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; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice for dinner because it combines rich flavors with a satisfying creaminess that always hits the spot. The earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach come together to create a dish that pairs beautifully with any protein and is also comforting enough to stand alone. This recipe is a go-to for weeknight meals and special gatherings alike, and I always enjoy how quickly it comes together, allowing me to spend more time with family and friends.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:37:34.879Z

When I first had creamy mushroom spinach rice at a friend's gathering, I was amazed by the depth of flavor packed into such a simple dish. The secret is in the fresh ingredients and the perfect balance of seasonings that elevate every bite. I decided to recreate it at home, making a few adjustments to personalize it to my taste and adding a touch of garlic for an aromatic lift.

Throughout my experimentation, I found that using a mix of fresh and sautéed spinach not only added nutrients but also enhanced the color and texture. Serving it warm, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan, transforms it into a delightful side or a vegetarian main dish that impresses everyone at the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts your soul
Earthy mushrooms blended with vibrant spinach
Quick to make, perfect for any weeknight

      

The Magic of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is an essential ingredient in Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice, as its high starch content creates that signature creamy texture you crave. When cooked, Arborio rice releases its starches, resulting in a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the rice. Ensure you stir frequently while adding the broth to help the rice release more starch, achieving that delightful creaminess as it cooks. If you don't have Arborio on hand, you can substitute with Carnaroli or even short-grain white rice, though the texture may vary slightly.

Cooking Arborio rice requires a bit of patience. You'll notice that the rice starts to absorb the broth, swelling and becoming plump. Aim for the rice to be cooked al dente, which usually takes about 20 minutes. If you prefer a softer texture, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes, just be careful not to overdo it or you might end up with a mushy consistency.

Perfectly Sautéed Vegetables

The foundation of flavor in this dish lies in the sautéed vegetables. Sautéing the onions and garlic together with the olive oil not only infuses the oil with rich aromatics but also builds the base for your creamy sauce. Cook the onions until they are translucent, which typically takes around 3 minutes. This ensures they become sweet and tender without burning, setting the perfect stage for the mushrooms that follow.

When it comes to mushrooms, opt for varieties like cremini or button mushrooms; they add an earthy depth that elevates the dish. Sautéing them until soft brings out their natural umami flavor. You’ll know they’re ready when they have released their moisture and are starting to turn golden around the edges, which should take about 5 minutes. If your pan appears dry during cooking, splash in a bit of extra olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this creamy delight:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting to make the cooking process smooth.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your creamy mushroom spinach rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they are soft.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for about 2 minutes, mixing well. Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process, stirring frequently, until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, about 20 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream

Once the rice is cooked, lower the heat and fold in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until the spinach is wilted and the rice is creamy.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional black pepper if desired.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade creamy mushroom spinach rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine during the cooking process. You can also customize this dish by adding other vegetables or proteins such as chicken or shrimp.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep. You can prepare the dish up to the step where you add the cream and spinach, cooling it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the rice over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed.

Freezing this dish is also an option, though be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. To reheat after freezing, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it slowly on the stove, again incorporating additional broth or water to help restore its creamy quality.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins. Whether you serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, the flavors will meld beautifully. I often suggest sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese on top as it brings out the richness and adds a delightful salty bite.

You can also incorporate a fresh, zesty element to balance the dish. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top can elevate the overall dining experience. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for a bit of crunch and an additional nutritional boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to keep it creamy.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just ensure it's in a sealable container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.