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Creamy Pumpkin Risotto with Sautéed Mushrooms

This creamy pumpkin risotto is a comforting, autumn-inspired dish made with arborio rice, pumpkin purée, and Parmesan cheese, topped with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs. A rich, elegant vegetarian main or side perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 3 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
  • 1 tbsp butter (or plant-based butter)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for topping)
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or cremini)
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh sage or thyme

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted.
  4. Pour in white wine (if using) and stir until mostly absorbed.
  5. Begin adding warm broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each addition to absorb before adding the next.
  6. After about 15–18 minutes, stir in pumpkin purée, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking and stirring until the risotto is creamy and the rice is tender, about 5 more minutes.
  7. Stir in Parmesan and butter. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes.
  8. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Sauté sliced mushrooms with sage or thyme until golden and tender, about 5–7 minutes.
  9. Spoon risotto into bowls, top with sautéed mushrooms, and garnish with extra herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use homemade or low-sodium vegetable broth for better control of saltiness.
  • Add a splash of cream or extra Parmesan for even more richness.
  • Great served with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin risotto, vegetarian risotto, creamy risotto, autumn recipes, mushroom risotto