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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the warm, inviting nature of a rice bake. The Savory Mushroom & Thyme Rice Bake is a perfect embodiment of this sentiment, bringing together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the aromatic essence of thyme in a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even as a meal prep option for a busy week, this recipe promises to please the palate while also nourishing the body.

Mushroom and Thyme Rice Bake

Discover the heartwarming Savory Mushroom & Thyme Rice Bake, a perfect comfort food dish that blends earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme with creamy Arborio rice. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to customize, it showcases the rich flavors of various mushrooms and the health benefits of thyme, resulting in a dish that's satisfying and nourishing. Get ready to create a cozy culinary masterpiece!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup Arborio rice

3 cups vegetable broth

2 cups mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

      Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and the fresh thyme. Sauté until the mushrooms are softened, about 7-8 minutes.

        Prepare the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice to the skillet. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat it with the oil and to absorb the flavors.

          Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice has absorbed some of the broth.

            Combine with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

              Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (or similar size) baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

                Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the rice mixture.

                  Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

                    Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm as a comforting main dish or side.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings