Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 cups mushrooms (mixed varieties), sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love Sunday dinners that bring the family together, and this Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake has become a cherished favorite at our table. With its rich, earthy flavors and creamy texture, it's the perfect comfort food to enjoy after a long week. Each bite feels indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. I love how the mushrooms bring a depth of flavor while the cheesy topping adds a delightful crunch. It's a dish that truly makes Sundays special and warms the heart!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:01:19.545Z

This Sunday Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake has become my go-to dish for family gatherings. I’ve found that using a mix of fresh and dried mushrooms enhances the umami flavor, creating a complex taste that everyone loves. The creamy sauce, made with sour cream and cheese, binds everything together beautifully.

One tip I learned is to toast the rice briefly before adding the liquid. This step gives it a wonderful nuttiness that elevates the overall flavor of the bake. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll always want to include it in your rice dishes!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying for a perfect family meal
Creamy and cheesy finish that pleases everyone
Versatile dish that can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential for this Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake because of its high starch content, which contributes to the dish's wonderfully creamy texture. When cooked, Arborio absorbs the broth efficiently while releasing starch, creating a velvety sauce that binds the other ingredients. Make sure to stir the rice frequently during the initial toasting, as this helps to prevent it from sticking to the skillet and ensures even cooking.

You can achieve a perfect texture by gently simmering the rice and allowing it to soak up the broth gradually. If you notice the mixture becoming too thick or if the rice starts to stick, adding a little more vegetable broth or water can help achieve your desired creaminess. Remember, the final baked dish should be moist, not dry!

The Role of Mushrooms

Using a mix of mushrooms elevates the depth of flavor in your bake. Varieties like cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms can work well together, each offering their unique taste and texture. Sautéing the mushrooms until they release their liquid allows for a richer, more concentrated flavor in the final dish. Keep an eye on them; cooking them too long can lead to a rubbery texture rather than the tender bites we're looking for.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, you can switch out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative while still maintaining the dish's creaminess with more sour cream or a cashew cream. Experimenting with flavors, such as adding a splash of white wine during the mushroom cooking step, can also enhance the overall taste.

Ingredients

For a delightful Sunday meal, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 cups mushrooms (mixed varieties), sliced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a comforting mushroom rice bake:

Prepare the Rice

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent. Add Arborio rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the mushrooms are soft and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is creamy and cooked through.

Add Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in sour cream and half of the shredded cheese until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.

Bake the Dish

Top with the remaining cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture, or a splash of white wine when cooking the mushrooms. It's also great with added vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain moisture. When ready to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, as this helps it cook evenly and reduces baking time.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick meal. Just add a splash of broth or water to the dish for added moisture during reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Customizing Your Bake

One of the best features of this Creamy Mushroom Rice Bake is its versatility! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas, for a colorful twist. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic to incorporate their flavors before mixing them with the rice. You could even mix in some cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.

If you fancy a bit of spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce before baking. Not only will this enhance the heat, but it will also provide an unexpected zing that elevates the comforting flavors of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth and ensure the cheese is free from animal rennet.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble everything a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it fresh when you are ready to serve.

→ What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add cooked chicken, different vegetables, or even some spices like paprika for additional flavor.