One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice

Name: One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Effortless Plate Creations

I love making One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice because it’s the ultimate comfort food that embodies warmth and richness in every bite. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights when I need something quick yet satisfying. The creamy texture from the cheese and the earthy flavor of the mushrooms combine perfectly, making it a dish my whole family enjoys. Plus, the best part is that it all comes together in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:52:39.344Z

When I first experimented with this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. I combined arborio rice with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, then let it simmer in rich vegetable broth. The key is to stir it frequently, as this helps release the starches from the rice, creating that luxurious creamy texture we all crave.

One tip that transformed my dish was adding a splash of white wine for depth of flavor. The wine complements the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully, enriching the overall taste. I’ve made this dish countless times, and it never fails to impress—perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that feels indulgent without the fuss
Satisfying umami flavor from fresh mushrooms
Quick cleanup with just one pot needed

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a key player in this dish, known for its high starch content that creates a creamy texture when cooked. Its unique ability to absorb liquid and flavor while remaining al dente makes it ideal for risottos and creamy dishes like this mushroom rice. When selecting arborio rice, look for a good quality brand, as this will impact the dish's overall creaminess and flavor.

When incorporating the arborio rice, remember to toast it for a couple of minutes in the pot. This step not only enhances its nutty flavor but also prepares it to absorb the vegetable broth better. If you're short on time, you can use a quick-cooking rice, but you'll sacrifice some of the creaminess and depth of flavor.

A common mistake with arborio rice is to rush the cooking process. Cooking it too quickly can lead to uneven texture. After adding the broth, keep the heat low and allow it to simmer gently while covered. This will ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the tasty liquid.

Perfecting the Creamy Finish

To achieve that indulgent creaminess in your mushroom rice, it's crucial to add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese after cooking the rice. Adding them directly to hot rice helps in melting the cheese and blending it into a silky texture. Be sure to stir quickly to avoid any clumps, and keep the heat on low to help the cream integrate smoothly.

If you're looking for a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute like coconut cream. Just be aware that this will alter the flavor profile slightly, especially the coconut cream, which adds a tropical note. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.

Remember, achieving the perfect balance of flavor in this dish is essential. The saltiness of the Parmesan cheese can vary, so taste your dish before adding additional salt and pepper. A dash of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors if you find it's tasting a bit flat.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice is excellent for meal prep. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of broth or water to your pot over low heat, stirring until warmed through—this will help revive the creamy texture without drying it out.

For serving, this dish pairs beautifully with simple protein options like grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a fresh side salad. If you're looking for vegetarian options, consider topping the rice with sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrients.

You can also experiment with various types of mushrooms to change the flavor profile. Try a mix of shiitake, oyster, or even wild mushrooms if available. Each brings its unique character to the dish, making it versatile for different tastes while retaining that comforting creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your flavorful One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browning and tender, around 5 minutes.

Add the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice, coating it well with the vegetable mixture for about 2 minutes. This step helps to toast the rice and develop its flavor.

Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish the Dish

Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while the rice simmers, and remove it before serving. A splash of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't hesitate to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand. If you don't have arborio rice, a medium-grain rice like Carnaroli or even white rice can work in a pinch, though the texture might not be quite as creamy. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, as white rice typically cooks faster than arborio.

For a vegan option, swap the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also throw in nutritional yeast at the end for a hint of umami without adding calories.

If you prefer, replace the mushrooms with vegetables like peas or asparagus. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they retain their color and crunch. This adaptation also works well to incorporate seasonal vegetables.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the rice is too dry after cooking, it's likely that the heat was too high during simmering. Keep the lid on tightly to retain moisture, and if necessary, add a bit more broth incrementally until the desired texture is achieved. Stir gently to avoid breaking the rice grains.

On the other hand, if your rice becomes mushy, you may have overcooked it or used too much liquid. To fix this, serve it quickly while it still retains some structure, or mix in some fresh cooked rice to balance out the consistency. Adding some sautéed greens can also help create a nice contrast in textures.

Remember, experimentation is key! If you tweak the recipe and it doesn't turn out perfect the first time, take notes for the next round. Cooking is an art, and each try helps refine your technique for that ultimate creamy mushroom rice.

Serving Variations

For a twist on this classic recipe, consider incorporating other flavor elements such as truffle oil drizzled over the top right before serving. It elevates the dish's umami flavor and adds a luxurious touch that’s perfect for special occasions.

Another variation is to mix in different cheeses for more depth. Cheddar or Gruyère can add a depth of flavor and creaminess. Just remember to grate them finely so that they melt quickly into the rice.

If you're looking to create a heartier dish, tossing in some cooked protein like shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled sausage will transform this side into an enticing main course that is sure to satisfy hunger.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of arborio rice?

Brown rice will work, but cooking times may vary. It typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick.