Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 4 oz cream cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful blend of flavors that truly brighten my day. As I prepare this dish, I can’t help but appreciate how the creamy texture complements the rice, making each bite feel indulgent yet wholesome. It's become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekends, and I often find myself experimenting with different spices to elevate the taste even further.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:16:01.629Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so delicious. I remember serving it to friends, and everyone was surprised that it was made in just 30 minutes. The creamy element comes from a blend of cream cheese and Parmesan, which I like to add towards the end for that perfect silkiness. On top of that, the freshness of the spinach and tomatoes adds a pop of color and nutrition.

One detailed tip I’ve learned is to sauté the spinach just until wilted; this preserves its vibrant green color and nutrition. It’s a great way to customize this dish too; sometimes, I’ll toss in a handful of mushrooms or bell peppers for some extra flavor and texture. This recipe has made its way into my weekly meal rotation, and I can’t recommend it enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts and delights
Bright flavors from fresh spinach and tomatoes
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights

      

Ingredient Insights

The combination of fresh spinach and creamy cheeses in this dish is not just about flavor; it also brings a wealth of nutrients. Spinach is loaded with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse ingredient. The cream cheese and Parmesan not only add richness but also help bind the flavors together, creating that delightful creamy texture that coats each grain of rice beautifully. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a luxuriously rich sauce or a light version if you're looking to cut calories.

When selecting your tomatoes, opt for whole canned tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture. Diced tomatoes give a more uniform sauce. Both serve well in this dish, but using whole tomatoes allows you to crush them slightly as you cook, enhancing the sauce’s depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or basil can elevate this dish by introducing a hint of warmth and additional flavor complexity.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the rice in vegetable broth rather than water not only infuses it with flavor, but it also enhances the overall taste of the dish. Be sure to bring the broth to a full boil before reducing the heat. Keep the lid on tight to trap steam; this ensures the rice cooks evenly without drying out. If you're using brown rice instead of white, remember to increase the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes, as it requires more liquid and time to soften.

When sautéing the garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Cooking it just until fragrant (about 30 seconds) allows the natural oils to release without bitterness. If you do accidentally overcook it, the flavor can turn acrid, harming the dish. Always have your spinach prepped and ready to go, as you'll want to add it right after the garlic becomes aromatic to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
4 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped spinach and drained tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the spinach wilts down.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low; add cream cheese and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and combine, creating a creamy sauce.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creamy rice!

Your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. This dish is also excellent when topped with toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts for some crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can cook the rice and creamy sauce ahead of time, allowing you to refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. The rice will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge, while the sauce is best consumed within 3 days. Simply reheat together over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Adding a splash of vegetable broth while reheating can help restore the creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. The rice can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the sauce can last for about 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat gently on the stove. You might need to add a little additional cream cheese or broth to achieve that original creamy texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This dish is highly versatile! Swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different nutrient profile and flavor. If you want to add protein, consider tossing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, which can turn this side dish into a hearty meal. Additionally, some finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini can add even more vegetables and texture to the mix.

For serving, I love topping my Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice with freshly grated Parmesan, crushed nuts for a bit of crunch, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving adds a lovely finishing touch. Pair it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, or you can serve it as a main dish with a side salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.