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: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh mushrooms, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine (optional); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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I absolutely love cooking, and this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice has become a staple in my kitchen. The creamy texture combined with the earthy flavor of mushrooms creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:40:37.614Z

When I first tried making mushroom rice, I was amazed at how much depth of flavor I could get from just a few simple ingredients. I remember sautéing the mushrooms until they released their rich umami flavor, and that set the perfect base for the creamy rice. By using arborio rice, which is often used for risotto, I achieved that desired creaminess without the need for heavy cream.

Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned this recipe to balance the flavors, and using a splash of white wine enhanced the dish further. It's truly a comforting meal that brings warmth to any table, and I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that wraps around each grain of rice
Savory mushroom flavor that enriches every bite
Quick and easy preparation for any weeknight dinner

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture that defines this dish. Unlike regular long-grain rice, Arborio contains a high amount of amylopectin, which is a type of starch that releases during cooking. This creates that signature creaminess you want in a risotto-style dish. When toasting the rice, be careful not to overcook it. You want to maintain a slight bite, achieving a perfect al dente texture that's delightfully satisfying against the soft mushrooms.

If you can’t find Arborio rice, you could use another short-grain variety like Carnaroli or even sushi rice in a pinch. However, avoid using long-grain rice, as it won't deliver the same creamy consistency. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the rice in case you need to add a bit more broth.

Mushroom Choices and Flavor Enhancements

The choice of mushrooms significantly influences the flavor profile of this dish. I love using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for their deep, earthy notes. Shiitakes bring an umami kick, while creminis add a subtle sweetness. If you prefer, you could even experiment with oyster or portobello mushrooms. Just remember to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor release.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. This will enrich the creaminess even more, making the dish truly indulgent. You can also incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or sage during cooking for a fragrant lift that complements the mushroom essence perfectly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen the mixture and warm it up gently on the stove. This prevents the rice from becoming too dry or clumping together.

If you're planning to freeze leftovers, note that the creamy texture may change slightly. However, it will still taste delicious. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat with a touch of cream to help revive that creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh mushrooms, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Steps to Make One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent. Then, add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they are soft and have released their moisture.

Toast the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and toast it for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors from the pot.

Add Liquids

If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly evaporated. Then add the vegetable broth, stirring to combine.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and tender.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Allow it to heat through for a few minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy this rich and creamy dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process. You can also substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a meatier taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal. The acidity of the dressing complements the richness of the creamy rice, creating a delightful contrast. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner set-up that doesn’t require much extra preparation.

For a more elevated experience, consider garnishing your dish with sautéed greens or a drizzle of truffle oil. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top adds a nice crunch, enhancing the overall texture while introducing a nutty flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue with creamy rice dishes is the risk of burning or sticking to the pot. To avoid this, keep the heat at medium to low once you add the liquids, and stir occasionally, especially towards the end of cooking. If you notice the rice sticking, gently scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to free it up without breaking the grains.

If your rice isn't creamy enough after cooking, it may need a little extra liquid. You can stir in a bit more broth or cream off the heat, allowing it to absorb for a minute before serving. Conversely, if your rice is too soupy, simply simmer it uncovered for a few additional minutes, stirring frequently until it reaches your desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

Arborio rice is best for creaminess, but you can use other types like medium-grain rice if needed.

→ Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ How long does this dish keep in the fridge?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans for a protein boost.