Creamy Parmesan Risotto Recipe – A Cozy Comfort Dish

Parmesan Risotto is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with its creamy texture and rich flavor wrapping around you. The aroma of sautéed onions mingling with garlic and the nutty scent of parmesan cheese wafting through your kitchen will make your taste buds dance in anticipation.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where she would teach me the art of risotto-making. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a romantic dinner, promising to impress those lucky enough to share it with you.

I still remember the first time I made Parmesan Risotto; my friends declared me a culinary genius for impressively stirring and tasting until perfection was achieved.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Arborio Rice: This short-grain rice has high starch content, essential for that creamy risotto texture.

• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Use homemade or low-sodium options for a balanced flavor.

• Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan; it melts beautifully and adds depth.

• Onion: A finely chopped onion enhances sweetness; shallots can be used for an even milder taste.

• Garlic: One or two cloves add aromatic delight; sauté until fragrant but not browned.

• White Wine: Use a dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc to add acidity and complexity.

• Butter: A couple of tablespoons create that luscious finish; use unsalted for better control over seasoning.

• Olive Oil: This helps with sautéing the aromatics while adding a fruity note.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; add them judiciously throughout cooking for balance.

• Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds color when garnished.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Parmesan Risotto

Start by heating your broth in a saucepan over low heat. Keeping it warm ensures smooth cooking as you add it gradually.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent while releasing their sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can ruin everything.

Add Arborio Rice: Stir in 1 cup of Arborio rice into the skillet and toast it lightly for about 2 minutes until each grain is coated with oil.

Pour in White Wine: Add ½ cup of dry white wine and let it simmer until absorbed by the rice. This step infuses amazing flavors—trust me!

Add Broth Gradually: Begin ladling warm broth into the rice one cup at a time. Stir frequently until each addition is absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20 minutes total.

Finish with Cheese and Butter: Once the rice is al dente, remove from heat and stir in fresh grated Parmesan cheese along with butter for creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Now you have an incredible bowl of Parmesan Risotto that’s ready to be devoured! Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if using. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing finely chopped onions in butter until translucent. Gradually add Arborio rice, then pour in warm broth ladle by ladle while stirring frequently. This method ensures even cooking and a creamy result.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your risotto! You can add vegetables like peas or mushrooms, throw in some cooked chicken or shrimp, or swap out Parmesan for goat cheese for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Sometimes, I think my risotto is just like my love life: requires constant attention and stirring, but when it comes together, it’s absolutely divine!

FAQ

What type of rice is best for Parmesan risotto?

Arborio rice is ideal due to its high starch content for creaminess.

Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh; reheat with extra broth.

How can I make my risotto creamier?

Stirring continuously releases starches; adding butter and cheese at the end enhances creaminess.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Parmesan Risotto

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Parmesan Risotto, a creamy Italian classic that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish combines Arborio rice with rich Parmesan cheese, aromatic garlic, and sweet onions, creating a velvety texture that warms the soul. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, this risotto promises to impress with its delightful flavor and gourmet appeal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a saucepan over low heat to keep it warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.
4. Stir in Arborio rice and toast for about 2 minutes until coated.
5. Pour in white wine and let it simmer until absorbed by the rice.
6. Gradually add warm broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently until each addition is absorbed—this should take about 20 minutes.
7. Once the rice is al dente, remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until creamy. Season as desired.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if using.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg