Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice when I want a comforting and delicious side dish. The combination of creamy texture and cheesy goodness is irresistible! Spinach adds a lovely green color and a boost of nutrients, making this dish not just tasty but also healthy. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, and I often find myself enjoying it straight from the bowl. Try it out next time you have friends over; they will be begging for the recipe!

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:02:35.268Z

Making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice became a staple in my kitchen after I accidentally combined leftover rice with a creamy sauce. It was a happy accident that turned into an obsession! I learned that the key to the creaminess lies in using a mix of cream and freshly grated Parmesan, which melds beautifully with the flavors of garlic and spinach.

Each time I make this dish, I experiment with variations, like adding in cooked chicken or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra twist. This versatility means I can make it the star of the meal or a comforting side.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich creamy texture that complements any main dish
Nutritious spinach adds both flavor and color
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice in this recipe is key to achieving that rich, creamy texture. Arborio rice has a high starch content, which contributes to the dish's creaminess as it cooks. When toasting the rice, watch for a subtle nutty aroma, and ensure not to skip this step; it enhances the flavors significantly. This type of rice typically takes about 15-20 minutes to cook, absorbing the broth beautifully while still maintaining a slight bite, known as 'al dente.'

If you don’t have Arborio rice on hand, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano can be great substitutes due to their similar starch levels. However, avoid using long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine, as they won’t yield the same creamy result and can lead to a more dry texture.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Incorporating fresh spinach not only beautifies the dish with its vibrant green color but also introduces a delicate sweetness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. I always recommend using fresh spinach over frozen, as it maintains a better texture and flavor profile. If you are out of fresh spinach, consider using other leafy greens like Swiss chard or kale, but adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may require more time to soften.

The garlic adds a warm, aromatic backdrop to the dish. Sautéing it in the olive oil before adding the rice allows the flavors to deepen. Keep an eye on the garlic while it cooks; it can turn from lightly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds, ruining the depth of flavor you're aiming for.

Storing and Serving Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

This dish pairs perfectly with both grilled chicken and fish, making it a versatile side for any dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Additionally, you can elevate the dish further by adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for another layer of flavor!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious and creamy dish.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy masterpiece.

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Arborio rice and toast it for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Pour in vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice absorbs most of the broth.

Add Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and chopped spinach. Mix well and allow to cook for another 5 minutes. If necessary, add salt and pepper to taste.

Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dish while cooking to enhance its savory flavors.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

This recipe is easily adaptable for various dietary preferences. To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a blend of cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, try using a dairy-free grated cheese or omitting the cheese altogether for a lighter version.

For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is already safe as Arborio rice is gluten-free. Be sure to check the broth label to confirm it is also gluten-free, especially if using store-bought versions.

Scaling the Recipe

This creamy rice dish is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Doubling the recipe is straightforward—you’ll just need a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume. Keep the broth-to-rice ratio at 2:1 for consistent results. However, ensure to monitor cooking times; larger quantities may take a few additional minutes to absorb the liquid fully.

If you're preparing this as a side for a party, consider making a large batch and serving it in a warmed serving dish. To keep the rice warm without overcooking, cover it with a lid or foil and place it in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 93°C) until ready to serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but cooking time and liquid ratios may vary; brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free version.

→ How can I make this a complete meal?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein to make it a satisfying main course.

→ Can I freeze leftover rice?

Yes, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container. It's best consumed within a month.