Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 3 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup whole milk; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing side dish that feels like comfort in every bite, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is it. Made with buttery rice, aromatic garlic, and a rich Parmesan finish, it’s creamy, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes — all in one pan! This dish is the perfect companion to almost any main course, from juicy chicken and tender steak to golden pork chops. It’s a side that never goes unnoticed at the dinner table.

The combination of flavors in this garlic parmesan rice will elevate your meals. With its rich, garlicky undertones and the creaminess from the Parmesan, it’s irresistible. Plus, the fact that it can be whipped up so quickly means you can serve a homemade side on even the busiest nights. This Garlic Parmesan Rice doesn’t just satisfy the taste buds; it simplifies mealtime with minimal effort involved, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or laid-back dinners with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

🧄 Flavor-packed: Creamy, garlicky, and cheesy with a touch of buttery richness.
🥣 Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples like rice, garlic, butter, broth, milk, and Parmesan.
⏱️ Quick & easy: Ready in about 25 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
🍳 One-pan recipe: Everything cooks together on the stovetop for ultimate convenience.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the deliciousness of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice, prepping your kitchen and workspace is crucial for a seamless cooking experience. Start by gathering your ingredients: long-grain white rice, unsalted butter, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, whole milk, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget to have fresh parsley on hand for a splash of color!

You’ll need a medium saucepan for this recipe. A fine mesh strainer is also handy for rinsing the rice, which is essential to prevent clumping in the final dish. Measuring cups and a cutting board for the garlic will ensure that your ingredients are all at the ready. Having everything prepped before starting will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
3 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing your rice in a fine mesh strainer under cool running water. Give it a good swish until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy and ensuring that each grain is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook just long enough for the garlic to release its aromatic fragrance, about 30 seconds to a minute—be careful not to brown it, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste to your dish.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquids

Now it’s time to introduce the rinsed rice to the pan! Stir the rice into the garlic-butter mixture, allowing it to soak up all that delicious flavor. Then, pour in your chicken broth and whole milk. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This creates a flavorful base for your creamy rice.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it cook for 18 to 20 minutes undisturbed. It might be tempting to check on it, but keeping the lid on is essential. That trapped steam is what will cook the rice evenly and thoroughly. You’ll want to wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

Once your rice has reached perfection, remove the saucepan from heat. Now comes the best part: stir in your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the optional chopped parsley. This will give the rice that coveted creamy, cheesy finish. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to incorporate all the ingredients, and it’s ready to serve warm.

Variations

Protein: Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon to the rice for a heartier dish. Just fold them in at the same time you add the Parmesan.
Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. These can be added during the last few minutes of cooking.
Spices: Experiment with different spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice heat, or you could try a dash of lemon zest for brightness!

Cooking Notes

Make sure to rinse your rice thoroughly to remove extra starch.
Keeping the lid on during cooking is essential for proper steaming.
Simmer on low heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
For the creamiest texture, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
If your rice seems too dry, a splash of water or milk can be added to loosen the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this garlic Parmesan rice with Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops for a deliciously comforting meal.
It complements beautifully with Pan-Seared Filet Mignon for a touch of elegance.
Grilled chicken or shrimp add protein and are fantastic with this rich side.
For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Roasted Vegetables.

Tips

For the best flavor, use unsalted butter and adjust seasoning as needed.
Rinsing the rice before cooking is key to achieving fluffy grains.
Keep the cooking time consistent; an extra few minutes can affect consistency.
If you’re short on time, using pre-minced garlic can help, but fresh is always preferable for the best taste.
Store any leftovers properly to maintain quality, reheating gently to restore the creamy texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 (approx.)
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 500mg (depending on broth used)

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will take longer to cook, around 40 to 45 minutes, and may require a bit more liquid to cook through.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute olive oil for butter and use unsweetened, plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. While the flavor profile will differ, it will still be delicious.

What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy garlic Parmesan rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a base for a stir-fry.

Can I prepare it in advance?

You can prepare most elements ahead and combine everything before serving; this dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and reheated.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a must-try for its mouthwatering flavor and simplicity. Perfect for any occasion, it combines ease and taste in a delightful way. With its creamy texture and aromatic garlic, this dish can elevate any meal, making it a favorite for sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and make this recipe your own! We encourage you to give it a try and let us know how it turns out. Happy cooking!