15 Irresistible Risotto Recipes: Creamy Classics and Creative Twists
These velvety rice dishes offer cozy comfort and inventive flavors for every occasion.
Risotto, a beloved staple of Italian cuisine, melds comforting creaminess with limitless versatility. Whether you favor the traditional flavors of mushroom risotto or crave inventive takes like curry-infused shrimp or veggie-packed primavera, there’s a risotto recipe to suit every palate. This guide brings together 15 easy and ultra-creamy recipes, plus tips, variations, and expert insights for mastering this classic dish.
What Is Risotto?
Risotto is a creamy rice dish traditionally made with Arborio rice, slowly cooked as broth is stirred in gradually. This unique method coaxes the natural starch out, giving risotto its signature velvety texture. The base consists of onion, garlic, butter, olive oil, and cheese—usually Parmesan or a blend of Italian hard cheeses.
Traditional and Creative Risotto Recipes
Pumpkin Risotto
Pumpkin puree lends autumnal sweetness and a luscious texture to this comforting bowl. It’s topped with bacon, parmesan, crispy sage, and roasted pumpkin seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Ideal for fall gatherings or impressing dinner guests.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Butternut squash is cooked with butter and a pinch of chili powder, mingling its rich flavor with the creamy risotto. This versatile side pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or even as a unique addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Arancini (Fried Risotto Balls)
Arancini are crispy, cheesy rice balls made from leftover risotto. They are breaded, then deep-fried or air-fried, resulting in golden little bites of joy. Served all over Italy, these are perfect for appetizers, parties, or using up extra risotto.
Risotto Primavera
This vibrant risotto highlights seasonal vegetables—classic choices include carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and yellow squash, all enhanced by tangy goat cheese. Swap in your favorite vegetables like red bell pepper, zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus for endless customization.
Lemon Basil Shrimp Risotto
For a zesty twist, this recipe combines white wine, garlic, onion, and lemon zest for a citrusy punch. Shrimp and fresh basil make it light, savory, and elegant—perfect for entertaining or a special weeknight meal.
Mushroom Risotto
A creamy, savory classic featuring mushrooms swiftly cooked for maximum flavor. Quick to make (under an hour), it’s an ideal introduction to using the risotto method. Top with parmesan or a trio of Italian cheeses for extra richness.
Pesto Risotto
Bright, herbaceous pesto elevates a simple risotto with its vibrant flavor and color, especially in spring. Use jarred pesto for convenience, or homemade for extra freshness. Shredded rotisserie chicken is often added for protein and heartiness.
Red Curry Risotto with Shrimp
Red curry paste, ginger, and coconut milk transform risotto into a globally inspired dish. The creamy texture blends beautifully with spicy Asian flavors, and shrimp adds delicate sweetness. It’s a fun fusion for adventurous palates.
Low Carb Cauliflower Risotto
This healthy alternative swaps Arborio rice for cauliflower rice, delivering all the creaminess with fewer carbs. Make your own by grating cauliflower or look for pre-grated options at the grocery store. Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
Risotto Variations: More Delicious Inspiration
Mushrooms and Asparagus Oven Risotto
For a hands-off risotto, Ree Drummond’s oven-baked version brings together cremini mushrooms, fresh asparagus, goat cheese, arugula, and lemon zest. Baked slowly in broth, it achieves deep flavor without constant stirring. Serve topped with red onion and basil for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Classic Cheese Risotto
This foundational risotto relies on a blend of Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago cheeses for full-bodied flavor. A touch of heavy cream makes it extra lush. The method is traditional—gradually ladling in broth, stirring constantly to build irresistible creaminess.
Seafood Risotto
Light and elegant, seafood variations (like shrimp, scallops, or crab) pair beautifully with lemon, white wine, and fresh herbs. The delicate balance of flavors makes it a favorite for special occasions or summer dinners.
