Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
If you are craving a comforting side dish that sings with flavor, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe. It combines the rich, savory notes of garlic and parmesan cheese with fluffy, tender rice to create a dish that’s not only simple to make but absolutely irresistible. Whether you are hosting a dinner or just want to elevate your everyday meals, this recipe brings warmth and a burst of deliciousness that everyone will love. It’s a perfect blend of creamy texture and aromatic goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe, you only need a handful of basic ingredients that pack a punch. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and even a touch of color that makes this rice truly stand out on your dinner table.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic, infusing the rice with buttery flavor.
- Minced garlic: The star aromatic that brings a fragrant depth to the dish.
- Long grain rice: Provides a light, fluffy texture and is perfect for absorbing all those wonderful flavors.
- Chicken broth (or vegetable broth/water): Liquid base that cooks the rice and adds savory notes.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory dimension and complements the garlic.
- Granulated garlic: Adds an extra punch of garlic flavor for that unmistakable taste.
- Whole milk: Brings creaminess and balances the saltiness of the cheese.
- Shredded parmesan cheese: The cheesy star ingredient that melts in for a luscious, savory finish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, season the rice perfectly.
- Parsley, green onions, or chives (optional garnish): Brighten the dish with a fresh, colorful touch.
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. Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This gentle sauté develops the garlic’s sweet and savory notes that will infuse every bite of the rice.
Step 2: Toast Rice
Next, stir in the rinsed and drained long grain rice and let it toast in the garlic butter for about 3 to 4 minutes. Toasting the rice not only boosts the flavor but also helps achieve a perfect texture where each grain remains separate and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 2 cups of your chosen broth, whether chicken, vegetable, or water, along with the onion powder and granulated garlic. Stir everything well to combine these flavorful ingredients evenly throughout the rice.
Step 4: Cook Rice
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook gently for 10 to 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. This slow simmer allows the rice to soak up the rich broth and seasoning, making it wonderfully tasty.
Step 5: Finish Rice
Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, whole milk, and shredded parmesan cheese. Stir vigorously to melt the cheese and create a creamy, luscious texture that makes this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe truly special.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season the rice with salt and pepper according to your taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese if you like. Serve it hot for the best experience.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or thinly sliced green onions brings a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the creamy, garlicky rice. Don’t forget an extra dusting of parmesan to amp up that cheesy goodness right before serving.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or a hearty vegetable stew. It’s fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad, offering a comforting balance to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the rice inside hollowed bell peppers or stuff it into portobello mushrooms, then bake lightly for a stunning presentation. Alternatively, use it as a bed for a juicy steak or seared scallops to elevate your plates for a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it a perfect easy addition to quick weekday meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this rice if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the rice gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture and stir occasionally to warm it evenly without drying out the rice.
FAQs
Can I use any type of rice for this Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe?
Long grain rice works best because it stays fluffy and separate when cooked, but you can try jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant variation. Avoid using sticky rice varieties as they will alter the texture.
Is it okay to substitute the butter with olive oil?
Yes, olive oil can be used for a slightly different flavor profile and is a great alternative if you want a lighter or dairy-free option, though the richness from butter is part of what makes this dish so indulgent.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian-friendly Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
How can I add more veggies to the rice?
Stir in cooked peas, diced bell peppers, or spinach towards the end of cooking for some added color, texture, and nutrition. Just be sure not to add too much liquid to keep the rice perfectly creamy.
What type of parmesan cheese is best to use?
Freshly shredded parmesan cheese is ideal because it melts beautifully and has a fresher, richer flavor than pre-grated varieties. It really makes the dish shine!
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, cozy friend you want to invite over again and again. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and wonderfully versatile. Once you try it, this creamy, garlicky rice will likely become a new staple in your kitchen, perfect for turning any meal into a special occasion with little effort. Go ahead and treat yourself to this comforting favorite—you’ll be so glad you did.
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Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe combines rich butter, fragrant garlic, and savory parmesan cheese to create a comforting side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Butter and Garlic
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
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
Finishing Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons whole milk
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley, green onions, or chives, optional garnish
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Cook Garlic: In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast Rice: Add the rinsed and drained long grain rice to the skillet with the garlic and butter. Stir and toast the rice for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to become slightly golden and coated in the butter.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth or water), then sprinkle in the onion powder and granulated garlic. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Cook Rice: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook gently for 10-15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Finish Rice: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, the shredded parmesan cheese, and the whole milk. Mix thoroughly until the rice is creamy and the cheese is melted throughout.
- Season and Serve: Season the rice with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or chives if desired, and additional parmesan cheese. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Using chicken broth adds extra flavor, but vegetable broth or water can be used for a lighter taste or dietary preferences.
- Keep the heat low during cooking to prevent the rice from burning or sticking to the skillet.
- Garnishes like parsley or chives add a fresh color and mild flavor contrast.
- This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
