Quick and Creamy Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights.
• Minimal Ingredients: You probably already have most of these pantry staples.
• Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy rice is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side or stand-alone comfort bowl with your favorite veggies or protein.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Butter: Provides a rich, flavorful base for sautéing the garlic.
• Garlic: The real star here—use fresh garlic for the best flavor!
• Rice: I like long-grain white rice for this recipe, but jasmine or basmati works, too.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
• Heavy Cream: For that decadently creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for the best melt and flavor.
• Parsley: Optional, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh taste.

Pro Tip: Avoid pre-grated Parmesan—it doesn’t melt as smoothly and can affect the creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the butter and let it melt, then stir in the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the rice and stir it around for 30 seconds to coat it in the garlic butter goodness.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, stir once, and secure the Instant Pot lid. Make sure the valve is set to “sealing.”
4. Set to high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the timer is done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melty and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Top with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Rinse the Rice: Rinse your rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
• Make It Your Own: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a tangier twist, or add a handful of sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
• Avoid Overcooking: Stick to the cook time for perfectly tender rice—don’t skip the natural release!

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Veggie Lovers: Stir in steamed peas, roasted broccoli, or spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition.
• Protein Pairings: This rice makes a dreamy pairing with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a little heat.

FAQs

Can I use another type of rice?

Yes, but note the cooking time may vary. Brown rice, for example, requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

How do I store and reheat?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.

Can I freeze this dish?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing as the rice can lose its creamy texture when thawed.