If there’s one recipe that completely embodies comfort and crave-worthiness in a single bite, it’s Garlic Parmesan Rice. This dish brings together fluffy, buttery rice, aromatic garlic, and a flurry of rich parmesan cheese for a side that’s impossibly easy yet bursting with flavor. Whether you serve it alongside a weeknight roast or make it the star of a simple dinner, Garlic Parmesan Rice is the sort of recipe everyone asks you for—but it’s so simple you’ll never need to peek at a cookbook.

Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of Garlic Parmesan Rice is its simplicity—each ingredient is purposeful, building layers of flavor and texture that make the dish uniquely irresistible. Gather these essentials for a side that tastes so much greater than the sum of its parts.

Butter: Brings richness and a subtle, velvety background that ties everything together.
Minced Garlic: The star aromatics; freshly minced is best for that mouthwatering fragrance.
Long Grain Rice: Rinsed and drained for fluffiness; this variety holds up perfectly with the buttery sauce.
Chicken Broth: Deepens the flavor, but vegetable broth or water also works if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
Onion Powder: Adds an irresistible savory layer without overpowering the rice.
Granulated Garlic: Gives a little extra punch to the garlic notes, beyond what the fresh garlic provides.
Whole Milk: Provides creaminess that melds beautifully with the cheese.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese: The heart of that cheesy richness—freshly shredded melts best.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the other flavors.
Parsley, Green Onions, or Chives (optional garnish): Add a pop of color and a fresh finish right before serving.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by setting your skillet over medium heat and melting 3 tablespoons of butter. This is where the magic begins! Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle, stirring until it turns just golden and fragrant—about 30 seconds. The kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma, and you’ll know something delicious is on the way.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Once your garlic is perfectly golden, add the rinsed, drained rice right into the skillet. Stir the rice often for 3 to 4 minutes. This toasting step develops a slightly nutty flavor and keeps the grains from clumping, setting the stage for light, fluffy Garlic Parmesan Rice.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the onion powder and granulated garlic. Stir well to combine everything. The rice will start to absorb all those savory flavors, which is exactly what you want for that signature taste.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

With the seasonings blended in, reduce the heat to low and loosely cover your skillet. Let the rice simmer gently, making sure to stir every few minutes so nothing sticks to the bottom. After about 10 to 15 minutes, your rice should be perfectly tender and brimming with flavor.

Step 5: Stir in the Good Stuff

Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately stir in the last tablespoon of butter, shredded parmesan, and milk. This is where Garlic Parmesan Rice gets its signature creamy, cheesy texture. Mix until everything is totally melted and the rice glistens.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Right before serving, crown your rice with fresh parsley, green onions, or chives and maybe an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Serve immediately and get ready for compliments!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garnishes

Nothing elevates a bowl of Garlic Parmesan Rice quite like a vibrant garnish. Try a shower of freshly chopped parsley, a few sliced green onions, or delicate chives. Don’t forget a final flourish of extra parmesan—because there’s no such thing as too much cheese here!

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Rice is fantastically versatile. Pair it with juicy roast chicken, buttery shrimp, or pan-seared salmon for an ultra-satisfying plate. It’s equally lovely as the starchy partner in a vegetarian spread; think alongside roasted broccoli or zesty grilled veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

You can shape Garlic Parmesan Rice into neat mounds using a bowl or ramekin for a touch of elegance, or serve it family-style piled high on a platter. For a fun twist, stuff it into bell peppers or mushrooms and bake until golden and irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Rice keeps remarkably well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before storing to preserve the creamy texture and bright flavors.

Freezing

If you want to stock up, simply portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Flatten out the portions for faster thawing, then freeze for up to 2 months. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you want homemade comfort in minutes.

Reheating

To reheat Garlic Parmesan Rice, sprinkle a splash of milk or broth over the rice and warm it gently in a skillet or in the microwave. Stir well to restore creaminess—just be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the rice and cheese.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice instead of long grain rice?

While you can use instant rice in a pinch, the texture won’t quite match the tender but fluffy grains you get with long grain rice. For the best Garlic Parmesan Rice, stick to long grain varieties and take the few extra minutes to let it cook through.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

If you need a dairy-free version, try swapping the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a creamy unsweetened oat or almond milk. There are also some wonderful vegan parmesan shreds available now that melt and add a deliciously savory note.

Which parmesan cheese is best for Garlic Parmesan Rice?

I always recommend using a wedge of real parmesan and shredding it yourself for maximum meltiness and bold flavor. Pre-shredded cheeses often have anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting as smoothly.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Rice ahead for a party?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and gently reheat before serving. I suggest adding a splash of milk or broth during reheating and an extra sprinkle of parmesan and herbs to revive its fresh-made appeal.

What’s the best way to prevent the rice from sticking or burning?

The secret is to stir the rice frequently, especially while toasting and during cooking, and to keep the heat low and steady after adding the liquid. A nonstick skillet can also make a big difference for easy cleanup.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, soul-warming side that delivers big on flavor, give Garlic Parmesan Rice a try for your next meal. You’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite for family dinners and potlucks alike—simple to whip up, totally comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 10 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe that is easy to make and full of flavor. This dish is perfect as a side or a main course.

Instructions

Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a medium skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant.
Toast Rice: Add rinsed and drained rice to the skillet, stirring often to toast for 3-4 minutes.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in chicken broth, onion powder, and granulated garlic. Stir well.
Cook Rice: Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, add remaining butter, parmesan, and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and more parmesan before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian