Name: Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 1/2 cups long grain rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan cheese); 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·5 from 27 reviews

If you’re looking for a side dish that will completely steal the show, Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice is the answer. This creamy, aromatic rice is rich with golden garlic, a touch of fresh lemon, and generous heaps of nutty parmesan. Each forkful glistens with buttery goodness and bursts with flavor, making it an irresistible addition to any meal—yet it’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Trust me: after just one bite, Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice will become your go-to favorite for everything from family dinners to special occasions.

Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice is in its simplicity. Every ingredient is there for a reason, whether it’s building richness, adding a pop of brightness, or creating those magical, crave-worthy textures. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish shine:

Butter: This is the heart of the dish, adding a luscious creaminess and that classic, comforting flavor.
Garlic: Chopped fresh garlic infuses the rice with an irresistible aroma and depth you can’t get from powders.
Long Grain Rice: It cooks up fluffy and tender, soaking up all the delicious flavors for perfect texture.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Swapping water for broth gives every grain of rice savory body and extra flavor. Use your favorite!
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh juice brightens up the richness and adds a little zing.
Lemon Zest: The secret spark—zest gives the rice fresh, citrusy fragrance and vibrance.
Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan Cheese): Freshly grated parmesan melts into the rice, creating creamy, savory ribbons throughout.
Parsley (Optional): Chopped parsley offers a fresh, herbal finish and a pop of color.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to taste and season before serving for that perfect balance.

How to Make Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Start by melting all that glorious butter in a large pan over medium heat. As soon as the butter is shimmering, add the chopped garlic and stir constantly for about a minute. Let it get just fragrant and golden—be careful not to let it brown, as you want that sweet, mellow garlic flavor to shine, not turn bitter.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Pour in the long grain rice and stir well so every grain gets coated in the buttery, garlicky goodness. Let it toast for one minute, stirring often. This not only builds flavor, it helps the rice stay fluffy and separate during cooking.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Then, immediately lower the heat, cover, and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes. Don’t peek! You want the steam to work its magic so the Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice comes out perfectly tender and infused with flavor.

Step 4: Add Lemon, Parmesan, and Parsley

Once the rice has absorbed all the liquid, turn off the heat and mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, fluffy grated parmesan, and fresh parsley (if using). Stir everything together and watch as the cheese melts, turning the rice extra creamy and irresistible.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Give the final dish a taste and sprinkle in salt and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust to your liking, fluff with a fork, and serve up Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice while it’s still piping hot and meltingly delicious!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice

Garnishes

A light scattering of extra parmesan and finely chopped parsley makes Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice look as good as it tastes—vivid green and snowy white with that classic Italian flair. For even more flavor, add a touch of lemon zest or a drizzle of melted butter just before serving.

Side Dishes

This rice is the ultimate companion to almost anything—pair it with roasted chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or grilled vegetables. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own for a simple supper, but complimentary enough to work alongside spicy, saucy, or smoky main courses, too.

Creative Ways to Present

Get a little fancy by serving Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice in individual ramekins, or top it with crispy chicken cutlets or sautéed mushrooms. You can also stir in baby spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition, or use the rice as the base for stuffed bell peppers. It transforms into a stunning centerpiece every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 4 days—just remember to keep it covered so it doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for busy nights, Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice freezes quite well. Spread cooled rice into a freezer bag or container, squeeze out excess air, and label it. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your rice back to its creamy, gooey glory, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water and a small knob of butter to revive its moisture, then stir often until piping hot. Top with fresh parmesan for a little extra decadence!

FAQs

Can I use instant rice or brown rice instead?

You can, but the texture will be a bit different. Instant rice works in a pinch but may be softer, while brown rice needs extra liquid and a longer cook time. Just watch carefully, and adjust as needed!

What kind of parmesan should I use?

Always reach for real Parmigiano Reggiano or freshly grated parmesan for Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice. Pre-grated can clump and isn’t nearly as flavorful. Fresh cheese melts better and delivers that classic nutty, salty punch.

How do I make this dairy-free or vegan?

Swap butter for a good-quality plant-based substitute, and use your favorite vegan parmesan. Choose vegetable broth to keep it meatless—it’s still lovely and creamy!

Can I add vegetables or protein?

Absolutely! Stir in fresh spinach at the end or add in cooked peas, mushrooms, or diced chicken or shrimp on top to make Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice a meal all on its own. It’s endlessly customizable.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Kids adore the creamy, buttery flavor of this rice, and you can adjust the garlic and lemon to their tastes. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in a little extra nutrition, too, especially with some added greens.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely think you’ll fall in love with Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice after just one taste—it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a legend in your kitchen. It’s simple enough for everyday meals, yet special enough to impress dinner guests. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it earns a regular spot on your table!

Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need