Creamy Tomato Basil Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Basil Rice because it’s a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. Each bite is packed with rich flavors from tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a delightful harmony that transports me straight to Italy. The creaminess complements the earthy flavors beautifully, making it perfect for any occasion. This recipe has quickly become one of our family favorites, and I can’t wait to share it with you so you can enjoy it as much as we do!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:49:09.011Z

When I first tried making this creamy dish, I had my doubts about combining tomatoes with cream. To my surprise, the flavors melded together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any night of the week. I always use ripe tomatoes in this recipe for maximum flavor, and adding fresh basil at the end elevates the dish to a new level.

One of my favorite tricks is to let the rice absorb the flavors fully after cooking. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes off the heat makes a significant difference in texture and taste. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Umbrella of flavors from tomatoes and creamy cheese
Delightfully easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Fresh basil adds brightness and a delicious aroma

      

Choosing the Right Rice

For the best texture and flavor in your Creamy Tomato Basil Rice, I recommend using medium-grain rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli. These varieties have a higher starch content, which creates a creamy, luscious texture as they cook. If you prefer long-grain options, Basmati works but will yield a different consistency. Remember, rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too gummy.

If you're short on time, you can opt for pre-cooked or instant rice. Though these options reduce cooking time significantly, be mindful that they might lack the depth of flavor and creamy texture achieved by cooking raw rice slowly in broth. For the best results with quick options, ensure to adjust the liquid you add based on the cooking instructions provided on the package.

Creaminess Factor

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese is key to achieving a rich, creamy consistency. You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but keep in mind that this will slightly alter the texture. An alternative vegan option is to use full-fat coconut milk, which will provide creaminess and a subtle sweetness without the dairy.

When adding the cream, do so off the heat to avoid curdling. Stirring in the Parmesan cheese while the mixture is still warm allows it to melt evenly, infusing the rice with taste. For those who enjoy a bit more indulgence, I suggest adding a dollop of ricotta cheese right before serving for an extra creamy finish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Rice.

Ingredients

1 cup rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to make your Creamy Tomato Basil Rice.

Prepare the Rice

In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the oil.

Cook with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Add Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish with Basil

Gently fold in the fresh basil and let it sit covered for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors combine.

Serve warm and enjoy the wonderful flavors of Creamy Tomato Basil Rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Meal Prep

Creamy Tomato Basil Rice keeps well in the refrigerator, so consider making a larger batch for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent it from drying out and stir occasionally on low heat until warmed through. This method helps maintain the dish's creamy texture.

Alternatively, if you want to freeze leftovers, place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to bring back the original consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile and can serve as a main course or a side. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal. For added protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp, which complement the creamy tomato flavor beautifully.

If you want to elevate the presentation, garnish the finished dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze can also enhance the flavor profile. Don't hesitate to experiment with toppings like crunchy pine nuts or seeds for added texture!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.

→ What other herbs can I use instead of basil?

You can try parsley or oregano as alternatives, but basil truly enhances the flavor of this dish.