Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sliced mushrooms (mixed varieties); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating comfort food that brings people together, and that's exactly what this Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake does. It's rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying! Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and creamy rice makes this dish a family favorite. I often make this on lazy Sundays when I want something cozy to share with loved ones. Give it a try the next time you want to indulge in a warm, hearty meal!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:16.692Z

Creating this Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake has become a delightful tradition in my kitchen. I love watching the rice absorb all the flavors from the sautéed mushrooms and herbs. It's truly a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze! By cooking the rice in the same dish, I find that it gets extra creamy and infused with that irresistible mushroom goodness.

One tip I can share is to use a mix of fresh and dried mushrooms for added depth. The freshness gives a wonderful texture, while the dried mushrooms pack a concentrated flavor that makes each bite incredibly satisfying. It’s a simple technique that takes this bake to the next level!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Ultra-creamy texture combined with umami-rich mushrooms
One-pan cleanup makes this dish a breeze to prepare
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for Sunday gatherings

      

Ingredient Insights

Arborio rice is key to achieving the creamy texture in this bake. Unlike regular rice, its high starch content releases during cooking, creating a luscious sauce that clings to each grain. If you can't find Arborio, you can substitute with Carnaroli rice or even short-grain brown rice, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratios for brown rice, as it takes longer to become tender.

Mushrooms add not only flavor but also a meaty texture. Using a mix of mushrooms—such as cremini, shiitake, and button—can enhance the dish’s complexity. Opt for a rough chop to allow the mushrooms to maintain some bite; they should be soft but not mushy after cooking. Fresh mushrooms are ideal, but if you have dried mushrooms, rehydrate them and add them at the same point as fresh, adjusting broth slightly for the extra moisture.

Heavy cream contributes to the dish’s indulgent nature, lending a rich mouthfeel that balances the earthy notes of the mushrooms. For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or whole milk, but this may result in a less creamy final bake. Additionally, lactose-free cream options are available, so feel free to substitute based on dietary needs without compromising utterly on flavor.

Tips for Perfection

When sautéing the onion and garlic, be careful not to let them brown; you want them translucent to allow their sweetness to shine without any bitterness interfering. Use medium heat to control the cooking process effectively, and stir frequently to prevent sticking. If you notice the mixture beginning to caramelize too quickly, lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer which preserves the flavors.

For the best baking results, ensure that your skillet is truly oven-safe. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets are excellent choices. If you’re using a non-stick, double-check manufacturer guidelines; some might not be suitable for high oven temperatures. This prevents warping or releasing harmful chemicals, ensuring both your cooking vessel and dish are safe.

If you want to enhance this dish further, consider adding fresh herbs just before serving, like parsley or chives, for a pop of freshness. To switch things up, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini can be a lovely addition—just toss them in with the mushrooms to offer a vibrant color that complements the dish. These small changes can tailor the bake to your family’s tastes.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup sliced mushrooms (mixed varieties)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté Vegetables

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Mushrooms

Stir in the sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are soft.

Combine Ingredients

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the rice in the oil and vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, mixing well.

Bake

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the rice is cooked and creamy.

Serve

Let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your rich and creamy mushroom rice bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy mushroom rice bake can be assembled a day in advance up to the point of baking. Simply cover the prepared skillet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to enjoy, remove the wrap, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake directly in the oven—it may take an additional few minutes to heat through. This is perfect for busy Sundays when you want something delicious with minimal effort.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven; if using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. You can also add a splash of vegetable broth before reheating to revive some of that creamy texture.

If you’re considering freezing this dish, I recommend baking it first. Once completely cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. To reheat from frozen, let it defrost overnight in the fridge, then warm it up in the oven until heated through. Freezing retains the flavors and textures surprisingly well, making it a great option for meal prep or unexpected guests.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Consider using different types of cheese to change the flavor profile; a sharp cheddar or Gruyère could add a wonderful twist. If someone in your household prefers a vegetarian option, swap the vegetable broth for a homemade mushroom broth, which can deepen the umami flavor even further. For added protein, grilled chicken or sautéed spinach would pair beautifully mixed into the bake before baking.

For a complete meal, serve this creamy mushroom rice bake with a simple side salad. A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the bake, providing a welcome contrast. Alternatively, crusty bread or garlic bread on the side can scoop up the creamy goodness, ensuring every morsel is enjoyed thoroughly.

Don't hesitate to play with spices! A pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add an unexpected depth to the dish. You can also experiment with different herbs based on the season—fresh basil in summer or sage in autumn can reinvigorate this comforting classic with new flavor avenues.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Brown rice will require a longer cooking time and adjustments to the liquid. Arborio rice is preferred for creaminess.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this bake?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or cooked lentils would be great additions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.