Easy Pea and Bacon Risotto: A Creamy Delight You’ll Love

Name: Easy Pea and Bacon Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups warm chicken broth; ½ cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp butter

Published: January 31, 2026

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy pea and bacon risotto comes together quickly, making meal prep a breeze
It’s bursting with flavor, thanks to the rich combination of peas and bacon
Visually stunning with its vibrant green color, it adds elegance to any table setting
Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or serve as a main dish on its own

I’ve served this dish at gatherings where it stole the spotlight—everyone raving about how delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

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

Arborio Rice: The star of our show! Its high starch content makes for that creamy texture we crave in risotto.
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for added flavor and crispy texture; it’s worth every calorie!
Fresh Peas: Opt for sweet green peas; they add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
Onion: A finely chopped onion brings sweetness as it caramelizes—don’t skip this step!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; you can never go wrong with garlic in any recipe.
Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought works here; just make sure it’s warm when you add it to your risotto.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan is key for that creamy finish—don’t even think about using pre-grated cheese!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors beautifully; use it generously.
Butter: A little butter at the end gives richness—because life is too short not to enjoy butter!

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

Recipe preparation for easy pea and bacon risotto

How to Make easy pea and bacon risotto

Sautéing the Bacon and Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, releasing those oh-so-delicious aromas into your kitchen.

Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in the finely chopped onion, sautéing until translucent and softens—this usually takes about five minutes. Stir in minced garlic for an aromatic kick.

Add Arborio Rice: Pour in your Arborio rice, stirring frequently for about two minutes until it becomes slightly translucent. This step helps release starches essential for creaminess.

Gradually Incorporate Broth: Begin adding warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed. Repeat this until rice is al dente—about 18-20 minutes total.

Mix in Peas and Parmesan : When rice reaches desired consistency, stir in fresh peas and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Feel free to add more cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!

Finish with Butter : Remove from heat and stir in a pat of butter for extra richness before serving hot. Garnish with more Parmesan if you dare!

And just like that, you’ve created an easy pea and bacon risotto that will impress everyone! Remember—the key is patience while stirring; good things take time! Enjoy this delightful dish that warms not just your belly but also your heart!

You Must Know

This easy pea and bacon risotto is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile
The creamy texture and smoky flavor create a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion
Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the bacon until crispy, then add onions and garlic. Gradually stir in arborio rice, adding broth slowly to achieve that creamy consistency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the peas for asparagus or spinach, and try different cheeses like parmesan or goat cheese for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover risotto 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.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use warm broth when adding to risotto; this helps maintain the cooking temperature and adds creaminess
Stir frequently but don’t overdo it; gentle stirring allows the rice to release starch without becoming mushy
Finish with butter for that luxurious touch!

Creating this easy pea and bacon risotto took me back to my college days when dinner was often a race against time. I remember whipping it up for friends who were always amazed at how something so simple could taste so indulgent.

FAQ

Can I use frozen peas for easy pea and bacon risotto?

Absolutely! Frozen peas work wonderfully and save you prep time.

What can I substitute for arborio rice?

You can use Carnaroli or even sushi rice if needed, though textures may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this risotto vegetarian?

Yes! Just replace bacon with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.