A rich and velvety risotto made with earthy mushrooms, Arborio rice, and a splash of white wine, slowly stirred to creamy perfection. This comforting Italian classic is deeply flavorful, finished with fresh herbs and a touch of parmesan—perfect as a main course or elegant side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Mushroom Risotto is the epitome of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. It’s ideal for dinner parties or a cozy night in. The constant stirring may seem demanding, but the result is a luxuriously creamy, deeply satisfying dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying risotto for the first time, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and delicious.

• Rich, creamy texture with no heavy cream required
• Deep umami flavor from mushrooms and parmesan
• Customizable with herbs, proteins, or truffle oil
• Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for weeknights
• Naturally gluten-free

Ingredients

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

1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry white wine
5 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
2 cups mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button), sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Optional: 1 tbsp truffle oil for drizzling

Directions

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms, sautéing until the mushrooms are browned and tender, 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, coating each grain.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir until fully absorbed.
5. Begin adding warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until each ladle is absorbed before adding the next. Continue for 18–20 minutes until rice is creamy and al dente.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and finish with parsley (and truffle oil if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs or cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or pancetta for a heartier dish.
• Make it vegan: Use vegan butter, vegetable broth, and plant-based parmesan.
• Try different mushrooms: Porcini, oyster, or portobello mushrooms offer distinct flavors.
• Add greens: Stir in baby spinach or arugula at the end for added color and nutrients.
• Use herbs: Thyme, sage, or rosemary pair beautifully with the earthy mushroom profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring until creamy again.
Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the risotto or cause uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use long-grain rice instead of Arborio?

No, Arborio rice is essential for risotto due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture.

Do I have to stir constantly?

Frequent stirring is necessary to release the starch from the rice, but brief pauses are acceptable as long as the mixture doesn’t stick or burn.

Can I use red wine instead of white?

White wine is traditional and complements the mushrooms, but a dry red wine can add a deeper, bolder flavor.

Is risotto supposed to be runny?

Risotto should be creamy and slightly loose, not dry or clumpy. It should gently spread on the plate.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can prepare the mushrooms and broth ahead of time to reduce active cooking.

What type of broth is best?

Either vegetable or chicken broth works well. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level in the dish.

Can I use pre-shredded parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be al dente—tender with a slight bite—and the mixture creamy but not overly thick.

Can I freeze risotto?

Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture. Fresh or refrigerated risotto is best.

What should I serve with mushroom risotto?

It pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple grilled protein like chicken or fish.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a classic Italian dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, satisfying meal. With its deep flavors, smooth texture, and endless adaptability, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant occasions alike. Follow the method carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive.

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