Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Rice is a creamy, flavorful side dish that elevates any meal with its rich buttery taste and cheesy goodness. This easy recipe combines fragrant garlic, savory parmesan, and tender rice for a comforting addition to your dinner table.

Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup long grain rice (rinsed and drained)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth or water)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- 4 tablespoons whole milk
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (more for serving)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Parsley, green onions, or chives (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and just beginning to soften and brown.
- Step 2: Add the rinsed and drained rice to the skillet. Stir frequently over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to toast the rice evenly, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the onion powder and granulated garlic until well combined.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Loosely cover the skillet and stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Step 5: Remove from heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, parmesan cheese, and milk. Stir until fully blended and creamy.
- Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and texture.
- Try adding cooked mushrooms or peas for extra veggies.
- Stir in a little cream or half-and-half instead of milk for a richer taste.
Storage
Store leftover garlic parmesan rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to keep the rice fluffy and moist.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with brown rice?
Yes, but cooking time will be longer. Use about 2 ½ cups broth and simmer covered for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth does not contain any gluten additives.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Rice is a creamy, flavorful side dish made by toasting rice with garlic and cooking it in chicken broth, then finishing with butter, milk, and Parmesan cheese for a rich and comforting meal accompaniment. Garnished with fresh herbs, it pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup long grain rice (rinsed and drained)
- 2 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth or water can be used)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- 4 tablespoons whole milk
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnish
- Parsley, green onions or chives
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: In a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and just starting to turn a soft brown color.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed and drained rice to the skillet and stir continuously over medium heat. Toast the rice for 3-4 minutes, stirring often to ensure it browns evenly without burning.
- Add Liquids and Spices: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the rice. Stir in onion powder and granulated garlic until everything is well combined.
- Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low, loosely cover the skillet, and cook the rice for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and continue cooking until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with Butter, Cheese, and Milk: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, shredded Parmesan cheese, and whole milk until creamy and well blended.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or chives and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm immediately.
Notes
- Be attentive when toasting the rice; stir continually to avoid burning.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water.
- Adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese based on your preference for cheesiness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese substitutes.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Rice, creamy rice, garlic rice side dish, easy rice recipe, Parmesan cheese rice

