Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button and shiitake); 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Meals

I absolutely adore this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice dish! It beautifully combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the vibrant pops of fresh spinach, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Each bite transports me to my favorite Italian trattoria, where comfort food reigns supreme. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests. Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible!

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:41:35.187Z

Growing up, I always found solace in rice dishes, and this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice became one of my favorites. I distinctly remember the first time I made it—I used a mix of fresh button and shiitake mushrooms, which imparted a depth of flavor that was both rich and comforting. The secret to achieving that perfect creaminess? A blend of cream cheese and parmesan!

What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is; sometimes I toss in some leftover chicken or swap out spinach for kale. Each variation brings its own charm while maintaining that satisfying creaminess. It's a recipe I often turn to when I want something delightful yet simple.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Hearty mushrooms add depth with every bite
Fresh spinach balances the dish, making it vibrant

      

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice in this Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice is essential for achieving that velvety texture. Arborio is a short-grain rice known for its high starch content, which releases creaminess as it cooks. This unique characteristic allows the rice to absorb the flavors from the broth while staying al dente, giving each spoonful a satisfying bite.

When toasting the Arborio rice, aim for that slightly translucent look on the edges before adding the broth. This brief toasting stage enhances the flavor and prepares the rice to absorb the liquid effectively. If you ever find yourself out of Arborio, you can substitute it with Carnaroli or even sushi rice, though the texture might slightly differ.

Incorporating Spinach for Freshness

Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also packs the dish with essential nutrients. When adding chopped spinach towards the end of cooking, keep an eye on it; it will wilt quickly, usually within a minute or two. This method preserves its bright green color and nutritional value, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.

If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a good alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid adding excess moisture. The key is to incorporate it into the dish right at the end of cooking, ensuring it melds with the flavors without becoming mushy.

Make-Ahead and Leftover Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the rice and mushrooms ahead of time, storing them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them gently, add fresh spinach and cream cheese, and stir until heated through and combined. This quick reheating keeps the dish refreshing and maintains the creamy texture.

If you have leftover Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice, consider transforming it into a delightful risotto-style bake. Place the rice mixture in a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly. This way, you can enjoy a new version of the dish while savoring the original flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button and shiitake)
2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to whip up a delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are soft and golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. This adds extra flavor to the dish.

Incorporate Broth Gradually

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.

Mix in Spinach and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the chopped spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan until fully incorporated.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy this creamy and comforting dish any time of the year!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the rice is too dry while cooking, don’t hesitate to add more broth, a little at a time. The goal is for the rice to absorb all the liquid slowly, creating that creamy consistency. A gentle stir will also help to release the starches, enhancing the creaminess without overcooking the rice.

On the flip side, if you accidentally added too much broth, you can salvage the dish by cooking it a bit longer on low heat to evaporate the excess liquid. Just be careful not to let it stick to the bottom of the skillet, using a wooden spoon to gently scrape any bits that stick.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom Spinach Rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp if you're looking to add protein to the meal. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing balance to the creaminess of the rice.

For a touch of extra flavor, consider garnishing the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil. These additions will brighten the dish and enhance the subtle flavors of the mushrooms and spinach.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just stick with the vegetable broth and avoid adding any meat.

→ What type of rice can I use instead of Arborio?

While Arborio rice is ideal for creaminess, you can also use medium-grain rice for a similar texture.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and mushroom mix in advance, then add the spinach and cream cheese just before serving.

→ 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 or in the microwave.