If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy, flavor-packed side dish, Garlic Parmesan Rice might just steal the show. Creamy, buttery, and loaded with savory garlic and nutty Parmesan, it’s the type of rice you’ll crave long after the last spoonful. Ready in about 20 minutes, this easy recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a dinnertime favorite everyone will adore!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Creamy Texture: Each grain of rice is silky and coated in a rich Parmesan sauce—absolutely heavenly from the first bite to the last.
- Elevates Any Meal: This Garlic Parmesan Rice transforms basic dinners into something special—think steak night, baked chicken, or a weeknight stir-fry gone gourmet.
- Minimal Kitchen Fuss: All you need are a skillet and a few pantry ingredients—no fancy equipment or hard-to-find items required.
- Kid (and Adult!) Approved: The comforting, familiar flavors of garlic and cheese make even picky eaters ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Garlic Parmesan Rice so fabulous is that it’s made with classic, humble ingredients that you probably have right now. Every component—whether it’s the butter, broth, or cheese—plays a unique role in creating irresistible flavor, richness, and a picture-perfect finish.
- Butter: The foundation for silkiness and flavor—start with butter to toast the garlic and rice for those golden, nutty undertones.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds punchy depth and irresistible aroma (don’t skimp—you want every bite to sing with flavor!).
- Long Grain Rice: Rinsed and drained so it cooks fluffy, not sticky—perfect for soaking up all those savory flavors.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (or Water): Broth brings loads of savory depth; water will work, but broth makes the rice truly crave-worthy.
- Onion Powder & Granulated Garlic: These amp up that garlicky savoriness while keeping the overall flavor balanced and round.
- Whole Milk: Just a splash for extra richness and a creamy finish—don’t substitute with water for this step!
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient—gives that magical salty, nutty kick that ties everything together.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning! Taste and adjust so every bite pops.
- Chopped Parsley, Green Onions or Chives: Optional, but perfect for a bright, fresh finish and pop of color.
Variations
Garlic Parmesan Rice is delicious as written, but once you know the basic formula, you can spin it a hundred different ways. Try mixing things up based on what you’re craving, what’s in your fridge, or how you want to fit it into a meal.
- Add Veggies: Stir in peas, sautéed mushrooms, or baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh veggie boost.
- Make It Creamier: Swap in a splash of heavy cream for the milk if you want your rice ultra-rich and decadent.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for gentle, back-of-the-throat heat that cuts through the creaminess.
- Herb Lovers: Fold in minced basil, thyme, or rosemary for a garden-fresh aroma that pairs especially well with roasted proteins.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, stirring often—your kitchen will smell amazing! The garlic should turn fragrant and just begin to soften and color, but not burn.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Next, stir in the rinsed and drained long grain rice. Keep stirring for 3–4 minutes, letting the grains toast and absorb that garlicky butter—this step builds both flavor and that irresistible nutty aroma. Don’t step away; keep things moving so nothing scorches.
Step 3: Simmer with Broth & Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then sprinkle in the onion powder and granulated garlic. Give it all a good stir so everything melts into the rice. Lower the heat, cover loosely, and let the rice simmer gently. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking, and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes until perfectly tender.
Step 4: Creamy Finish
Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the pan from the heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, pour in the milk, and sprinkle over the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese fully melts and the rice gets irresistibly creamy—this is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serve
Taste and season with salt and plenty of black pepper. Pile the rice into bowls or onto plates, and don’t forget to finish with fresh parsley, green onions, or chives, plus an extra shower of Parmesan. Best served hot and fresh!
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Rice Selection Matters: Use long grain rice for the best texture—it stays fluffy and never goes mushy, even with all the creamy additions.
- Don’t Rush the Toasting: Take your time with toasting the rice in butter. This easy step adds irresistible nutty flavor and prevents sticky, bland rice.
- Slow, Gentle Simmer: Keep the heat low once the liquid is added. High heat might evaporate the broth too quickly before the rice is tender and creamified.
- Add Cheese Off Heat: Always add the Parmesan after you remove the skillet from the heat—otherwise, it can clump or turn rubbery instead of silken and melty.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Rice
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a great garnish. For the prettiest and tastiest Garlic Parmesan Rice, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, delicate chive rings, or thinly sliced green onions adds vibrant color and a pop of freshness—plus, another flutter of Parmesan on top is always welcome for cheese lovers!
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Rice is a true team player. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, seared salmon, or baked pork chops for a restaurant-worthy meal. It also shines beneath a veggie stir-fry or as a decadent swap for mashed potatoes with steak and green beans. Honestly? It goes with almost anything!
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping table moment, spoon Garlic Parmesan Rice into a pretty serving bowl and scatter with extra herbs and a dusting of Parmesan. Hosting a party? Try shaping the rice in a small ramekin for tidy, individual mounds, or use it as a flavorful base for a “rice bar” with grilled veggies and proteins on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Garlic Parmesan Rice keeps beautifully! Cool leftover rice quickly, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it chills, making for even tastier leftovers tomorrow.
Freezing
You can freeze this rice too! Scoop cooled Garlic Parmesan Rice into freezer-safe bags or containers, flatten for quick thawing, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently straight from frozen with a splash of broth or milk for creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, scoop rice into a microwave-safe bowl or warm gently in a skillet, adding a little extra milk or broth if needed. Stir often and heat just until steaming and creamy—overcooking can make the cheese seize, so watch closely for that perfect, melty finish.
FAQs
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Can I make Garlic Parmesan Rice vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely vegetarian dish. The savory, cheesy flavor remains just as satisfying.
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What’s the best type of rice for this recipe?
I recommend long grain rice, which cooks up fluffy and absorbs flavors beautifully. Short grain or medium grain rice will be stickier but can work if that’s what you have on hand—just rinse extra well before cooking!
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Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
You can, but freshly grated Parmesan melts best and packs a fuller, richer flavor. Pre-grated cheese works in a pinch but may not have quite the same creaminess or bold cheesy finish.
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Is Garlic Parmesan Rice gluten free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you use gluten free broth. Always check ingredient labels to make sure no hidden gluten sneaks in.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to upgrade your side dish routine, Garlic Parmesan Rice is guaranteed to become a household staple. Quick to make and endlessly comforting, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for on busy weeknights and dinner parties alike. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it disappears before you can sneak seconds!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe that is creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic goodness. This dish is a perfect side to any main course or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 4 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese, more for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley, green onions, or chives, optional garnish
Ingredients:
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Cook Garlic: In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant.
- Toast Rice: Add rinsed and drained rice to the skillet, toast for 3-4 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in broth, onion powder, and granulated garlic. Stir well.
- Cook Rice: Cover and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes until tender.
- Finish Rice: Remove from heat, add remaining butter, parmesan, and milk. Stir until creamy.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley and parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure to watch the rice closely while toasting to prevent burning.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.
- Feel free to add additional herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
