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If you’ve been searching for a comfort food side that feels both indulgent and effortlessly delicious, this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Creamy, buttery, and bursting with savory garlic and nutty parmesan, this dish transforms simple rice into something truly special. Whether you’re pairing it with your favorite protein or enjoying it as a satisfying meal on its own, each spoonful delivers warmth and flavor that’s hard to beat. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe, it’ll find a permanent spot on your weekly menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create an irresistible base of flavor. Each element plays a crucial role—from the butter that adds richness, to the parmesan that brings cheesy depth, and the garlic that infuses every grain with aromatic goodness.
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided: Butter lends creaminess and a luscious mouthfeel that perfectly coats the rice grains.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: The star flavor that gives the dish its signature savory punch.
- 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed and drained: Long grain rice stays fluffy and separate, ideal for this creamy yet textured recipe.
- 2 cups chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice with subtle savory notes—broth is preferred for extra depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and richness without overpowering the garlic.
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic: Enhances the garlic flavor for a more layered taste experience.
- 4 tablespoons whole milk: This rounds out the creaminess and softens the texture for a velvety finish.
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, more for serving: Parmesan melts into the rice, adding a delightful umami richness and a hint of nuttiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring balance and highlight the other flavors.
- Parsley, green onions, or chives, optional garnish: Fresh herbs to brighten the dish and make it look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Cook Garlic
Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook gently until it becomes fragrant and just starts to take on a hint of golden color. This step builds the aromatic foundation of the dish, so don’t rush it. The slow cooking infuses the butter with garlic’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Next, add the rinsed and drained long grain rice to the skillet. Stir it around for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the rice grains to toast lightly in the garlicky butter. This toasting adds texture and prevents the rice from becoming mushy later while introducing a subtle nutty note that complements the parmesan wonderfully.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 2 cups of your chosen broth or water, then sprinkle in the onion powder and granulated garlic. Stir everything thoroughly to combine. The broth is what will cook the rice and soak up all those spectacular flavors. This mixture will soon turn into a tender, flavor-packed base.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Resist the urge to peek too often; keeping the lid on ensures the rice steams perfectly, achieving the ideal texture.
Step 5: Finish with Butter, Parmesan, and Milk
Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, the shredded parmesan cheese, and the whole milk. Mix gently but thoroughly until the cheese melts and the rice becomes creamy and luscious. This finishing touch turns simple cooked rice into a decadent treat.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the rice with salt and pepper to your liking, then sprinkle with optional fresh herbs like parsley or chives and a little extra parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe steaming hot as a comforting side or a tasty entree—either way, it’s guaranteed to wow.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, green onions, or chives make a perfect finishing touch, adding vibrant color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese on top adds a little salty crunch and boosts that signature flavor.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, sautéed shrimp, or a juicy steak. It also works wonderfully alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter, balanced meal. The creamy rice complements just about any protein or veggie, making it incredibly versatile.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the rice in small individual ramekins, topped with fresh herbs and a parmesan crisp for texture contrast. You can also stuff it inside roasted bell peppers or use it as a flavorful base for rice bowls loaded with your favorite toppings like sautéed mushrooms, avocado, or a drizzle of pesto.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually intensify as it rests, making it a delicious option for quick meals throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the rice by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the rice on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back its creamy texture. Alternatively, warm it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating and to prevent drying out. Adding a little extra parmesan at this stage freshens it up beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice or another type of rice in this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe?
Brown rice can be used, but it will require longer cooking times and more liquid. The texture will also be nuttier and a bit chewier, which is delicious but different from the classic creamy result you get with long grain white rice.
Is chicken broth necessary or can I just use water?
Water works just fine if you don’t have broth on hand, but broth adds depth and richness that perfectly complements the garlic and parmesan flavors. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for vegetarians.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based margarine or olive oil, choose a dairy-free milk alternative like oat or almond milk, and substitute parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
Can I add other vegetables or protein directly to the rice while cooking?
Absolutely! Stir in cooked mushrooms, peas, or spinach near the end of cooking for added nutrition and color. Precooked proteins like diced chicken or shrimp can be folded in just before serving to make it more of a one-pan meal.
What’s the best way to get the rice extra creamy?
Ensure not to skip the final step where butter, parmesan, and milk are stirred into the rice off the heat. Gently folding these in while the rice is hot helps create that luscious, creamy texture that makes this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe so addictive.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of garlic and parmesan-infused rice that brings joy with every bite. This Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is straightforward, uncomplicated, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for day-to-day meals or special dinners that require a little extra love. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your go-to side or even a mainstay. So go ahead, grab your skillet and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
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Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is a creamy, flavorful side dish that combines tender long grain rice with rich butter, aromatic garlic, and sharp parmesan cheese. Quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s perfect for complementing a variety of main courses and garnished with fresh herbs for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Butter and Dairy
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 4 tablespoons whole milk
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Garnish (Optional)
- Parsley, green onions, or chives
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Cook Garlic: In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Toast Rice: Add the rinsed and drained long grain rice to the skillet. Stir continuously and toast the rice for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to absorb the butter and garlic flavors.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water. Sprinkle in the onion powder and granulated garlic. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
- Cook Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer the rice for 10 to 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Finish Rice: Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, shredded parmesan cheese, and whole milk. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or chives and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the consistency with more milk if a creamier texture is desired.
- Garnishes like parsley, green onions, or chives add freshness and color to the dish.
