Name: The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 cups bone broth (chicken broth or stock); 2 cups water; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1/2 ounce dried porcini mushrooms (rinsed in strainer); 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 2 medium onions (chopped fine, about 2 cups); 10 ounces cremini mushrooms (finely chopped); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice; 3/4 cup dry white wine (or dry vermouth); 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley; Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a risotto that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you are about to fall in love with The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe. This dish masterfully combines earthy mushrooms, creamy Arborio rice, and a flavorful broth that simmers slowly into a rich, velvety texture. Every spoonful feels indulgent yet comforting, making it the perfect meal to share with friends or to enjoy as a well-deserved treat after a long day. Whether you are a risotto novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe brings restaurant-quality magic right to your own kitchen without any fuss.

A deep white bowl holds a rich serving of mushroom risotto with a creamy, light brown base of rice mixed with small pieces of mushrooms throughout. On top, there is one layer of halved cooked mushrooms arranged in a semi-circle, dark brown with a slightly glossy texture, sprinkled with small bits of green herbs and thin shavings of light-colored cheese. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth with two forks on the left, a glass of white wine slightly blurred in the bottom left, a small white bowl with green herbs in the bottom right, and a smaller bowl with shredded cheese and a piece of cheese rind at the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. The beauty of The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe is in how these everyday pantry staples come together to form something truly extraordinary.

6 cups bone broth (chicken broth or stock): The savory liquid base that infuses the risotto with deep flavor and richness.
2 cups water: Used to adjust the broth’s intensity and ensure the rice cooks evenly.
2 teaspoons soy sauce: Adds a subtle umami boost that complements the mushrooms brilliantly.
1/2-ounce dried porcini mushrooms (rinsed in strainer): Provides an intense earthy flavor and wonderful texture after rehydration.
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into creaminess, enriching the dish with indulgent silkiness.
2 Tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables evenly and adds a fruity note.
2 medium onions (chopped fine, about 2 cups): Offer a natural sweetness and aromatic foundation.
10 ounces cremini mushrooms (finely chopped): Give the risotto a meaty texture and more mushroom dimension.
2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with a gentle kick and lifts the overall aroma.
1 1/2 cups Arborio rice: The star ingredient, chosen for its starchy creaminess that’s essential to risotto.
3/4 cup dry white wine (or dry vermouth): Adds acidity and brightness, balancing the richness beautifully.
2/3 cup grated Parmesan: Brings a salty, nutty finish that perfectly rounds out the flavors.
2 Tablespoons chopped parsley: Fresh herbaceousness that adds color and freshness.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning to elevate all the components just right.

How to Make The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Broth

Start by bringing the bone broth, water, and soy sauce to a boil in a medium saucepan. This combination sets an umami-packed foundation. Next, add the rinsed dried porcini mushrooms and let them simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes until tender. Removing the porcini to chop finely allows you to reincorporate concentrated mushroom flavor later. Meanwhile, keep the broth at a gentle simmer on the stovetop, ready for gradual addition to the rice.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat and add the olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onions and cook them slowly for about 8 minutes until soft and translucent. This slow sauté unlocks their natural sweetness. Then add the cremini mushrooms, chopped porcini, and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the mushrooms release their juices and those juices evaporate, roughly 5 more minutes. This step builds rich layers of flavor and a lovely mushroom texture that you’ll savor in every bite.

Step 3: Toast the Rice and Add Wine

Stir the Arborio rice into your mushroom mixture, letting it toast gently for a few minutes to bring out its nutty aroma. This also toasts the grains so they soak up flavor better. Then pour in the dry white wine and cook, stirring often, until the liquid evaporates—about 2 minutes. This adds acidity and brightness, balancing the creaminess coming next.

Step 4: Gradually Add Broth and Cook Until Creamy

Now for the heart of risotto-making: the slow addition of hot broth. Add 1 cup of the simmering broth to the rice, stirring almost constantly so the rice absorbs the liquid evenly and releases its starches. When the liquid is mostly gone, add broth cup by cup, stirring often, cooking over medium-low heat. This process takes about 30 minutes and is where magic happens—the rice becomes creamy and tender, enveloped with luxurious mushroom flavor. Patience is key here!

Step 5: Finish With Cheese and Fresh Herb

Once the rice is perfectly tender and creamy, stir in the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. These finishing touches introduce a salty, nutty bite and bright bursts of green that make the risotto pop on the palate. Finally, season with salt and pepper to your taste, and your masterpiece is ready to enjoy.

How to Serve The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe

The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few delicate parsley leaves on top adds visual appeal and a flavor boost. For an indulgent touch, you might drizzle a little truffle oil or scatter toasted pine nuts for a crunchy contrast. These simple garnishes can elevate the presentation and texture beautifully.

Side Dishes

This risotto shines as a hearty main course on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables makes for a more complete and colorful meal. A glass of the same dry white wine you used in cooking keeps the flavors harmonious and celebratory.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, try serving the risotto in individual shallow bowls topped with a mushroom medley or sautéed wild mushrooms for drama. Another fun idea is to plate it alongside grilled protein like chicken or salmon for a restaurant-worthy spread. No matter how you present it, The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe always looks and tastes stunning!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though it’s so good they rarely last), place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The risotto’s creamy texture may thicken, but a little reheating magic is all it takes to revive it.

Freezing

Freezing risotto is possible but not ideal since the texture changes when thawed. If you must freeze it, let the risotto cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of broth, water, or even a bit of milk to loosen the rice’s texture as you warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir frequently to encourage the risotto’s signature creaminess and avoid drying out. This way, you’ll enjoy leftovers almost as much as the fresh batch.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this risotto?

Absolutely! While cremini and porcini give a wonderful earthy depth, you can experiment with shiitake, chanterelle, or even button mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Arborio rice?

Arborio rice is preferred for its creamy starch, but you can try other short-grain rice varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano if available. Avoid long-grain rice as it won’t achieve the same creamy consistency.

Is it necessary to stir the risotto constantly?

Stirring often helps the rice release its starch for that silky texture, but you don’t have to stir nonstop. Frequent, attentive stirring every minute or two works perfectly and lets you enjoy the process without stress.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the bone broth with vegetable broth, use vegan butter and olive oil instead of butter, and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. The mushrooms will still provide a rich, satisfying flavor.

Why add soy sauce to the broth?

Soy sauce introduces a subtle, savory umami note that enhances the mushrooms’ earthiness and rounds out the flavor profile beautifully. It’s a simple addition that takes the broth to the next level.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about mastering The BEST Mushroom Risotto Recipe. Its creamy, comforting nature paired with deep mushroom flavor makes it a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. Cooking it is as rewarding as eating it, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy this risotto will bring to your table. So, grab your ingredients, turn on the stove, and let yourself be delighted by every luscious bite.