Looking for a comforting meal that’s sure to warm your belly and your heart? Look no further than creamy rice dishes! There’s something about the combination of tender rice, rich cream, and savory flavors that just makes us feel all cozy and content. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious creamy rice recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
From classic comfort foods like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto to international-inspired dishes like Coconut Milk Creamy Rice Pudding, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or rich and decadent, there’s a creamy rice recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into our collection of 20 delicious creamy rice recipes!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
This creamy risotto is a rich and satisfying side dish or main course, perfect for any occasion. Made with Arborio rice, garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When the rice is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in the parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice
This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich creamy sauce come together in this easy-to-make slow cooker dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Mushroom Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This creamy rice dish is packed with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic, all wrapped in a rich and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked rice with mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese (if using). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Milk Creamy Rice Pudding
A rich and creamy dessert perfect for warm weather, this Coconut Milk Creamy Rice Pudding is a refreshing twist on traditional rice pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Rice Bake
Elevate your mealtime with this creamy, flavorful rice bake that combines the richness of spinach and artichokes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (fresh spinach, frozen chopped spinach)
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed greens, artichoke hearts, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese. Mix well until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and dried oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the tomato-basil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the rice and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Lemon Butter Rice with Herbs
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish, infused with the zest of lemon and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions until tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir until well coated with the lemon butter mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the flavors have melded together and the rice is creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
A spicy and savory twist on traditional shrimp and rice, this dish is a flavorful explosion of Cajun spices and creamy goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined.
6. Serve shrimp mixture over cooked rice and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Spice Rice Porridge
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful rice porridge infused with the sweetness of pumpkin and the warmth of spice. Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the porridge has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the butter is melted and the flavors are well combined.
4. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Broccoli Cheese Rice
A comforting and flavorful side dish that combines the best of creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Combine cooked rice with the cheesy broccoli mixture.
6. In a small saucepan, melt remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese with heavy cream or half-and-half over low heat.
7. Pour the creamy sauce over the rice and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this creamy rice dish infused with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and add to skillet. Stir until well combined.
6. Gradually stir in heavy cream until creamy sauce forms.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Miso Butter Rice
Elevate your rice game with this rich and savory dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together softened butter, miso paste, and soy sauce until smooth.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the miso-butter mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Creamy Wild Rice Soup is made with nutty wild rice, tender vegetables, and a rich cream-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add broth, cooked wild rice, diced tomatoes, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Creamy Truffle Rice with Mushrooms
A rich and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite protein or as a standalone main course. This creamy truffle rice is infused with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creating a truly decadent experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Stir in truffle oil and cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cilantro Lime Rice
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish, infused with the freshness of cilantro and the tanginess of lime. This creamy concoction is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped cilantro and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in heavy cream, lime juice, and cooked rice. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash Rice Risotto
A comforting and flavorful twist on traditional risotto, this creamy butternut squash rice dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the butternut squash and cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed chicken broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Pesto Rice with Pine Nuts
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic side dish, perfect for accompanying your favorite proteins or vegetables. The creamy pesto sauce and toasted pine nuts add a rich and satisfying element to this classic rice recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce and olive oil.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the pesto mixture.
5. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top of the rice and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Saffron Rice with Peas
Elevate your meal with this aromatic and flavorful side dish, infused with the subtle warmth of saffron and the sweetness of fresh peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked saffron threads to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onions.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the saffron mixture.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Stir in the peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Bacon and Pea Rice
Elevate your meal with this creamy, savory dish that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the frozen peas to the skillet and stir until thawed.
4. Add the butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine the cooked rice with the creamy pea mixture. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Matcha Rice Pudding
This Japanese-inspired dessert combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the comforting creaminess of rice pudding, perfect for a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, matcha powder, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
3. Remove from heat, stir in melted butter and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of comfort food with these 20 delicious creamy rice recipes! From classic risottos and casseroles to innovative porridges and soups, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto or Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice. For a vegetarian option, opt for Creamy Mushroom Rice Casserole or Creamy Broccoli Cheese Rice. Whatever the occasion, these creamy rice dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
