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 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice for many reasons. The combination of earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach creates a dish that is not only comforting but rich in flavor. Each bite is filled with creamy goodness, making it an ideal dish for both family dinners and special occasions. I often pair it with grilled chicken or a light salad, but it stands beautifully on its own. Rest assured, this recipe is straightforward and the result is a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:43:19.460Z

When I first created this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice, I wanted to highlight simple ingredients that could deliver a complex flavor profile. The key lies in sautéing the mushrooms until they're beautifully golden, which enhances their umami richness. I also experimented with incorporating fresh spinach at the last moment; this not only adds a pop of color but helps retain the vibrant taste and nutrients of the greens.

A tip I’ve found essential is to use arborio rice, which gives a lovely creaminess to the dish due to its high starch content. This way, you achieve that perfect risotto-like texture without all the stirring. The melding of flavors creates an irresistible side dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that envelops each grain of rice
Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition
Earthy mushrooms give a deep, comforting flavor
Perfect as a main or a delightful side dish

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a key ingredient in this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice dish. Its high starch content is essential for creating that signature creamy texture. When cooked, arborio rice releases starches slowly into the broth, resulting in a luscious consistency that clings to each grain. Make sure to give the rice enough time to cook through—about 15 minutes—while stirring occasionally to encourage even absorption of flavors.

If you don't have arborio rice on hand, you can substitute it with other short-grain varieties such as Carnaroli or even sushi rice. However, avoid long-grain rices like basmati or jasmine, as their texture won't yield the same creaminess we desire in this dish.

Enhancing Flavor with Mushrooms

Mushrooms not only provide depth of flavor but also contribute to the creaminess of the dish. I recommend using a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini and shiitake, for a more complex taste profile. Cook them until they are golden and tender—this caramelization enhances their natural umami flavors. If you're in a pinch, dried mushrooms rehydrated in warm water can serve as a substitute, adding a different yet delightful layer of richness.

Remember to check the moisture content of your mushrooms when cooking. If they release too much liquid, the dish can become watery. To avoid this, cook them on medium-high heat to evaporate excess moisture quickly, ensuring that they brown nicely and concentrate in flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice is superb as a standalone dish, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. A light salad with citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rice. For a vegetarian option, roasted vegetables can make a delightful addition.

Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding other ingredients. A sprinkle of nutmeg can take the creaminess to another level, while a hint of lemon zest can brighten the flavors. You can also include protein-rich whites, such as legumes or tofu, to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.

Ingredients:

For the Rice

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure to measure out all of your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions:

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and tender.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring frequently, and let it simmer until the rice is creamy and tender, about 15 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream

Fold in the fresh spinach and heavy cream, mixing until the spinach wilts and the dish is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

This dish is wonderful for leftovers and can be reheated with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms, allowing it to reduce before adding the rice.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To make it ahead, simply cook the mushrooms, add the rice and broth, and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat the rice gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

If you're looking to freeze it, allow the dish to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to two months in the freezer. When reheating, ensure it's heated to a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find your rice isn't as creamy as hoped, this could be due to insufficient stirring or the rice not being cooked long enough. Remember that consistent stirring helps to release the starches, which creates that desired creaminess. If necessary, add a bit more broth and continue to cook until the desired consistency is reached.

In case your dish turns out too salty, balance the flavors by adding a little extra cream or some additional spinach. Both not only help mellow the saltiness but also enhance the dish’s overall texture and nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of this dish, consider using half-and-half or a combination of yogurt and milk instead of heavy cream. This will slightly alter the creaminess but still maintain a delicious texture. Similarly, if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk can provide a unique flavor profile and similar creaminess.

Should you need a gluten-free option, confirm that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. Additionally, many store-bought vegetable broths are gluten-free, but it's always best to double-check the labels to avoid any gluten-containing ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular rice instead of arborio?

While arborio rice is preferred for its creaminess, you can use regular rice; however, it may not have the same texture.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth if needed.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.