Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice

Name: Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice as a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course. The rich, savory flavor of garlic and butter perfectly complements the earthy notes of mushrooms, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and homey. What I find most delightful about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, yet it elevates any meal. Within just a few minutes, you'll have a fragrant, creamy rice dish that everyone will adore, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:34:18.110Z

When I first tried this Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice, I realized how a few simple ingredients could come together to create something extraordinary. The combination of sautéed garlic and butter infuses the rice with incredible flavor, while the mushrooms add a lovely texture that keeps every bite interesting. It became an instant favorite in my home and I love serving it with grilled chicken or alongside a fresh salad.

I discovered that using arborio rice achieves a creamier texture, but you can substitute with basmati or jasmine rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly! After cooking, letting the rice steam for a few minutes off the heat makes it fluffier, so don't skip that step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor combined with creamy butter
Earthy mushrooms add depth and texture
Quick and effortless to prepare for any occasion

      

Cooking with Arborio Rice

Using arborio rice in this recipe contributes to the creamy texture that makes Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice so comforting. Arborio rice is a short-grain variety that's high in starch, which allows it to create a luscious sauce when cooked properly. Take care not to rinse the rice before cooking, as this will wash away the starch needed for that creamy consistency. Instead, allow it to toast in the butter—this step enhances the flavor and helps in achieving the right texture.

During the cooking process, keep a close eye on the rice. You want it to be creamy but not mushy. Stirring occasionally, you can help release more starch, which contributes to the desired creaminess. If you notice it thickening too quickly, it's perfectly fine to add a little extra broth to maintain the right balance of creaminess and prevent sticking.

Perfecting the Garlic and Mushroom Blend

The combination of sautéed garlic and mushrooms creates a truly aromatic base for this dish. I like to use a mixture of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for their depth of flavor. Sautéing them until they are golden brown enhances their umami notes. Keep the heat at medium—if it's too high, the garlic can burn. A few browned bits at the bottom of the pot add flavor, but avoid letting the garlic turn dark or bitter.

If you're looking for variations, consider adding a splash of white wine after the garlic and mushrooms cook down—just let it evaporate before adding the rice. This extra step will give your dish a subtle acidity that beautifully balances the richness of the butter and enhances the mushroom flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect garlic butter mushroom rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice, ensuring it is well-coated in the buttery mixture. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Simmer the Broth

Gradually add the broth, one cup at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Stir occasionally for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Season and Serve

Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your heartwarming dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish keeps remarkably well, although the texture may lose some creaminess. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the rice in a saucepan over low heat to revive that luscious creaminess while stirring. Covering the pan helps steam the rice gently, warming it through without drying it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Spread the cooled rice in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice can be a delightful side dish, but it can also shine as a main course. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken or pan-seared fish. Adding a protein not only complements the flavors but also makes it heartier. You can serve it with a vibrant salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

For a vegetarian twist, try adding spinach or kale to the rice during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add a nutritional boost and a pop of color to your dish. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil right before serving can elevate the flavors further, making it feel more gourmet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, while arborio rice gives a creamy texture, you can also use basmati or jasmine rice. Just adjust the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with this rice?

This garlic butter mushroom rice pairs well with grilled meats, seafood dishes, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.