Mushroom Rice – Easy, Savory, and One-Pan Side Dish

When you need a side dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and a little bit special, Mushroom Rice is the answer.

Bursting with the earthy richness of mushrooms and buttery, fluffy rice, this dish feels luxurious while staying incredibly easy to prepare.

It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday tables, or anytime you want to elevate a simple meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan, easy to make, and full of flavor

Rich, savory mushroom taste without any complicated steps

Versatile – pairs with chicken, beef, pork, or vegetarian mains

Simple ingredients, big results

Ready in about 30 minutes

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Butter – adds richness and depth to the rice

Olive oil – helps sauté the mushrooms without burning

Yellow onion – brings sweetness and aroma

Mushrooms – baby bella or white button mushrooms work best

Garlic – boosts the savory flavor

Long-grain rice – like jasmine or basmati for a fluffy texture

Chicken broth – adds deeper flavor to the rice

Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning

Fresh parsley – optional, for garnish and freshness

Pro Tips Before You Start

Slice mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear for fluffier results.

Use a mix of butter and olive oil for a balanced richness.

Don’t rush the mushroom sautéing—browning adds serious flavor.

Let the rice rest after cooking before fluffing to lock in moisture.

How to Make Mushroom Rice

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Rinse the rice well under cold water until the water runs clear.

Slice the mushrooms and finely dice the onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and their moisture has evaporated—about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the mushrooms.

Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir well to coat each grain with the buttery mushroom mixture.

Toast for 1–2 minutes to enhance the nutty flavor.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Rest and Fluff

Remove from heat. Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes.

Then fluff gently with a fork.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

What to Serve It With

Grilled or roasted chicken

Beef steak or meatloaf

Roasted pork tenderloin

Garlic butter shrimp

Sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables

Variations / Substitutions

Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms for extra depth.

Stir in some frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color.

Try wild mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster for a gourmet twist.

Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.

Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

Great for meal prep—makes an excellent side for multiple dinners!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time according to package instructions and add extra broth if needed.

What mushrooms are best for this dish?

Baby bella, cremini, or white button mushrooms work perfectly.

For deeper flavor, you can mix in some shiitake.

Why rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier, non-sticky rice.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Definitely—stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu at the end.

Can I cook this in a rice cooker?

You can sauté the mushrooms separately, then add everything to the rice cooker and cook as you normally would.

What if my rice is still a little firm?

Add a few tablespoons of hot water, cover, and simmer a few more minutes until tender.

Final Thoughts

This Mushroom Rice recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

The rich flavor of sautéed mushrooms, the buttery soft rice, and a hint of fresh herbs make it a side dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Serve it alongside your favorite mains, or enjoy it as a cozy, meatless meal on its own—it’s that good!