This Garlic Parmesan Rice is a simple dish that packs a lot of flavor! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a nice garlic kick that makes it irresistible.
Honestly, it’s one of my go-to sides because it pairs perfectly with just about anything. Plus, who wouldn’t want cheesy rice? It’s like a warm hug on your plate! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using long-grain white rice or jasmine rice for fluffy results. If you only have brown rice, just know it’ll take longer to cook and may require additional water.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth is always a flavor boost if you have some handy!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic works best for that punchy taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is needed for creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor and can replace cheese completely.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my favorite, but you can swap it out with olive oil for a lighter touch or vegan butter if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Can I Make Sure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
Garlic can burn quickly, which will make it taste bitter. To avoid this, cook it over medium heat and watch it closely. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat the oil and 1 tbsp of butter together.
- Add the minced garlic once the butter is melted, and sauté for no more than 1 minute.
- If it starts to brown, immediately remove it from the heat.
This method keeps the garlic flavorful and ensures it complements your dish nicely! Always stir it around to ensure even cooking. If you’re new to cooking with garlic, just practice a bit. It adds so much flavor to your meals!
Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes preparing the ingredients and 15-18 minutes cooking the rice. After that, just a few more minutes to let it sit and fluff up before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from being too sticky. Once done, drain the rice well.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium pot, over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant but not browned—burnt garlic can ruin the flavor!
3. Cook the Rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir well to coat it with the butter and garlic mixture. This step helps the rice absorb all those tasty flavors. Now pour in the chicken broth, and lightly season with salt and black pepper. Bring it to a boil!
4. Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes. Keep it covered—this is where the magic happens! The rice will absorb the broth, becoming fluffy and delicious.
5. Add the Cheese:
After the cooking time, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. It’s going to look creamy and heavenly!
6. Rest and Fluff:
Let your rice sit, covered, for an extra 5 minutes. This allows it to steam a bit more. Then, fluff the rice with a fork for that perfect light texture. If using, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
Serve this delightful Garlic Parmesan Rice warm as a wonderful side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes. Increase the broth to 2 1/4 cups, and check for doneness as it cooks, adjusting the liquid as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the rice, cover, and microwave or warm on the stove until heated through.
Can I Make This Rice Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with a vegan butter or olive oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
What Can I Serve This Rice With?
This Garlic Parmesan Rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a great side for hearty stews or as a base for stir-fries!
