Creamy Italian Risotto (Printer-friendly)

A rich and creamy Italian rice dish with Parmesan, white wine, and a silky texture perfect for any meal.

# What You Need:

→ Rice & Base

01 - 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
02 - 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Aromatics

05 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids

07 - ½ cup dry white wine

→ Cheeses & Finish

08 - ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for finishing)
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish (optional)

11 - Chopped fresh parsley
12 - Extra Parmesan

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat and keep warm.
02 - In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons butter with olive oil over medium heat.
03 - Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes; then add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Incorporate Arborio rice and stir constantly until grains are lightly toasted and edges turn translucent, approximately 2 minutes.
05 - Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until mostly absorbed.
06 - Add warm broth incrementally, half a cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing liquid absorption before adding more; continue until rice is al dente and creamy, about 18 to 20 minutes.
07 - Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted and creamy; season with salt and pepper to taste.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It transforms simple pantry staples into something that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
  • The rhythm of stirring becomes unexpectedly meditative, a rare moment of calm in a busy day.
  • Every bite is creamy and rich without feeling heavy, and it impresses guests without stressing you out.
02 -
  • Don't walk away from the stove, the rice needs almost constant stirring to release its starch and stay creamy instead of clumpy.
  • If you run out of broth before the rice is done, just add hot water a little at a time until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
  • Risotto waits for no one, so have your table set and your guests ready before you stir in the final butter and cheese.
03 -
  • Use a wide, shallow pan instead of a tall pot so the rice cooks evenly and you can see what's happening at a glance.
  • Keep a glass of wine nearby, not just for the recipe but for yourself, it makes the stirring feel less like work and more like an occasion.
  • If you want extra luxury, stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone or a splash of heavy cream along with the Parmesan for an even silkier finish.

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