Creamy Garlic Parmesan Butter Rice

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Butter Rice is the kind of simple side dish that quietly steals the spotlight. While it starts with everyday pantry staples, the result feels rich, comforting, and effortlessly elegant. First, fragrant garlic blooms in butter, then tender rice absorbs warm broth until perfectly fluffy. Finally, freshly grated Parmesan melts in, creating a silky texture that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Because rice has been a global comfort food for centuries, variations like this one evolved naturally across Italian-inspired kitchens. In fact, Parmesan-finished rice became popular as home cooks looked for quick ways to elevate humble grains. Meanwhile, butter and garlic added warmth, while cheese delivered depth.

Whether served alongside chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables, this recipe adapts beautifully. Plus, it comes together easily, making it ideal for both weeknights and special meals. Above all, it proves that simple ingredients, when treated thoughtfully, can create something truly memorable.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 cup long-grain white rice
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 cups chicken broth, warm
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 Tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp smoked paprika
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Rinse and prep:
First, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, drain well and set aside.

2. Build the flavor base:
Meanwhile, heat butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant, not browned.

3. Toast the rice:
Next, stir in the rice, coating every grain in the butter mixture. Cook for about 1 minute to lightly toast.

4. Simmer gently:
Then, pour in warm chicken broth, add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and stir once. Bring to a gentle boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 16–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

5. Finish creamy:
Afterward, remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork, then fold in Parmesan until creamy.

6. Garnish and serve:
Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Toast for depth: Toasting the rice briefly before simmering enhances nutty flavor while improving texture and separation.
• Warm broth matters: Using warm broth keeps cooking even and prevents starchy clumping during absorption.
• Finish off heat: Adding Parmesan after resting preserves creaminess without turning oily or grainy.