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Weeknight • Sides

Creamy Parmesan Risotto

Indulge in a classic, incredibly creamy risotto that's surprisingly simple to master at home.

Prep
5 min
Cook
30 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Creamy Parmesan Risotto

Risotto might sound fancy, but it's truly a comforting, approachable dish that's all about patience and a little stirring. This Creamy Parmesan Risotto is pure gold – rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying. Once you learn the technique, you'll be making it again and again!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups Arborio rice
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) or extra broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a medium saucepan, heat broth over medium heat until simmering. Keep it warm throughout the cooking process.

  2. Step 2

    In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the edges of the grains are translucent.

  4. Step 4

    Pour in the white wine (or extra broth) and stir until it's completely absorbed by the rice.

  5. Step 5

    Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful (about 1/2 cup) at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be mostly absorbed by the rice before adding the next.

  6. Step 6

    Continue this process for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is al dente (tender but with a slight bite in the center) and the risotto is creamy. You may not use all the broth.

  7. Step 7

    Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and unsalted butter until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Step 8

    Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips

  • The key to creamy risotto is to add broth gradually and stir frequently.
  • Don't rinse the Arborio rice, as the starch is essential for creaminess.
  • For a vegetarian option, ensure you use vegetable broth.

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