This Garlic Parmesan Rice is a simple side dish that packs a lot of flavor! With just garlic, creamy Parmesan cheese, and fluffy rice, it brings a tasty twist to any meal.
I can’t resist the cheesy goodness! It’s perfect for pairing with chicken or veggies. Trust me, you might want to make a big batch—it’s that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Using long-grain white rice gives the dish a nice fluffy texture. You could substitute with basmati or jasmine rice for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, brown rice works too, but it will require more cooking time.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this dish—it adds a wonderful aroma! If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder. About 1 teaspoon should do the trick, but add it when you add the broth to avoid bitterness.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, make sure to find vegetarian Parmesan. Alternatively, Pecorino Romano provides a sharper flavor if you want something different.
Broth: While chicken broth gives a great flavor, vegetable broth is perfect for vegetarian dishes. You could also use water, but I recommend adding more seasonings if you go this route to boost the flavors!
How Do You Get Fluffy Rice Every Time?
Cooking rice might seem simple, but achieving that perfect fluffiness can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure your rice is a success:
- Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from being gummy.
- Toast the rice in butter for a minute or two—it enhances the flavor and helps keep the grains separate.
- Use the right water-to-rice ratio (for long-grain rice, 2:1 is ideal) and let it come to a rolling boil before reducing the heat.
- Once finished, avoid lifting the lid too soon after cooking to let it steam properly, leaving it covered for 5 minutes.
Follow these steps, and your rice will be light and fluffy, ready to soak up all that delicious garlic Parmesan flavor!
Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This garlic Parmesan rice takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish. A perfect side dish that doesn’t take all day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch that can make the rice sticky. Drain it well after rinsing.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as that can make it bitter.
3. Toast the Rice:
Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir it around to coat each grain in the garlic butter. Lightly toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, which will enhance the flavor.
4. Cook the Rice:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the salt and black pepper to the rice mixture. Stir gently to combine. Bring this to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Let it Steam:
Once the rice is done cooking, remove the saucepan from heat. Keep it covered and let it sit for 5 minutes to steam. This will help keep the rice fluffy!
6. Add Cheese & Serve:
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s well mixed. The cheese will melt into the warm rice, making it creamy and delicious. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm!
This garlic Parmesan rice is creamy, savory, and wonderfully aromatic—perfect as a side for chicken, fish, or veggies! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require more cooking time—approximately 40-45 minutes. Additionally, you may need to increase the amount of liquid to 2 1/2 cups to ensure it cooks through properly.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just adjust the quantity according to your taste preference, usually around the same amount works well!
How to Store Leftover Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in a pan with a splash of broth or water to help restore moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic Parmesan rice ahead of time, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently, adding a little broth or water to keep it from drying out.
