Creamy Mushroom Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Tomato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Collection

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Tomato Rice because it’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly and easily. Every time I prepare it, the rich flavors of mushrooms and tomatoes mingle beautifully, creating a hearty meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward. The creaminess of the dish is just divine, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or even as a side for entertaining guests. Join me in creating this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:49:35.926Z

Making Creamy Mushroom Tomato Rice has become one of my go-to meals because it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. I often experiment with different types of mushrooms, which adds unique flavors each time I make it. The base of arborio rice helps absorb all the delicious juices while creating that rich creaminess we all crave.

I’ve found that sautéing the mushrooms first really enhances their flavor, so that’s a tip I always share with friends. Once combined with fresh tomatoes and a splash of cream, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that’s incredibly satisfying
Earthy mushrooms balanced with fresh tomato flavors
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture in this dish. Its high starch content makes it perfect for absorbing the flavors of broth while releasing starch as it cooks, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. When cooking, it's important to stir occasionally, which helps the rice release more starch and enhances creaminess. If Arborio rice isn't available, you can substitute it with Carnaroli or even sushi rice, though the texture may vary slightly.

To properly gauge the cooking process, look for the rice to become al dente, with a slight bite in the center. This usually takes about 15 minutes when simmered gently. If the rice absorbs the broth too quickly, you can add a little more broth or water, a few tablespoons at a time, ensuring it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.

The Role of Mushrooms and Tomatoes

The mushrooms in this recipe not only add a rich earthy flavor but also contribute to the overall heartiness of the dish. I recommend using a mix of different mushrooms for depth—cremini and shiitake work wonderfully together. Sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown; this step enhances their flavor and texture, giving the dish a more robust taste.

Cherry tomatoes bring a refreshing sweetness that balances the richness of the cream and mushrooms. Halving them allows for a quicker cook time and ensures they soften just enough to burst, releasing their juices into the rice. If you prefer, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes, but consult the cooking time to prevent overcooking them.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Tomato Rice

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the mushrooms, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to brown.

Cook the Rice

Next, add the arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the flavorful oils. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is creamy and cooked through.

Add the Tomatoes and Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just enough to heat the tomatoes through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil for an added touch of flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, or mix in some spinach or peas for added nutrition!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Tomato Rice is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can cook it a day in advance, but it's best to omit the cream until you're ready to reheat and serve. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to increase creaminess and ensure it doesn’t dry out.

If you want to freeze leftovers, let them cool completely then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove. Again, adding a bit of broth will help restore its creamy texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Enhance this dish with grated Parmesan cheese stirred in just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or tofu. Alternatively, toss in leafy greens like spinach or kale along with the tomatoes for a vibrant twist. These additions not only complement the existing flavors but also elevate the nutritional profile of the meal.

Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. A glass of white wine would also beautifully accompany the earthy mushroom flavors. Feeling adventurous? Try adding different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to keep things exciting on your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

While arborio rice is recommended for its creaminess, you can use other short-grain rice varieties, but the texture may differ.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and ensure your ingredients are gluten-free, this dish can be gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan alternative, and use plant-based broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth if necessary.