter option, short-grain brown rice can work; just note it'll take longer to cook and yield a less creamy result.

Perfecting the Garlic Oil

The garlic oil can elevate the dish dramatically, providing a deliciously fragrant and robust flavor. To avoid burning the garlic— which can turn bitter—keep the heat at medium and watch it closely. Cook until the garlic turns a light golden hue, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Letting it cool slightly after cooking will enhance the flavor further as it sits.

For those who prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the garlic amount or use roasted garlic instead, which offers a sweeter, less aggressive taste. The red pepper flakes can also be adjusted according to your heat preference; feel free to omit them for a completely neutral oil or increase for additional kick.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Rice is best served immediately while hot and fresh. However, if you're making it ahead of time, allow it to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to help restore its texture, as it can thicken upon cooling.

For a variations twist, consider adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving. This addition enhances the umami flavor and complements the mushrooms beautifully. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or protein for a heartier meal, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Mushroom Rice

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

For the Garlic Oil

1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook slowly until the garlic is golden brown, then remove from heat and set aside.

Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with garlic oil before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine while cooking the rice. It adds acidity and enhances the richness of the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the rice is too firm at the end of cooking, simply add a little more broth, cover, and let it simmer for a few more minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the additional liquid while remaining al dente. Alternatively, if you've made it too watery, you can let it sit over low heat for a few minutes uncovered until the desired consistency is achieved.

Another common issue is the garlic oil burning during preparation. If this happens, you might find the garlic flavor overpowering or bitter. In such cases, start over with fresh oil and lower the heat to medium, allowing for a more controlled infusion of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. For larger gatherings, simply double the ingredients, keeping the same ratios for liquid and solids. Remember that cooking time may vary slightly, so taste the rice as it approaches the 20-minute mark to ensure it's cooked to your liking.

If you're scaling down and only need a single serving, consider using just 1/4 cup of Arborio rice and adjust the broth and other ingredients accordingly. It’s a thoughtful way to experience this delicious dish without significant waste while still enjoying its creamy richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

While Arborio rice is recommended for its creaminess, you can try using jasmine rice as a substitute.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and vegetable broth for a delicious vegan version.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the mushroom rice ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving. Add a splash of broth to recapture creaminess.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of added broth.