Creamy Garlic Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Tomato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Tomato Rice for its rich combination of flavors and creamy texture that elevates any meal. The garlic brings a zest that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. When I first made it, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to make something so luxurious. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or seafood, making it a versatile side or a satisfying main dish.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:10:12.472Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was looking for a quick, comforting recipe to serve at dinner. I decided to combine garlic and tomatoes for a creamy base, and the outcome exceeded my expectations! My family couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was, and now I often make it as a staple during busy weekdays.

One key tip that I learned is to let the rice absorb the flavors fully before serving. It really enhances the overall taste, so I make sure to allow it a few extra minutes off the heat to marinate in its own creaminess.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
A perfect balance of garlic and tomato flavors
Easily customizable with your favorite proteins or vegetables

      

Mastering the Base Flavors

The foundation of this Creamy Garlic Tomato Rice lies in the sautéed aromatics. Cooking the onion until translucent releases its natural sweetness, while the garlic infuses the dish with robust flavor. Aim for about 3-4 minutes over medium heat; watch closely to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can reduce the amount or add it later in the cooking process.

When toasting the rice, ensure it’s well-coated in the olive oil and garlic mixture. This step not only enhances the flavor but also creates a slightly nutty undertone that balances the creaminess of the dish. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the grains look glossy and slightly translucent—this visual cue indicates that the rice is ready for the next step.

Creamy Finish and Variations

The heavy cream is what brings this dish together, creating a luxurious, velvety texture. When incorporating it, remove the skillet from heat and stir gently to prevent curdling. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, like coconut cream; just note that this may introduce new flavors. Keep in mind that the cream should be at room temperature to blend seamlessly with the rice.

Feel free to customize this dish by adding proteins or vegetables. For instance, diced chicken or shrimp can be added during the simmering phase; adjust cooking times accordingly. For a vegetarian option, toss in some spinach or kale just before serving for added nutrition and vibrant color. This versatility makes it easy to adapt to your pantry staples or dietary preferences!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Preparation Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.

Add Liquid and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is cooked.

Stir in the Cream

Once the rice is done, remove it from heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until fully combined and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy the creamy garlic tomato rice warm as a delightful side or main dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, feel free to add grated parmesan cheese to the rice just before serving. It adds a deliciously nutty taste that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Storage Tips

This Creamy Garlic Tomato Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture and prevent it from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

If you want to make it in advance, consider cooking the rice without the heavy cream. Store the rice and the tomato mixture separately, then combine and heat with cream just before serving. This method not only preserves texture but also makes it easier to manage leftovers!

Troubleshooting

If the rice isn’t fully cooked after the simmering time, it’s likely due to the heat being too low or the pan being too tightly covered. Check for doneness and add a little more broth if needed, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. The rice should be tender and all liquid absorbed—this makes for a perfectly creamy final dish.

Overcooking the rice can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, ensure you keep the lid on tight to lock in steam but check intermittently. Remember, once you add the heavy cream and stir, you're aiming for a smooth, yet firm consistency; if it seems soupy, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream to keep it vegan.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat it. Just be sure to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating if it seems dry.

→ What proteins pair well with this rice?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables are excellent options that complement the flavors of the rice.