Quick Garlic Butter Rice Recipe
Introduction
Quick Garlic Butter Rice is a flavorful and easy side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Made in the Instant Pot, it combines fragrant garlic, rich butter, and savory Parmesan for a comforting, tender rice dish.

Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 1/3 cup rice (see notes for options)
- 2 cups broth (use your favorite)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp dried parsley
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Set the Instant Pot to “saute” and melt the butter, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once melted, turn the Instant Pot off or set it to “keep warm”.
- Step 2: Add the rice, broth, minced garlic, and dried parsley to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Step 3: Lock the lid into place and set the steam release handle to “Sealing”. Press Manual, then High Pressure, and set the timer for 6 minutes. It will take 2-4 minutes for the Instant Pot to reach pressure.
- Step 4: When the cooking time finishes, carefully flip the vent to “Venting” to perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Step 5: Open the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
- Substitute white rice with jasmine or basmati for a different aroma and texture.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil after cooking for a fresh finish.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top for added crunch.
Storage
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use jasmine, basmati, or long-grain white rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio if needed, as different rice types absorb liquid differently.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can prepare it on the stovetop by sautéing the garlic in butter, then adding rice and broth. Simmer covered on low heat until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
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Quick Garlic Butter Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful garlic butter rice recipe cooked effortlessly in an Instant Pot. This side dish combines buttery richness, aromatic garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously creamy and savory rice perfect to accompany any meal.
Ingredients
Rice and Broth
- 1 1/3 cup rice (white long grain or basmati recommended)
- 2 cups broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef broth preferred)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp dried parsley
Toppings
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Saute the Butter: Set the Instant Pot to the ‘Saute’ function and melt the butter. This takes about 1-2 minutes. Once the butter is melted and fragrant, turn the Instant Pot off or set it to ‘Keep Warm’ to pause cooking.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Add the rice, broth, minced garlic, and dried parsley to the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Pressure Cook: Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set the steam release valve to the ‘Sealing’ position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function, set to High Pressure, and cook for 6 minutes. It will take approximately 2-4 minutes for the pot to reach pressure before the countdown starts.
- Release Pressure: When the cooking time ends, carefully flip the steam release valve to ‘Venting’ to perform a quick pressure release. Wait until the pressure is fully released before opening the lid.
- Finish with Parmesan: Open the lid carefully, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir thoroughly until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the rice. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use long grain white rice or basmati for best texture; brown rice requires longer cooking time.
- Broth choice can affect flavor intensity—chicken broth offers a richer taste, vegetable broth works well for vegetarians.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and Parmesan with vegan alternatives or olive oil and nutritional yeast.
- Gently fluff the rice before serving to avoid mushiness.
- If the rice is not fully cooked after pressure release, you can cook it on ‘Saute’ for an additional 2-3 minutes while stirring.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: garlic butter rice, instant pot rice, quick rice recipe, easy side dish, Parmesan rice

