Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice

Save this recipe on:

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice is the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight. With its velvety texture, rich garlic aroma, and the bold umami punch of Parmesan, it transforms a simple bowl of rice into something utterly irresistible. This dish is fast enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for dinner guests.

Imagine each spoonful delivering buttery, cheesy comfort with just the right touch of garlic. Whether you’re pairing it with roasted meats, saucy chicken, or veggie-packed mains, this rice is the creamy companion you didn’t know you were missing.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Long grain white rice works best here. It stays fluffy and separate while absorbing the butter and garlic flavors beautifully. You can use basmati for a slightly nutty note or even jasmine rice for a floral aroma. Just avoid sticky or short-grain types, which may become too mushy.

Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice

• Long grain white rice: The base of the dish, it provides a neutral canvas for the flavors.
• Butter: Adds richness and that signature creamy mouthfeel.
• Minced garlic: Infuses the rice with savory depth.
• Chicken broth: Cooks the rice while layering in flavor.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy consistency.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, umami richness that ties everything together.
• Salt and black pepper: Enhances and balances the overall taste.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of freshness and color.

---

How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat in the garlic butter. Let it toast lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 3: Simmer in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix well until creamy and heated through.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Top with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

---

Serving and Storing This Creamy Side

Serve Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice immediately while it’s hot and melty. It pairs beautifully with anything from grilled chicken to baked salmon. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to revive the texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Parmesan Garlic Butter Rice?

Grilled Lemon Chicken

Bright citrus cuts through the richness of the rice.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

Let the creamy rice soak up every bit of garlicky seafood goodness.

Roasted Vegetables

Balance out the creaminess with some oven-charred zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Try it alongside our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for the ultimate comfort meal.

Seared Ribeye Steak

Steak and Parmesan rice? A match made in weeknight heaven.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts

Double down on the creamy garlic goodness with our Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts.

Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Add a little spice to the cream with our Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce.

---

Want More Rice Side Ideas?

If this creamy Parmesan garlic butter rice speaks your language, explore more rice-forward sides from our kitchen:

• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for cozy, meaty goodness.
• Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli when you want those oven-roasted vibes.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you crave garlic in everything.
• Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo for a surf-and-turf dinner twist.
• Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta to turn weeknight dinner into date night.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you add mushrooms or swap in veggie broth? Did it become your new go-to comfort side?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. And if you’re craving more flavor-packed dishes, don’t forget to explore Lorenzo Devereaux Recipes on Pinterest for daily inspiration.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: