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 Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice on busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet quick. The blend of earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach creates a rich, delightful flavor that speaks to my soul. The creaminess ties everything together beautifully, and it pairs perfectly with a variety of grilled meats or can stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian dish. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic choice for dinner any night of the week.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-19T21:41:34.314Z

I stumbled upon this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice recipe during a busy week and decided to give it a shot. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach creates a comforting meal that’s packed with nutrients. What I love about this dish is how quickly it comes together while still feeling indulgent.

By using a blend of vegetable broth and cream, I found the perfect balance of richness without making it overwhelmingly heavy. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese at the end elevates the flavor beautifully, making each bite a real treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that's satisfying
Earthy mushrooms complement the vibrant spinach
Quick and easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner

      

Cooking with Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the key ingredient for this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice due to its high starch content, which contributes to the dish’s signature creaminess. Unlike other rice varieties, Arborio grains absorb liquid while maintaining a chewy texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. When sautéing the rice, remember to toast it just until it begins to look slightly translucent; this promotes nutty flavors and paves the way for a deliciously rich base for your creamy sauce.

Using vegetable broth instead of plain water not only adds depth but also infuses the rice with a savory flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth to maintain control over the overall saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding a splash of white wine after toasting the rice. Allow the alcohol to cook off before introducing the broth, enriching the flavor profile with a subtle complexity that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms and spinach.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The combination of sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach in this dish not only creates visual appeal but also balances earthy and vibrant flavors. When cooking the mushrooms, ensure they’re spread out in the skillet, allowing them to brown evenly, which intensifies their flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than browning. Once the mushrooms are golden, they’ll contribute a savory, umami-rich base that enhances the overall profile of the dish.

Adding in the spinach at the end is a crucial step; it should remain slightly wilted, ensuring it retains its bright green color and nutritional benefits. If you prefer a bolder spinach flavor, consider using baby kale or Swiss chard for a twist. Both alternatives will provide a unique taste while still blending well with the creamy texture of the dish. To amplify the dish’s richness, you can experiment with adding other cheese varieties, such as feta for tang or gouda for smokiness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes until they release their moisture and become slightly golden.

Add Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, letting it toast for a minute before adding vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cream It Up

Once the rice is tender, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Mix in the parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This dish also works well with different vegetables – feel free to experiment!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Cook the dish fully and allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the creamy texture, as refrigeration can cause the rice to thicken.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and consume within three months for the best taste and texture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. This method helps to retain the quality of each ingredient, especially the spinach.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken or shrimp, which complement the dish's rich flavors. If you’re serving as a standalone vegetarian option, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. For a cozy meal, consider topping the rice with a fried or poached egg, allowing the yolk to create an additional layer of creaminess when mixed in.

To add an extra element of crunch and flavor, top the dish with toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds before serving. These toppings not only enhance the texture but also introduce a nutritious component to the meal. Feel free to customize the dish with your choice of herbs, such as fresh thyme or basil, harmonizing the flavors and adding a personal touch to this comforting recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and parmesan.

→ What can I serve it with?

This dish pairs nicely with grilled chicken or fish, or it can be a hearty vegetarian main on its own.