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: 2 cups of Arborio rice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms; 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice because it's the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The combination of earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach creates a delicious harmony, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Whenever we have guests, this dish never fails to impress, and the best part is that it's quite simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and some careful cooking, I can transform a basic rice dish into something truly special that everyone will rave about.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:07:18.996Z

When I first perfected my Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice, I experimented with various types of mushrooms, and I learned that a mix of cremini and shiitake adds depth to the flavor. The umami richness paired with a creamy sauce creates a delightful combination, making it a dish that feels indulgent yet simple.

One tip I've found invaluable is to sauté the mushrooms until they are nicely browned before adding the spinach. This not only enhances their flavor but also ensures that the spinach retains its vibrant green color, making the dish visually appealing. Trust me, it’s the little details that elevate this comforting meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that lingers on your palate
Earthy flavors from mushrooms perfectly balanced with fresh spinach
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of rice in this recipe is crucial. Arborio rice, typically used for risotto, is starch-rich and offers creaminess as it cooks. This quality helps create a velvety texture that is synonymous with comfort food. If you find Arborio rice unavailable, consider using Carnaroli or even sushi rice as alternatives. They both provide a similar starchy quality, ensuring your dish remains rich and creamy.

Mushrooms are the stars of this dish, contributing both depth and umami flavor. Cremini and shiitake mushrooms bring a variety of earthy notes, while adding numerous health benefits like antioxidants. If you’re looking to mix it up, you could also incorporate button mushrooms or portobellos, although the latter will require longer cooking time due to their density.

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

Sautéing the mushrooms thoroughly is essential for developing their flavors. Aim for a deep golden brown color, which generally takes about 7-10 minutes. The goal is to evaporate the moisture so that the mushrooms don’t steam, which preserves their texture and enhances their earthiness. If at any point they begin to stick, add a splash of broth to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

When adding the vegetable broth, do so gradually to allow for proper absorption. Stir frequently, which not only prevents sticking but also ensures even cooking of the rice. You’ll know the rice is ready when it's tender with a slight al dente bite, usually in about 15-18 minutes. Stirring frequently will also help release the starches, contributing to the creamy texture you’re aiming for.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice!

Ingredients

2 cups of Arborio rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy and flavorful Mushroom Spinach Rice!

Sauté the mushrooms

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are browned and their moisture evaporates, about 5-7 minutes.

Add garlic and rice

Stir in the minced garlic and Arborio rice, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted and coated with oil.

Pour in broth

Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more, about 15 minutes.

Finish the dish

Once the rice is cooked al dente, reduce heat to low and stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after toasting the rice before adding the broth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you plan to make this dish in advance, consider preparing the rice and cream mixture separately. Once cooled, store them in airtight containers, and they can be refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the desired consistency, as the rice will absorb moisture over time.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. I recommend portioning it out into smaller containers for easy reheating. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding extra cream or broth to regain the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon, making it a versatile side dish. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving can also elevate the flavors beautifully.

For variations, you could easily toss in other vegetables like roasted red peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or try Greek yogurt for a tangy touch. This recipe is also a great base for adding proteins; consider incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, or even white beans for a fulfilling complete meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Brown rice can be used, but it will require additional cooking time and more broth to achieve a creamy texture.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth, this recipe is completely vegetarian.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can make it ahead and reheat gently on the stove with a little added broth to restore creaminess.

→ What other greens can I use?

You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard, adjusting the cooking times accordingly for tougher greens.