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 mushrooms, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice when I want a comforting yet elegant meal. The combination of earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and creamy rice creates a dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. I often find myself experimenting with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to add extra depth to the flavor. Plus, it's a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion when I want to impress guests.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:42:35.257Z

When I first tried making Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice, I was thrilled with the outcome. The secret to a great flavor lies in sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden brown, which enhances their umami taste. I learned that adding a splash of white wine after cooking the mushrooms not only deglazes the pan but also brings a lovely acidity that balances the creaminess.

This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it's so versatile. Sometimes I add a handful of goat cheese or Parmesan at the end for extra richness. Using fresh spinach and herbs gives it a vibrant finish that makes it feel special, even on a regular night!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy blend of flavors
Nutritious spinach adds freshness
Perfectly filling for any meal

The Importance of Arborio Rice

When making creamy risottos like this Mushroom Spinach Rice, Arborio rice is a must. Its high starch content lends a creamy texture to the dish as it cooks, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Unlike regular rice, which may become mushy, Arborio holds its shape, providing that perfect al dente bite. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute Carnaroli rice for a similar texture, but avoid long-grain rice as it won’t yield the same creaminess.

To ensure your Arborio rice cooks evenly, rinse it briefly under cold water before adding it to the skillet. This washes away excess starch, which can sometimes lead to overly sticky results. However, don’t rinse too thoroughly, as you still want some of that starch for a silky finish. Remember, it’s also essential to toast your rice slightly before adding the liquid; this enhances the nutty flavor and prepares it to absorb the broth effectively.

Enhancing Flavor with Mushrooms

Mushrooms are the stars of this dish, contributing not only a rich, earthy flavor but also a meaty texture that elevates the whole meal. While I often use cremini or shiitake mushrooms, feel free to experiment with varieties like portobello or oyster for a different taste profile. Just make sure to slice them evenly for uniform cooking; uneven pieces may lead to some being overly cooked while others remain firmer.

For optimum flavor development, consider seasoning your mushrooms with a pinch of salt while they cook. This helps them release their natural moisture, concentrating their flavors as they brown. Aim for a nice golden color before proceeding to the next step; this visual cue indicates that they have caramelized properly, enhancing the dish’s overall depth.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is best served immediately while the rice is creamy and warm. To elevate your presentation, consider offering it within a hollowed-out roasted bell pepper or accompanied by a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. I sometimes sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of lemon zest just before serving, adding a delightful brightness that complements the rich creaminess.

If you want to prep this dish in advance, you can cook the rice and mushroom mixture, then store it without the spinach and cream. When ready to serve, just reheat it gently, adding the fresh spinach and cream at the end to preserve the vibrant color and texture of the greens. This also makes a wonderful dish to double or triple for meal prepping, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin to streamline the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy dish:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to slightly toast and absorb the flavors.

Add the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and cooked through.

Finish with Spinach and Cream

Stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cream is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy this delicious comfort food!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your rich and creamy mushroom spinach rice!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian option, ensure your broth is vegetable-based. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp if you like a protein addition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal planning. Cook the rice mixture up to the point of adding cream and spinach, then allow it to cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth to thin it out while warming to restore its creamy consistency.

If you wish to freeze the dish, do so before adding the cream. Once prepared, let it cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then heat gently while incorporating the cream and spinach for a delightful, fresh finish.

Dietary Adjustments

For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. This will keep the dish creamy while reducing calories. If you're vegan, consider using almond or oat milk combined with a thickening agent like cornstarch to replicate the richness without dairy.

Should you need a gluten-free option, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the vegetable broth is also gluten-free. You can also add additional veggies like peas, or even roasted butternut squash for more seasonal flavor, ensuring your dish remains colorful and nutritious.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice seems too dry while cooking, feel free to add a bit more broth incrementally. The goal is to maintain a creamy consistency, so don’t hesitate to adjust the liquids. On the flip side, if it becomes too soupy, cooking it uncovered for a few minutes can help evaporate excess liquid and thicken the dish.

A common pitfall is under-seasoning, as the cream can dull flavors. Taste frequently while cooking and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Adding a touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice at the end can also lift all the flavors, ensuring a perfectly balanced dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

While you can use brown rice, be aware that it will take longer to cook and the texture will differ since Arborio rice is specifically chosen for its creaminess.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, swap the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream and ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in vegetables like asparagus, peas, or bell peppers to customize this recipe to your taste!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.