Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Spinach 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 fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I absolutely love making creamy mushroom spinach rice; it feels indulgent yet comforting at the same time. The combination of earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach cooked with creamy rice creates a delightful dish that is sure to please everyone. I often serve this as a main course or a side dish, and I've found that the flavors meld beautifully when allowed to rest for a few minutes before serving. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-19T22:57:34.539Z

I've always been drawn to dishes that are both rich and wholesome, and creamy mushroom spinach rice perfectly embodies that balance. After experimenting with various types of rice, I settled on Arborio for its ability to absorb flavors while providing a wonderful creaminess. The trick is to stir frequently and add the broth gradually, which creates the desired texture and richness.

While preparing this dish, I love adding a generous squeeze of lemon juice right before serving; it enhances the flavors and brightens the whole dish. The colorful spinach not only adds a nutritional punch but also makes every serving look appetizing. This is a recipe I return to time and again, and I’m excited for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and decadent with every bite
Nutritious spinach and earthy mushrooms
Versatile as a main or side dish

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is crucial for achieving the creamy texture of this dish. Its high starch content emulsifies during cooking, creating a luscious sauce that clings to each grain. Unlike regular rice, Arborio rice will absorb flavor and liquid effectively, which is essential for the depth of taste in creamy mushroom spinach rice. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute with Carnaroli or even short-grain sushi rice, though they may alter the final creaminess slightly.

When toasting the Arborio rice in the pan, ensure it turns slightly translucent but not brown, as this can lead to uneven cooking later. The goal is to enhance its nutty flavor without compromising its starchy coating, which is key to the dish's creaminess.

Enhancing Flavor with Vegetables

The sautéing process for onions and garlic is essential in building the flavor foundation for this dish. Look for the onions to become translucent and fragrant before adding the mushrooms. This is the moment when the natural oils and sweetness of the onions meld beautifully with the savory garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the rice.

For variations, feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini along with the spinach. If you're looking to add a protein element, consider incorporating cooked chicken or chickpeas. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if adding raw ingredients to ensure they are cooked through and flavors meld perfectly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy mushroom spinach rice can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Prepare the dish, allow it to cool completely, and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth to regain its creamy texture.

If you'd like to freeze this dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers after cooling. It will maintain its quality for about one month. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the rice overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, stirring in additional cream if needed to revive its creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious creamy mushroom spinach rice:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ensure everything is prepped before you begin cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy mushroom spinach rice:

Sauté the Veggies

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir well, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. This will enhance the nutty flavor.

Add Broth Gradually

Begin adding the vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding more broth. This process should take about 20 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach and Cream

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, fold in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your dish warm!

Enjoy your creamy mushroom spinach rice as a comforting meal any day of the week!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before incorporating the broth. This gives the dish depth and a beautiful acidity.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy mushroom spinach rice makes for an excellent standalone dish, but pairing it with protein can elevate the meal. I often recommend serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete dinner. Alternatively, enjoy it as a hearty side accompanying roasted meats or a fresh salad.

For special occasions, consider topping the dish with crispy fried onions or fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add contrasting textures that make every bite more exciting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dish turns out too thick or dry, it's likely due to not adding enough broth during the cooking process. Don't hesitate to incorporate extra broth or even water gradually, stirring continuously to achieve that desired creamy consistency without losing flavor. Remember, patience is key; the gradual addition of liquid allows better absorption by the rice.

On the flip side, if the rice becomes overly mushy, it may have been cooked too long or too much liquid was added at once. Always monitor the liquid level during cooking—waiting until it's almost absorbed before adding more helps maintain the right texture. Adjusting heat levels can also help control cooking speed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, while Arborio rice is ideal for creaminess, you can experiment with other types like jasmine or basmati, though the texture may differ.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and ensure the Parmesan cheese (if using) is dairy-free or omit it entirely.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Just reheat gently and add a splash of broth to bring it back to creaminess.

→ What can I serve with creamy mushroom spinach rice?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad.