Garlic Butter Rice Recipe Cooked Two Ways

My Garlic Butter Rice recipe is full of buttery garlic flavor and comes out perfect every time. I use my Crock Pot as the slow cooker is a wonderful way to cook buttery white rice. However, if you are pushed for time I include instructions on how to cook this rice dish on the stove top too.

This flavorful rice dish is a delightful change and Garlic Butter Rice goes with almost everything, especially yummy with my slow cooker ppicy pinto beans with a side of mini skillet cornbread.

You might also like to try my Cilantro Lime Rice or for something sweet try this Rice Pudding recipe.

I love garlic rice, it’s packed with far more flavor than plain steamed rice and I show you how to make garlic rice in a few simple steps using your slow cooker.

Looking for more small slow cooker recipes? Read 14 Easy Recipes to Make in Your Small Slow Cooker.

Why this garlic butter rice recipe works

• It takes only 5 minutes hands on prep, then it’s over to the slow cooker to do all the hard work.
• This recipe provides 1 cup of cooked rice, however the recipe can be doubled or trebled if you are feeding a larger group of people.
• Only 5 simple ingredients.

✔ Main Ingredients Notes

Full ingredient list and instructions are located in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Garlic Paste – I use garlic paste, but fresh minced garlic can also be used. If using fresh garlic melt the butter in a skillet and saute the garlic first before adding to the slow cooker. I think the garlic paste is great for using in a slow cooker recipes. My go to brand it Gourmet Garden Chunky Garlic Paste.
• Butter – I don’t add any extra salt to this recipe because I use salted butter and the chicken broth also contains sodium. If using unsalted butter add about 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt to the recipe.
• Rice – I use long grain white rice.
• Broth – I like to add chicken broth, but vegetable broth or plain water can be substituted.
• Dried Parsley – Dried Italian parsley is my favorite to use. If you use a fresh parsley add it toward the end of the cooking time. Dried Cilantro is a great substitute.

✎ How to make garlic butter rice

How to cook garlic butter rice on stove top

I often rinse rice when cooking on the stove top as this removes excess starch. Place the rice in a mesh strainer and run cool water over the rice until it runs clear.

1. Start by melted the butter in a small heavy saucepan over medium heat.  I love using my small French oven for making rice on the stove top.
2. Add garlic and stir until just fragrant, it only takes a few seconds.
3. Add the uncooked rice into the saucepan and stir to coat the rice with the butter.  Add chicken or vegetable broth.  You can use water but broth really gives a richer flavor.
4. Stir well to mix and bring to a boil, uncovered.
5. Once boiling reduce heat to low and cover.  Cook until all the liquid has been absorbed by the rice. This usually takes less than 20 minutes.
6. Remove pot from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes before uncovering.
7. Fluff rice with a fork and serve

Sydney’s Recipe Notes

• The recipe can be doubled. To make larger portions use 2 parts liquid to 1 part rice. Adjust garlic for your taste preference.
• Don’t be tempted to open the lid of the slow cooker or stir the rice while it is cooking. Just leave it to bubble away gently and absorb all the broth.
• For a burst of fresh herb flavor, chop through some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

You can use this delicious recipe instead of plain rice with just about anything. I’ll add some to burritos, serve with my slow cooker Honey Garlic Chicken or with my Apricot Chicken.

Top the rice with canned tuna, sliced avocado, and tomato for a light lunch.

This easy garlic rice recipe also takes great on it’s own or topped with grated Parmesan cheese. I sometimes enjoy it by itself for a quick snack.

Helpful Tools For This Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links that won’t change your price but will I may be paid a small commission which helps fund this blog.

• Slow Cooker – I use a Crock Pot but the same recipe can be used with any brand of slow cooker.
• Saucepan/Pot – If making rice on the stove top use a small saucepan or pot.

How to Store Leftover Rice

In the refrigerator: Allow the rice to cool completely and store in an airtight container, in the refrigerator, overnight.

In the freezer: If you plan on keeping the rice longer than 1 day, I suggest freezing the rice. Pat the rice into serving sized small discs and wrap tightly in saran wrap. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave.