Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake. There's something incredibly comforting about the combination of creamy mushrooms and perfectly cooked rice. Each bite is filled with rich flavors and a satisfying texture that brings joy to the table. It’s a wonderful dish to gather friends and family around, and the best part is that it comes together in just over an hour. I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:16:12.839Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I never expected it to become a family favorite. Cooking the mushrooms until they're golden brings out a depth of flavor that transforms the dish. Incorporating fresh herbs at the end adds a bright note that balances the richness perfectly.

I've learned that using arborio rice is key to achieving that creamy texture without needing too many ingredients. Don’t skip the cheese topping; it creates a delightful golden crust that makes every serving irresistible!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        Creamy texture with every bite
Savory mushrooms add robust flavor
Perfectly cheesy crust that everyone adores

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of arborio rice is crucial for achieving the creamy texture in this bake. Unlike regular long-grain rice, arborio rice contains higher starch levels, which release during cooking, creating a luscious consistency that complements the mushrooms beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute arborio with other short-grain rice varieties, but be mindful that the final texture may vary.

Mushrooms are the star of this dish, infusing it with a savory depth. I recommend a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other types, like portobello or button mushrooms, but ensure they're fresh, as they contribute significantly to the overall taste.

Perfecting the Techniques

Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are just translucent is key to building a flavorful base. Make sure to keep the heat at medium and stir frequently to prevent burning, which can impart bitterness. When adding the mushrooms, give them ample space in the skillet; overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than brown, which affects their flavor.

When toasting the rice, watch for a slightly transparent edge on each grain before adding broth. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and ensures it cooks evenly. Remember to stir it occasionally during the broth addition to prevent sticking—this is essential to achieving that creamy risotto-like finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your creamy mushroom rice bake.

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you'll be set to combine all these ingredients beautifully.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy mushroom rice bake!

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're golden brown.

Prepare Rice

Stir in the arborio rice, allowing it to toast for about 2 minutes. Gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, letting the rice absorb it before adding more. This should take around 20 minutes.

Mix in Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is creamy and cooked, stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix in half of the grated cheese for extra creaminess.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, topping it with the remaining cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden on top.

Let your bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the warmth!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese or add some spinach for an extra texture.

Serving and Pairing

This Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. To elevate it, consider pairing it with a light salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette. The tartness of the dressing contrasts nicely with the richness of the bake, providing a refreshing balance.

For a gathering, I suggest preparing a batch of roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus on the side. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but the slight char of the veggies complements the creamy texture of the rice beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare this bake ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal planning. After mixing the rice with cream and cheese, let it cool before transferring it to your baking dish. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.

Additionally, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, allowing for a few more minutes in the oven if necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for arborio rice?

You can use jasmine or basmati rice, but the creaminess might be slightly different.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! It’s a delicious vegetarian option filled with flavor.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the completed bake for up to three months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.