One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice

Name: One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Effortless Plate Creations

I absolutely love making One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice! This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The richness of the creamy sauce combined with earthy mushrooms creates a comforting meal that I find myself turning to often. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when I want something that feels luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-pot aspect means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:36:36.033Z

When I first attempted this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together while still feeling indulgent. I sautéed the mushrooms until they were golden brown, allowing their flavor to deepen before adding the rice and stock. This technique ensures that every grain is infused with that umami goodness, making each bite a delight.

What really makes this dish stand out is the addition of a splash of cream at the end. It elevates the dish from simple to sensational, providing a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the savory mushrooms. I always sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Mushrooms packed with umami flavor in every bite
A simple one-pot recipe means less mess and fuss

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential for creating the creamy texture that defines this dish. Its high starch content allows it to absorb liquid while releasing creaminess, transforming the broth into a luxurious sauce. If you can’t find Arborio, Carnaroli rice is a great substitute, offering similar creaminess. However, avoid long-grain rice varieties, as they won't yield the same creamy consistency and may result in a drier dish.

For the best results, rinse Arborio rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming overly gummy. This simple step ensures that the grains remain separate yet creamy, enhancing the overall texture of your mushroom rice.

Mushroom Selection and Preparation

The choice of mushrooms significantly impacts the dish's flavor profile. While button mushrooms are a popular option, mixing in shiitake or cremini mushrooms can deepen the umami notes. To clean mushrooms, simply wipe them with a damp cloth instead of rinsing them under water, as they can absorb moisture and become soggy during cooking.

Slicing the mushrooms evenly ensures they cook uniformly, allowing for the perfect caramelization that adds depth to the dish. Cook until the mushrooms are golden and have released most of their moisture; this will intensify their flavor and contribute to the overall creaminess of the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth and warm it slowly over medium heat. This helps regain its creamy texture, as the rice will absorb any liquids during storage. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

If you want to keep portions for later, consider freezing the rice. Portion out individual servings and freeze them in airtight containers. To reheat frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then gently reheat on the stove with a bit of added cream for a rich finish.

Ingredients

Mushroom Rice Ingredients

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

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden.

Add the Rice

Pour in the Arborio rice and stir well to coat it with the mixture. Cook for about 2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent.

Incorporate the Broth

Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more, cooking for about 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy mushroom rice warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try including a splash of white wine before adding the broth. It enhances the overall depth of the dish!

Serving Suggestions

For a hearty meal, serve this creamy mushroom rice alongside grilled chicken or a light protein like sautéed shrimp. The rich, creamy flavor pairs excellently with simply seasoned proteins. You can also accompany it with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon to cut through the creaminess.

If you’re serving vegetarian guests, consider adding some sautéed spinach or kale into the mix before serving. It adds a vibrant color and boosts the nutritional profile without compromising the flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mushroom rice turns out too dry, it means that it didn’t absorb enough liquid during cooking. Next time, try adding the broth more gradually or ensure that you’re stirring continuously to help distribute heat evenly. Aim for a creamy consistency; it should not be like traditional dry rice.

On the flip side, if the dish becomes too wet or soup-like, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce excess liquid. Stir continuously to avoid burning on the bottom of the pot. You can also add a bit more Arborio rice to absorb some of the liquid if needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

While Arborio rice is ideal for this recipe due to its creamy texture, you can use other short-grain varieties. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth without any animal products.

→ What types of mushrooms work best?

I love using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms, but you can use any variety you prefer, including button mushrooms.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen up the rice.