Parmesan Garlic Rice

Introduction

Parmesan Garlic Rice is an effortlessly comforting side dish that elevates any meal with its creamy texture, garlicky aroma, and nutty cheese flavor. Quick enough for weeknights but impressive for gatherings, it’s the kind of dish that wins over everyone at the table.

This recipe makes your typical rice feel luxurious but requires just a handful of pantry staples. Its satisfying flavor pairs well with so many mains—from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables—making it a crowd-pleasing staple you’ll reach for any time you want a side that’s both simple and memorable.

Why Parmesan Garlic Rice Deserves a Place at Your Table

The secret to this rice’s appeal is in its irresistible combination of savory, aromatic garlic and fresh, salty Parmesan cheese. As the rice simmers, the garlic infuses every grain with rich flavor, while the cheese melts in for a creamy finish that’s comforting and satisfying. The real magic is its flexibility—serve it with just about anything, or pile on your favorite veggies or proteins for a one-bowl meal.

Preparation is both straightforward and mess-free, making it suitable even for beginner cooks. And with only one pan required, cleanup is a breeze, too.

Ingredient Prep: Making it Easy and Efficient

A little prep goes a long way to create a perfect Parmesan Garlic Rice. Start by mincing fresh garlic cloves for a punchy aromatic base. If you’d like to add fresh vegetables such as bell pepper or onion, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for uniform, quick dicing.

Grate your Parmesan cheese just before adding—it melts best this way and gives richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
Measuring out your rice using the Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display ensures you get perfect texture every time—no guesswork.

Perfecting Garlic Rice in the Skillet

A quality skillet is key to sautéing garlic evenly and simmering rice to creamy perfection. Opt for something reliable, like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch, to prevent sticking and burning.

Start by gently sautéing your minced garlic until fragrant. Add rice and toast briefly—this step draws out deep, toasty flavors. When you pour in your broth, bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let the rice cook undisturbed, absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Serving Suggestions: Make it a Complete Meal

When your Parmesan Garlic Rice is fluffy and tender, fold in the Parmesan and fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives, if you like). Store leftovers in airtight containers like Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers—a great way to keep rice fresh and enjoy delicious sides throughout the week.

For a meal on the go, pack it into a Bentgo Salad Container and add grilled protein or veggies for a wholesome lunch.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This Parmesan Garlic Rice recipe serves 4 and delivers around 250 calories per serving, mostly from the rice and Parmesan. Using low-sodium broth and keeping cheese portions moderate helps balance richness for an everyday side you can enjoy guilt-free.

Parmesan Garlic Rice: Flavorful Simplicity (Recap)

Loaded with aromatic garlic and finished with melty Parmesan, this rice is a quick, creamy side with a lot of versatility. Serve with anything—or savor it on its own. Its texture and flavor are sure to make it a regular favorite in your home.

Instructions

1. Heat the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. When hot, add butter or oil and swirl to coat.
2. Add minced garlic (and diced onion or bell pepper, if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant—do not let garlic burn.
3. Add the rice and toast, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and aromatic.
4. Pour in the broth, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook undisturbed for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Turn off heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff rice with a fork and stir in freshly grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for up to 4 days.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Enjoy the savory simplicity and versatile appeal of Parmesan Garlic Rice at your next meal—comforting, crowd-pleasing, and always delicious!