Nonna's Creamy Mushroom Risotto

If you're looking for a rich, comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion, this creamy mushroom risotto is the ultimate choice. Made with arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and a touch of parmesan cheese, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. It's actually pretty simple to make and totally worth the time.

I like to add fresh cut Italian Parsley to mine as I did above, but your choice!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Mushroom Risotto Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: Achieved through slow cooking and constant stirring.

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of mushrooms, broth, and parmesan creates deep, savory notes.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a cozy weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish impresses every time.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups arborio rice

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed

• 1 cup dry white wine

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 8-10 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 pinch Italian Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• ½ teaspoon thyme (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms, pinch of Italian Seasoning and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Toasting the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges of the grains become slightly translucent. This helps develop a nutty flavor.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine, stirring continuously until it is mostly absorbed by the rice. This step enhances the depth of flavor.

5. Add the Broth Gradually

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle. Repeat this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender with a slight bite.

6. Finish with Mushrooms and Cheese

Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the sautéed mushrooms, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and creamy.

7. Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and let the risotto sit for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley and thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Risotto

• Use Warm Broth: Adding cold broth slows the cooking process and affects texture.

• Stir Frequently: This helps release the starches, creating a creamy consistency.

• Don't Rush: Risotto requires patience to achieve the perfect texture.

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta for extra heartiness.

• Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth, dairy-free butter, and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

• Try Different Mushrooms: Experiment with shiitake, portobello, or wild mushrooms for unique flavors.

  
  

This mushroom risotto is a timeless dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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Thank you,

Jennifer