Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Risotto is a luxurious Italian dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and elegant meal. Slow-cooked with Arborio rice, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, this risotto offers deep umami flavor and a velvety texture that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It makes a perfect vegetarian main or an impressive side dish for a dinner gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy texture without the need for heavy cream
• Earthy mushrooms add deep, savory flavor
• Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients
• Elegant enough for guests, yet easy enough for weeknights
• Naturally vegetarian with a simple broth substitution

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
5 cups warm vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the mushrooms are softened and lightly browned.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1–2 minutes to toast the grains and coat them with oil and butter.
5. Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook until mostly absorbed, stirring constantly.
6. Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to absorb before adding the next.
7. Continue this process for about 18–20 minutes, until the rice is al dente and the risotto is creamy and thickened.
8. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until melted and fully incorporated.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as a side.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace butter with olive oil, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and opt for a vegan broth.
• Add Greens: Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Mushroom Medley: Use a combination of shiitake, oyster, and wild mushrooms for deeper flavor.
• Truffle Twist: Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated touch.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in some Fontina or Gruyère for an extra-rich risotto.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. It can also be microwaved in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use another type of rice?

Arborio rice is ideal for risotto because of its high starch content. Other short-grain rice like Carnaroli can be used, but avoid long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine.

What can I use instead of white wine?

You can substitute white wine with an equal amount of extra broth, or a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for acidity.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be al dente (tender with a slight bite), and the texture should be creamy but not runny or dry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Risotto is best served immediately, but you can prepare it in advance and reheat with extra broth for a fresh texture.

Is risotto gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided all packaged ingredients like broth are labeled gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or pan-seared scallops pair beautifully with mushroom risotto.

Why is constant stirring important?

Stirring releases the starch from the rice, which creates the creamy consistency risotto is known for.

Can I freeze risotto?

Risotto doesn’t freeze well due to its texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini and button mushrooms are classic, but feel free to use any variety available—shiitake, portobello, or chanterelles are great options.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother texture, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Risotto is a timeless Italian comfort dish that turns a few simple ingredients into a luxurious and deeply flavorful meal. With its velvety texture, savory mushroom base, and cheesy finish, this risotto makes a beautiful side or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening at home or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers warmth, elegance, and irresistible flavor in every bite.

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