Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Classic

Crafting a delightful garlic parmesan rice dish brings comfort and excitement to your kitchen adventure.

Cheese and aromatic herbs transform simple grains into something magical.

Kitchen experiments often lead to unexpected culinary treasures waiting to be discovered.

Fragrant garlic weaves its enchantment through each fluffy grain, creating layers of irresistible flavor.

Mediterranean influences shine through this uncomplicated yet sophisticated side dish.

Minimal ingredients promise maximum satisfaction for anyone seeking a quick and delicious accompaniment.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this delectable creation.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Why rinse rice before cooking?

Rinsing removes excess surface starch, helping the rice grains stay separate and fluffy instead of becoming sticky or clumpy.

• Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, but cooking times might vary. Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, giving the most consistent texture and absorption of flavors.

• What if I don't have chicken broth?

You can substitute with vegetable broth or water, though chicken broth adds more depth of flavor to the rice.

• How do I know when the rice is perfectly cooked?

The rice is done when it’s tender, most liquid is absorbed, and grains are soft but not mushy. A fork should easily fluff the rice when it’s ready.

Why Garlic Parmesan Rice Is A Comfort Food

• Boost Flavor Instantly: Transform plain rice into a mouthwatering side dish packed with rich garlic and parmesan notes that make every bite irresistible.
• Master Simple Cooking Techniques: Learn how to perfectly cook rice with professional tricks like rinsing grains and maintaining proper liquid ratios for consistently fluffy results.
• Versatile Companion Dish: Complement multiple main courses from roasted chicken to grilled fish, making this recipe a go-to side that adapts to different meal styles and preferences.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Prepare a delicious side dish in less than 30 minutes with minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking steps that even beginner cooks can confidently execute.

What Goes In Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Rice: A fluffy, white grain that serves as the base of this comforting side dish.
• Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid that adds depth and richness to the rice.
• Milk: Provides creaminess and helps create a smooth texture.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps build a smooth, velvety base for the rice.
• Garlic, Parmesan Cheese: Contribute bold, savory flavors that make this rice irresistibly delicious.

• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Parsley: A fresh herb that adds a bright, green note and visual appeal to the finished rice.

Easy Steps To Make Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Wash Rice Clean

Grab your fine mesh sieve and rinse rice under cold running water. Swirl and shake the rice gently to remove extra starches, ensuring each grain stays separate and will cook into a fluffy texture.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic Base

Heat a medium saucepan and melt butter over medium heat. Drop in minced garlic and cook until it turns golden and releases an aromatic fragrance, which takes about one minute.

Step 3: Combine Cooking Liquids

• Rice
• Chicken broth
• Milk
• Salt
• Pepper

Bring the mixture to a soft, gentle simmer. Cover the pan completely and lower the heat to its lowest setting.

Step 4: Slow Cook Rice

Allow rice to cook undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes. Keep the lid sealed to trap steam and help rice absorb liquid evenly. Do not peek inside during cooking.

Step 5: Finish With Cheese

• Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley

Mix gently to distribute flavors throughout the rice.

Step 6: Serve Fluffy Rice

Use a fork to delicately fluff the rice, creating light, airy texture. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Helpful Notes For Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Rinse Rice Thoroughly: Use cold water and a fine mesh sieve to wash away excess starch, ensuring fluffy, separated grains that won't clump together.
• Bloom Garlic Carefully: Sauté minced garlic briefly until lightly golden and aromatic, releasing its rich flavor without burning.
• Control Liquid Absorption: Maintain a gentle simmer and keep the lid sealed to help rice cook evenly and absorb liquid perfectly.
• Cheese Melting Technique: Stir parmesan cheese off the heat to prevent separation and create a smooth, creamy texture throughout the rice.
• Herb Freshness Boost: Sprinkle chopped parsley just before serving to add a vibrant color and bright, fresh flavor to the dish.

Fun Variations Of Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Vegan Herb Rice: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, swap butter with olive oil, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a plant-based version.
• Mediterranean Lemon Rice: Add lemon zest, replace parsley with fresh dill, and include a splash of white wine for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Garlic Rice: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat, use smoked paprika, and add a dash of cayenne pepper to create a spicy kick.
• Mushroom Garlic Rice: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic before adding rice, use mushroom broth, and sprinkle extra umami-rich parmesan for a deeper, earthy taste.

What To Serve With Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Pair Hearty Proteins: Grilled chicken breast or seared salmon perfectly complement the creamy, garlicky rice, balancing its rich flavor profile with lean protein.
• Match with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness of the parmesan, enhancing the garlic's subtle notes and refreshing the palate.
• Create Vegetable Harmony: Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans add vibrant color and fresh texture, providing a light counterpoint to the dense, cheesy rice dish.
• Add Zesty Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette brings bright acidity that cleanses the palate and provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy rice.

How To Store Garlic Parmesan Rice The Right Way

• Store leftover rice in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cold environment helps preserve the rice's texture and prevents bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled rice to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Press out excess air before sealing. Frozen rice maintains quality for 1-2 months. Label containers with the date to track freshness.
• Sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice to restore moisture. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when the rice is steaming hot throughout.

Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan rice delivers a creamy, flavor-packed side dish that elevates any meal with its rich Italian-inspired profile. Savory parmesan and aromatic garlic blend seamlessly, promising you a delightful culinary experience that complements main courses perfectly.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 8 ounces (240 milliliters) chicken broth
• 8 ounces (240 milliliters) whole milk
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Flavor Enhancers:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Seasonings:

• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly rinse rice under cold water to eliminate excess starch, ensuring each grain remains distinct and light when cooked.
2. Warm a saucepan over medium heat and melt butter until it shimmers, then add minced garlic and sauté for approximately 60 seconds until golden and aromatic.
3. Incorporate rice, chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper into the pan, creating a harmonious liquid mixture.
4. Bring the contents to a gentle simmer, then immediately reduce heat to low and cover the pan tightly to trap steam.
5. Allow rice to cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes at low temperature, ensuring liquid is mostly absorbed and rice reaches a tender consistency.
6. Once cooking is complete, remove pan from heat and fold in freshly grated parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley.
7. Delicately separate rice grains using a fork, creating a fluffy texture before transferring to serving dish.

Notes

• Prevent rice clumping by thoroughly rinsing grains under cold water, which removes excess starch and ensures each grain remains separate during cooking.
• Toast garlic carefully to enhance its nutty flavor without burning, creating a rich aromatic base for the rice dish.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing more precise seasoning and accommodating dietary restrictions.
• Experiment with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for lactose-intolerant or plant-based diets, maintaining the recipe’s cheesy essence.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 367 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 490 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg