Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice

Name: Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice for its rich flavors and comforting texture. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I'm craving something hearty yet simple. The combination of sautéed garlic and earthy mushrooms enveloped in soft rice is a match made in culinary heaven. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, while still being a dish worthy of serving at dinner parties. Trust me, once you try this, you'll find it hard to share!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:13:19.474Z

When I first tried Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice at a friend's house, I was immediately hooked by the delightful aroma and the irresistible taste. The secret, I discovered, lies in using fresh ingredients and allowing the garlic to become golden before adding the mushrooms. This technique enhances the flavors and creates an inviting scent that fills the kitchen.

To achieve the perfect consistency, I recommend cooking the rice until just tender, so it absorbs all the savory butter and mushroom flavors. Adding a splash of broth elevates the richness and makes each bite incredibly satisfying. It's an absolute winner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The irresistible blend of garlic and buttery goodness
Hearty and fulfilling, perfect as a side or main dish
Quick to prepare, making it great for weeknight meals

      

The Role of Garlic and Butter

Garlic plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of this dish, providing a robust and aromatic base that enhances the earthiness of the mushrooms. By sautéing the minced garlic in butter, you're releasing its essential oils, which brings a depth of flavor to the entire dish. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter; just sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute, to capture its full potential.

Butter not only adds richness but also helps to create a silky texture that balances the firmness of the rice and the tender mushrooms. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil for a lighter option, but I recommend sticking to butter for that classic flavor and lush mouthfeel.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Mushrooms are the star ingredient beyond the garlic in this dish. While cremini or button mushrooms are commonly used, feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for different flavor profiles. Shiitake mushrooms offer a more umami-rich taste, while portobello can contribute a hearty texture due to their meaty nature. Remember to slice them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate, achieving that delightful golden color.

If you have dried mushrooms, they can be rehydrated and used as well. Just soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes until soft, and then slice. Add them to the skillet after you’ve sautéed the garlic to ensure they release their flavors properly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can cook the rice a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. On the day you plan to serve it, simply reheat the rice in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture, while you cook the mushrooms.

If you have leftovers, you can store the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a teaspoon of butter or olive oil in a skillet over low heat and stir constantly until warmed through to prevent sticking. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month—just make sure to cool it thoroughly before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to prepare everything before you start cooking to streamline the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they become tender and golden.

Combine and Season

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir to combine, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice!

This dish is best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice can be served as a satisfying side dish or a main course. If you want to elevate it further, try pairing it with grilled chicken or pan-seared fish, which can complement the dish's rich flavors beautifully. Moreover, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of crème fraîche can add a creamy contrast that enhances each bite.

For a vegetarian option, you can top it with sautéed spinach or steamed asparagus, adding both color and nutritional value. Another idea is to serve it alongside a fresh green salad, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich buttery rice.

Flavor Variations

To customize your Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice, consider adding some heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the garlic. Alternatively, you could mix in some cooked proteins, such as diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu, turning it into a full meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Herbs also play a key role in enhancing flavor. While parsley is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with fresh thyme, rosemary, or even basil for a more vibrant twist. Just remember—use herbs sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish; a little goes a long way!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

Button mushrooms, cremini, or shiitake all add great flavor. Feel free to mix them!

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.