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Delicious creamy spinach rice dish served in a bowl, perfect for comfort cooking.

Creamy Spinach Rice

A forgiving, luxurious dish that's creamy and packed with flavor, perfect as a comforting side or a main meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Rice Base
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Choose this for fluffy, separate grains.
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth Use broth instead of water.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter Adds richness.
Creamy Spinach Mix
  • 4 cups fresh spinach Use baby spinach for tenderness.
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half Key for silky texture.
  • 2 cloves garlic Mince finely.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a savory punch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pinch nutmeg Brightens the creaminess.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes For a gentle kick.

Method
 

Prepare the Rice
  1. Toast the rice in olive oil or butter until it smells like warm popcorn.
  2. Add broth, bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes without stirring.
Make the Creamy Spinach Mix
  1. Sauté garlic until lightly browned.
  2. Add spinach by the handful and stir until wilted.
  3. Stir in cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes until combined.
  4. Fold the creamy spinach mix into the rice and season to taste. Adjust thickness with broth if needed.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess. For more spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.