Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup white rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic World Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice! The combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy goodness creates a comforting dish that's perfect for any meal. This recipe has become one of my go-to favorites, especially when I want something rich and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, I find myself whipping this up for weeknight dinners or as a cozy side dish for gatherings. Each bite is a delightful experience that never disappoints.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:02:36.157Z

This Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice recipe came together during a weeknight meal when I found myself with some leftover mushrooms and spinach. I decided to combine them with rice and a creamy sauce, and the result was nothing short of magical. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms harmonize beautifully with the vibrant spinach, and the creaminess ties everything together.

One important tip I learned is to sauté the mushrooms until they're golden brown before adding the spinach. This enhances their flavor and adds depth to the dish. Trust me, the extra step is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavors that comfort the soul
Creamy texture that complements the rice perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, great for busy weeknights

Cooking the Rice Perfectly

Cooking the rice with vegetable broth instead of water infuses it with deeper flavor, enhancing the overall dish. Be sure to use a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to maintain steam for even cooking. After adding the broth, let it reach a rolling boil before reducing the heat. This method prevents the rice from sticking together and ensures it becomes fluffy, absorbing all the liquid beautifully.

When toasting the rice, aim for a light sheen and aromatic release, approximately 1-2 minutes. If uncertain, give the rice a visual check; it should look slightly translucent. Remember to avoid stirring too much once you add the broth, as this can lead to mushiness. Instead, give it a gentle stir right after adding the broth to settle the rice evenly.

Sautéing for Flavor

Sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden is crucial, as this step caramelizes their sugars, unlocking rich umami flavors that add depth to the final result. Use a wide skillet to maximize surface area, allowing moisture to escape faster and yield that beautiful golden color. If the pan starts to steam instead of sauté, raise the heat to medium-high to encourage proper browning.

When the spinach is added, watch for the vibrant green color indicating it's perfectly wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. Overcooking will lead to a loss of flavor and nutrients. For a twist, consider incorporating other greens like kale or Swiss chard, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure they're tender yet still vibrant.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Mixture

1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all these ingredients well in your cooking process!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the rice. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes before adding the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18 minutes or until rice is tender.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate pan, sauté the sliced mushrooms over medium-high heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything

Once the rice is cooked, add the sautéed mushrooms and spinach to the rice. Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness of this Mushroom Spinach Rice!

Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms. Additionally, try using brown rice for a healthier option, although cooking times may vary.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to revive the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. You can microwave it covered or reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Freezing is an option too! Simply cool the rice completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop, making sure to add moisture back into the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice can be served as a luxurious side or a hearty main dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal, or throw in some chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian option. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors, cutting through the richness beautifully.

Consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top before serving adds a delightful finish that elevates the dish. Experiment with different mushrooms, too; shiitake or cremini can provide varying flavors and textures that are sure to please.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Certainly! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it and reheat before serving. Just add a splash of broth to loosen the rice.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.