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 sliced mushrooms; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice when I want a comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup. The rich flavors of the mushrooms, combined with creamy rice, create a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. Plus, being able to prepare everything in one pot makes it incredibly convenient. Whether I'm cooking for family or just treating myself, this dish always hits the spot. It's the perfect balance of creaminess and mushroom goodness, making it a favorite in my kitchen!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:29:37.089Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into such a luscious dish. The key is in the sautéing of the mushrooms until they’re perfectly golden, which really enhances their flavor. I also discovered that using vegetable broth instead of water makes all the difference in achieving that rich, creamy texture.

Since then, I’ve played with different types of mushrooms and even added a splash of white wine for extra depth. Each time I make this dish, it feels like a new culinary adventure in my own kitchen, and it never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Comforting and creamy with every bite
Flexible to adapt with different mushrooms
One pot means easy cleanup for busy nights

Perfecting the Mushroom Flavor

Choosing the right mushrooms can significantly impact the flavor profile of your One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice. While the recipe calls for sliced mushrooms, you can easily elevate the dish with a mix of varieties. For a deeper umami flavor, consider using shiitake or cremini mushrooms alongside the typical white button mushrooms. Each adds unique notes; shiitake brings earthiness, while cremini adds a hint of sweetness.

To enhance the mushroom flavor even further, allow them to cook until they caramelize and develop a rich golden color. This not only intensifies their taste but also adds a beautiful depth to your dish. Aim for sautéing them for about 7 minutes until the edges start to turn brown rather than softening them instantly.

Tips for Creamy Perfection

Using Arborio rice is essential for achieving that creamy texture due to its high starch content. This rice brand is often used in risotto and absorbs liquid well without becoming mushy. If you don’t have Arborio rice on hand, you can substitute it with other short-grain varieties, but the creaminess may not be as pronounced. Avoid long-grain rice, as it won’t yield the desired creaminess.

For the best results, let the rice rest for a few minutes after adding the heavy cream. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the cream to thicken slightly, resulting in a silkier mouthfeel. If you prefer a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream—it won't be as rich but still contributes to the creaminess.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're golden brown, around 5-7 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it well with the mushroom mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Add Cream and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. Additionally, using a mix of wild mushrooms can elevate the dish even further!

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Creamy Mushroom Rice pairs wonderfully with various proteins. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a satisfying meal. Alternatively, it makes a fantastic base for roasted vegetables or a gourmet salad, enhancing the meal’s nutrition and color.

For an easy weeknight dinner, you might serve this dish in individual bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of truffle oil. These additions elevate the flavors and provide a restaurant-quality finish to your beloved comfort dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the creamy mushroom rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tends to thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating it. A quick microwave or stovetop heat will do wonders; just stir in the liquid and warm gently until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to a month. When freezing, make sure to let the rice cool completely. Divide it into portions before placing it in freezer-safe bags to streamline future meals. Just remember that the texture might change slightly upon thawing due to the cream's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream and ensure your vegetable broth is vegan.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add peas, spinach, or even bell peppers for more color and nutrition.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the mushroom and onion mixture in advance. Just add the rice and broth when you're ready to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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