Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice

Save this recipe on:

Fluffy, buttery, and brimming with creamy garlic richness, Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice is a dreamy side dish that elevates any dinner plate. With just the right balance of cheesy indulgence and savory comfort, this rice is more than just a side—it might just steal the spotlight.

Whether you pair it with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or spoon it into a bowl as a quick comfort fix, this rice is always a hit. It cooks up quickly with pantry staples and transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels luxurious without any fuss.

---

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Long-grain white rice is the top pick for this dish. It cooks up fluffy yet tender, absorbing the garlic butter and Parmesan flavors perfectly. Jasmine or Basmati can also work for added aroma, but avoid instant or short-grain rice as they can turn mushy and lose the desired texture.

---

Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice

• Long-Grain White Rice: Provides a fluffy and absorbent base for soaking up flavor.
• Butter: Adds rich, velvety taste and helps toast the rice for deeper flavor.
• Fresh Garlic: The star of the show, lending warmth and depth to every bite.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the rice with savory goodness while it cooks.
• Heavy Cream: Introduces the creamy element that makes the rice so indulgent.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the hot rice, creating a cheesy, salty finish.
• Salt & Pepper: To balance and enhance all the other flavors.

---

How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice

Step 1: Toast the Rice in Butter

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the grains to lightly toast. This step deepens the flavor of the rice and creates a slightly nutty aroma.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic—you want a gentle release of flavor, not bitterness.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and rice is tender.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Once the rice is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Keep the pot on low heat, stirring gently until the cheese is melted and everything looks creamy and cohesive.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Spoon into a serving bowl, and if desired, garnish with a little extra Parmesan or chopped parsley for color.

---

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Rice

This rice is the perfect companion to roasted chicken, grilled seafood, or sautéed vegetables. For a full meal, pair it with a fresh salad and a drizzle of lemon for brightness. It also works well as a cozy side dish for holiday spreads or weeknight comfort dinners.

To store, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. The texture will be slightly nuttier and more firm.

Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Absolutely. Just reheat it gently with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture before serving.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can use plant-based butter and coconut cream or almond milk, but note that the flavor will be slightly different. Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

What protein pairs well with this rice?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, steak strips, or even roasted chickpeas go wonderfully with this rice dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Reheat slowly and add a bit of cream to help smooth it out.

How can I make it more flavorful?

Try adding sautéed onions, a pinch of crushed red pepper, or even fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

---

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Comforting Twist?

If you love this creamy rice dish, you’ll definitely want to try these next:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with savory layers of cheesy goodness.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for an all-in-one cheesy comfort meal.
• Delicious Corned Beef Hash if you’re craving something hearty and filling.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce to match the garlicky flavor theme.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice for another rice-based classic.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist of herbs? Maybe swapped the cream for something lighter?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: