Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love the cozy feeling that Sunday brings, especially when it involves a delicious, creamy mushroom rice bake. This dish is rich and satisfying, made with a blend of tender mushrooms, savory herbs, and creamy rice that perfectly soaks up the flavors. It's a perfect way to use leftovers and elevate a simple meal into something extraordinary. Whenever I make this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a spoonful before it's ready!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:43:19.209Z

When I first tried making this creamy mushroom rice bake, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy and flavorful it turned out. The key is to let the mushrooms caramelize nicely before adding them to the rice, which brings out their natural sweetness and depth. I also love using a mix of wild and white rice for texture, but you can easily stick with just one type if you prefer.

This dish not only serves as a hearty main course but also makes a fantastic side for roasted meats. I often make a larger batch, as the leftovers are just as delicious the next day, heated up with a dash of broth or cream for extra flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting with a rich mushroom flavor
Perfect for using up leftover rice or mushrooms
Simple ingredients that come together quickly and easily
Great as a main dish or a side to a protein

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this creamy mushroom rice bake due to its high starch content, which creates that sought-after creamy texture. When you toast it in the skillet, it begins to absorb the flavors from the sautéed vegetables while also maintaining a slight al dente bite. This balance between creaminess and texture is vital, so make sure to use Arborio or another short-grain rice for the best result; long-grain varieties won’t achieve the same comforting creaminess.

To get the best results, be mindful not to over-stir the rice once you add the broth. Stirring too much can release excess starch, turning your dish into a paste rather than a creamy delight. Just a couple of gentle stirs to incorporate everything is all you need before covering the skillet for simmering.

Mushroom Variations

The type of mushrooms you choose can significantly change the flavor profile of this bake. While cremini and button mushrooms are classic options, don’t hesitate to experiment with shiitake or portobello for a more robust flavor. If you're using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in boiling water for 20 minutes before adding them to the dish for a deep, umami-rich taste that enhances the creamy texture.

For an extra earthy flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and onions. This addition will create a richer sauce that pairs wonderfully with the mushrooms. Just remember to let it reduce a bit before adding the rice to keep the bake from becoming too watery.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Preparing this dish in advance can save you a lot of time on busy days. You can assemble the creamy rice mixture in a baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time, checking for doneness to ensure everything heats through evenly.

Leftovers work beautifully too! Store any extra bake in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) can help maintain the dish’s texture, but if you’re in a hurry, using the microwave works as well. Just make sure to add a splash of cream or broth before reheating to keep it from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process more enjoyable!

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Once you have everything ready, you can start assembling your bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy mushroom rice bake!

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in the mushrooms and sauté until they are browned and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).

Combine Rice and Broth

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, and stir for about 2 minutes to toast the rice slightly. Pour in the vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

Add Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is done, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing everything to meld together.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the rice mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Your creamy mushroom rice bake is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed spinach or cooked chicken. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving for a nice garnish.

Serving Suggestions

This mushroom rice bake can shine as a standalone dish or be served as a delightful side. Pair it with a simple salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake. Grilled chicken or seared fish also complements this dish splendidly, providing a protein contrast that rounds out your meal.

For a vegetarian option, consider topping the rice bake with roasted cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice bake turns out too dry after baking, it may be due to insufficient liquid during the cooking process. Consider adding a bit more broth or cream next time, particularly if you're using more rice than the recipe states. Alternatively, if it’s too watery, allow it to bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to help evaporate excess moisture.

Another potential issue is flavor imbalance. If your bake tastes bland, try adjusting the seasoning before baking. A little extra salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or more Parmesan can elevate the overall taste dramatically. Taste as you go to ensure you achieve that rich, savory flavor you’re aiming for.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. For a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Just keep in mind to extend the baking time slightly, checking for doneness as the dish heats through.

For smaller portions, halve the ingredients, but be aware that the cooking times might still remain somewhat the same, especially when the dish is baked. Use smaller baking dishes for a quicker cook time and to prevent the mixture from getting too dry while baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, and the texture will differ. Arborio helps achieve the creamy consistency.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute to lower the fat content.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.