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Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Recipe

3.8 (28 ratings)
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By Ella
Prep Time 15 min
Cook Time 50 min
Calories 365 kcal
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

Servings

Directions / Instructions

Why You'll Love This Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Recipe

This Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Recipe is the perfect combination of hearty grains, savory mushrooms, and a luxurious cream sauce. The nutty texture of wild rice pairs beautifully with earthy mushrooms, while garlic, herbs, and Parmesan create layers of comforting flavor.

Whether you're serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, turkey, or enjoying it as a vegetarian entrée, this recipe is elegant enough for holiday dinners yet simple enough for busy weeknights. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Rice

  • 1 cup wild rice blend, rinsed
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the Wild Rice

In a saucepan, combine the wild rice, broth, and butter. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40 to 45 minutes or until the rice is tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Meanwhile, heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned. Stir in the onion and cook until softened, then add the garlic, thyme, rosemary, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute while stirring. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Add the Cheese

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

5. Combine Everything

Add the cooked wild rice to the skillet and gently stir until every grain is coated in the creamy mushroom sauce.

6. Garnish

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Expert Tips

Brown the mushrooms well before adding the cream to develop deep, savory flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of broth or milk to loosen it. Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs may be substituted if needed.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Freeze for up to 2 months, although the sauce may require additional stirring after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, pork chops, grilled steak, baked salmon, or holiday ham. It also pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, asparagus, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Add shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein, stir in baby spinach or kale for additional greens, substitute Gruyère or Fontina cheese for Parmesan, or finish with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch. For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Prepare it up to two days ahead, refrigerate, and gently reheat with a splash of broth or cream before serving.
Absolutely. Simply use vegetable broth and vegetarian Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cremini and button mushrooms are excellent choices, but shiitake, oyster, or baby bella mushrooms add even more flavor.
Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding a little cream if necessary.
Yes. Brown rice works well, although it provides a softer texture and a milder flavor than wild rice.
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