Chicken and Vegetable Risotto
Add shredded rotisserie chicken, peas, carrots, and fresh spinach for protein-rich comfort. This variation can be made with leftover chicken or turkey, making it a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Risotto alla Milanese
Infused with saffron, this iconic northern Italian recipe boasts a golden hue and gentle earthy flavor. Traditionally served alongside osso buco (braised veal shanks), it’s a taste of Milan on your dinner table.
Essential Risotto Tips and Techniques
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano rice are best. Their high starch content creates the creamy texture risotto is famous for.
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Grate cheese, chop veggies, and measure broth before you start. Stirring risotto means you won’t want to break your rhythm while cooking.
- Step-by-Step Method: Sauté aromatics (onion, garlic) in butter and olive oil. Add rice, stir to coat, then add hot broth one cup at a time, stirring as each addition is absorbed. Don’t leave the stove—gentle, continuous stirring builds the texture.
- Finish with Cheese: Add grated cheese at the end, along with optional butter or cream. Let risotto rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Customize Flavors: Blend in roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, seafood, chicken, or your favorite cheeses.
- Make Ahead Tips: For recipes like arancini or oven risotto, cook risotto a day in advance, then reheat or fry as needed.
- Serving Suggestions: Risotto is excellent as a main or side dish. Try it with roasted meats, grilled seafood, or as the centerpiece of a vegetarian meal.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Risotto
| Component | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Rice | Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano | High starch, never rinse before cooking |
| Liquid | Chicken, vegetable, or seafood broth | Heat before use to maintain cooking temperature |
| Fat | Butter and olive oil | Start with both for depth of flavor |
| Aromatics | Onion, garlic, shallot | Sauté gently to avoid browning |
| Cheese | Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, goat cheese | Add at the end, fresh grated preferred |
| Add-ins | Vegetables, proteins, herbs | Fold in last for best color and texture |
Pro Chef’s Risotto: Ree Drummond’s Mushrooms and Asparagus Oven Risotto
This oven-baked approach by Ree Drummond puts a unique spin on risotto, making it both hands-off and deeply flavor-infused. Here’s a summary of her technique:
- Sauté asparagus in butter and olive oil; set aside.
- Cook mushrooms until browned, then add garlic, onions, and fresh herbs.
- Add Arborio rice, stirring, then pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and bake at 400°F until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender (about 35–45 minutes).
- Stir in goat cheese and most of the reserved asparagus; top with arugula, red onion, basil, and lemon zest.
FAQs: Risotto Questions Answered
Q: Do I have to use Arborio rice for risotto?
A: Arborio is preferred for its starchiness, but Carnaroli and Vialone Nano also work well for a creamy result.
Q: Can I make good risotto without cheese?
A: Yes. Risotto is creamy from rice starch, so cheese is not essential but always adds flavor. Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for vegan versions.
What others are reading
Q: Can I freeze leftover risotto?
A: Risotto can be frozen, but its texture may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh, or reimagined as arancini or risotto cakes for best flavor after freezing.
Q: Why is constant stirring important when making risotto?
A: Stirring releases the rice’s natural starch, producing the signature creamy texture and ensuring even cooking.
Q: What protein pairs well with risotto?
A: Risotto is excellent with roasted chicken, grilled fish, shrimp, scallops, sausage, and eggplant or mushrooms for vegetarian options.
Tips for Perfect Risotto Every Time
- Heat your broth before adding so the cooking temperature stays constant.
- Stir gently but persistently for creamy consistency.
- Taste as you cook to monitor doneness—rice should be tender but have a slight bite (al dente).
- Finish with cheese, butter, and fresh herbs for layered flavor.
Conclusion: Risotto for All Seasons
From the simple elegance of mushroom risotto to festive, flavor-packed Pumpkin and Butternut Squash risottos—or adventurous Asian-fusion and low-carb twists—mastering risotto opens up endless possibilities for creative, comforting meals. Whether you’re new to its creamy magic or looking to expand your repertoire, these recipes and techniques ensure risotto will always be a star at your table.
References
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
