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 or chicken broth; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Home Meals

I absolutely love making One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice for its simplicity and rich flavor. This dish is a staple in my kitchen, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests. The combination of earthy mushrooms with creamy rice creates a comfort food experience that feels special yet is easily achievable. Plus, cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:33:36.028Z

When I first experimented with this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice, I didn't expect it to turn out so deliciously. I combined arborio rice with sautéed mushrooms and a splash of white wine, which adds a depth of flavor. The key is to stir continuously as the rice cooks, allowing it to release starch while absorbing the broth, resulting in that creamy texture we all crave.

Now, I've perfected the recipe by incorporating fresh herbs and a touch of parmesan cheese. Incorporating those at the end elevates each bite, giving it a gourmet feel without any fuss. I often serve this dish with a side salad to complete the meal, making it both hearty and refreshing.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that envelops every grain of rice
Earthy flavor from mushrooms enhances every forkful
Effortlessly made in one pot for quick cleanup

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a key ingredient in this recipe due to its high starch content, which results in a creamy, luscious texture that's difficult to achieve with other rice types. When cooking, the rice releases starch into the broth, creating that dreamy consistency. Be sure to avoid rinsing the rice before use, as this will wash away the starch and impact the final creaminess aspect that makes this dish delightful.

Another great aspect of Arborio is its ability to absorb flavors. As it cooks in the broth, it takes on the earthiness of the mushrooms and the richness of the cream and cheese, creating a harmonious blend of tastes. Watching the rice transform from hard grains to a creamy dish is one of my favorite parts of this cooking process.

Perfecting Your Mushroom Sauté

When sautéing the mushrooms, make sure they are uniformly sliced to ensure even cooking. Aim for a medium heat to promote browning without burning; they should take on a golden color and release their moisture, which is essential for deepening the flavor base of this dish. If sautéing at too high a temperature, the mushrooms may dry out rather than develop that rich, savory taste.

If your mushrooms are sticking to the pot, try adding a splash more olive oil to help them release. To elevate the flavor further, consider adding a pinch of salt while cooking the mushrooms; this helps draw out their moisture more effectively and enhances their natural umami flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a tablespoon of broth or water to help restore its creamy texture, as the rice may absorb moisture during storage.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to three months. When frozen, it’s best to portion it into smaller containers for quicker thawing. To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop—just ensure it’s heated through and creamy by adding a little extra cream or broth if needed.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the dish:

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the dish:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are browned and softened, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice slightly before adding the white wine, if using.

Add the Broth

Gradually add the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring frequently. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and tender.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring until the cheese is melted.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy mushroom rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can use mushroom broth instead of vegetable or chicken broth. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.

Flavor Variations

While mushrooms are a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different varieties or combinations. Adding sautéed spinach, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes can enhance flavor and add a pop of color to your dish. If you have a preference for a different protein, cooked chicken or shrimp can also be stirred in at the end for additional substance.

For those craving a hint of spice, incorporate a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes during the onion sauté phase. This will infuse the entire dish with a subtle warmth that complements the earthy flavors of the mushrooms beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy mushroom rice can serve as a comforting main dish on its own or as a hearty side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted asparagus dressed with lemon and garlic for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme can also elevate the dish further.

Consider topping each serving with additional grated Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to add richness. For a gourmet touch, serve alongside a glass of white wine that mirrors the flavors in the dish, creating a wonderfully cohesive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of arborio rice?

While arborio rice is best for a creamy texture, you can use brown rice. Just note that it will require more cooking time and additional liquid.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Just use vegetable broth and skip the chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be a great addition to make it a full meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to regain creaminess.