Description
Parmesan Garlic Rice is a quick and easy-to-make side dish that perfectly balances creamy, cheesy richness with bold garlic flavor. Made with simple ingredients like long-grain rice, fresh garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, this flavorful and versatile recipe is ideal for weeknights or special gatherings. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or enjoy it as a comforting standalone dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warm
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely mince the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese. Measure the rice and warm the broth so everything is ready before cooking.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the saucepan with the garlic butter. Stir and toast the rice for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor and prevent sticking.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the warm chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer gently for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan and Season: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add chopped fresh parsley if desired and mix well.
Notes
- Use warm broth to ensure even cooking and prevent lumps.
- Don’t skip toasting the rice; it maximizes nutty flavor and improves texture.
- Parmesan is naturally salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
- Cover the pot tightly while simmering to trap steam and cook rice perfectly.
- Let the rice rest off the heat for 5 minutes to allow grains to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Parmesan garlic rice, cheesy rice, garlic rice side dish, easy rice recipe, quick side dish, vegetarian, gluten free
