If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful side dish that transforms plain rice into something special, this Quick Garlic Parmesan Rice is exactly what you need. Fragrant garlic is sautéed in butter until golden, then toasted rice is simmered in a combination of chicken broth and milk until tender and creamy. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is stirred in at the end for a rich, nutty flavor that makes this rice absolutely irresistible. The whole dish comes together in just 20-25 minutes using one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a side that’s more exciting than plain rice but still incredibly easy to make.
This creamy, cheesy rice pairs beautifully with chicken, steak, fish, pork chops, or any main dish that needs a delicious accompaniment.
Complete Ingredient List (Serves 4-6)
This version is easy to scale up for larger dinners or meal prep.
For the Rice
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3-4 cloves)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach (optional)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to let the garlic burn or it will taste bitter.
Toast the Rice
Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pan and stir well to coat all the grains with the garlic butter. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted and smells nutty. Watch carefully and keep stirring to prevent burning.
Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, milk, salt, pepper, and onion powder if using. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this releases steam and can dry out the rice.
Add Cheese and Finish
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. If using spinach, add it now and stir until wilted. Mix gently until the cheese has melted and the rice is creamy.
Cover and let stand for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Rice
Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch—this helps create fluffy, individual grains instead of sticky rice. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from the refrigerated section, not the shelf-stable kind in the green can, for the best flavor and melting. Don’t let the garlic burn when sautéing—keep the heat at medium and watch it carefully. Stir the rice occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. For extra creaminess, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. Let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking so the cheese fully melts and the texture becomes perfectly creamy.
Variations and Customizations
Add fresh baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes for extra greens. Stir in frozen peas or corn for added color and sweetness. Use brown rice for a healthier option (cooking time will increase to 40-45 minutes). Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add sautéed mushrooms along with the garlic for extra umami flavor. Try different herbs like fresh basil, thyme, or oregano. For a richer version, use all cream instead of milk. Add lemon zest and juice at the end for a bright, fresh flavor.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)
This rice provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, protein and calcium from the Parmesan cheese and milk, and vitamins from the garlic and herbs. The butter adds richness and helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins. It’s a satisfying side dish that pairs well with lean proteins and vegetables for a balanced meal.
Why This Works So Well for TikTok and Pinterest
Quick Garlic Parmesan Rice is incredibly photogenic with its creamy, cheese-coated grains, flecks of fresh parsley, and golden butter sheen. The moment when the Parmesan is stirred in and creates that creamy consistency makes for satisfying video content, and the “perfect side dish” hook resonates with home cooks looking for easy, flavorful sides. For Pinterest, focus on close-up shots showing the fluffy, creamy rice with melted cheese visible, or styled shots served alongside a beautiful main dish like grilled chicken or steak. The 20-minute timeline and one-pot convenience make this recipe highly shareable.
Serve this delicious garlic Parmesan rice alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, pan-seared steak, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this quick, creamy rice has become such a favorite side dish that elevates any dinner from ordinary to special.
