Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Name: Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake and cremini mix); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites

I love making this creamy mushroom risotto on cozy nights when I crave something warm and comforting. The combination of arborio rice and rich, savory mushrooms creates a dish that is both decadent and satisfying. The slow cooking and constant stirring are essential to achieve that perfect creamy texture, and I find the process incredibly rewarding. With just a few ingredients, I can make a dish that feels luxurious yet is accessible enough for any home cook. Join me in embracing this enchanting recipe that warms the soul.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:25:36.143Z

When I first tried my hand at making risotto, I was amazed at how something so simple could yield such incredible flavors. Each grain of arborio rice absorbs the broth and releases its starch, creating a creamy consistency that I absolutely adore. I always use fresh mushrooms, preferably a mix of shiitake and cremini, to deepen the flavor profile. Remember, the key is to add the broth gradually and stir consistently for that signature creaminess.

I've also discovered that adding a splash of white wine during cooking not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely acidity that complements the richness of the mushrooms. It's such a delightful meal that I often impress dinner guests with this easy yet sophisticated dish. Try pairing it with a light salad or a glass of your favorite wine for an elevated experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that warms your heart
Nutty flavors from fresh mushrooms and parmesan
Perfectly balanced with a hint of white wine

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this creamy mushroom risotto, and for good reason. This short-grain rice contains a high amount of amylopectin, a starch that gives risotto its signature creaminess without the need for heavy cream. When cooked slowly and stirred frequently, arborio rice releases this starch, resulting in that luscious texture that coats each grain beautifully. Avoid substitutes like long-grain rice, as they won’t provide the same creamy consistency and may end up mushy or undercooked.

It's vital to rinse arborio rice briefly before cooking to remove excess starch. This small step can prevent clumping and ensure the grains cook evenly, absorbing liquid at just the right pace. When adding broth, keep it at a gentle simmer; this helps maintain an even cooking temperature, preventing the rice from becoming too gummy. Stirring frequently allows you to monitor the texture and doneness, ensuring your risotto turns out perfectly al dente with just a hint of bite.

Mastering the Broth Addition

A key technique in making creamy risotto is the gradual addition of broth. Adding it one ladle at a time allows the rice to fully absorb the liquid, promoting a harmonious blend of flavors while achieving that creamy consistency. When you add the next ladle, wait until most of the previous broth is absorbed, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per addition. This controlled approach prevents the rice from becoming overloaded with liquid, which could lead to overly soft grains.

Keep your broth warm throughout the cooking process; starting with cold broth can shock the rice and disrupt proper cooking. For an added layer of flavor, consider infusing your broth with herbs—such as thyme or bay leaves—while heating it. This not only enhances the backdrop of the risotto but also allows for subtle variations. Just remember to strain out any herbs before adding the broth to your rice for a smooth and enjoyable texture.

Variations and Pairings

This creamy mushroom risotto serves as a fantastic base for a variety of ingredients. For a seasonal twist, consider adding roasted butternut squash or sautéed spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. These additions provide a sweet contrast to the earthy mushrooms while also adding a pop of color. If you’re in the mood for protein, try folding in cooked chicken or shrimp into the finished risotto, which elevates this dish to a heartier meal.

Serving this risotto can be as simple as garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, which add a bright, aromatic bouquet that complements the dish. A drizzle of truffle oil just before serving can transform it into a luxurious experience. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore the creamy texture!

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake and cremini mix)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Steps:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth over low heat and keep it warm throughout the cooking process.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender and browned, about 5 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the grains to absorb the flavors.

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and simmer until it has mostly evaporated.

Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Only add more broth once the previous amount has been absorbed. Repeat until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18 minutes.

Finish with Parmesan

Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of truffle oil before serving.

Tips for Perfect Mushrooms

Choosing the right mushrooms is essential for depth of flavor. A mix of shiitake and cremini mushrooms creates a rich, earthy base for your risotto. Make sure to clean them gently with a damp cloth or paper towel instead of rinsing them under water, as excess moisture can affect texture. When sautéing, allow the mushrooms to sit in the skillet undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring; this helps them brown nicely and develop a deeper flavor.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider using other mushrooms like portobello or oyster, which can offer unique flavors and textures. Just be mindful of their moisture content; if using very wet mushrooms, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly or remove excess moisture so your risotto doesn't become watery.

Troubleshooting Risotto

If your risotto isn’t coming together as expected, it often comes down to heat control. If the rice is cooking too quickly or becoming dry, lower the heat and ensure you’re adding broth more regularly. Conversely, if it’s too soupy, you might have added your broth too quickly, so try letting it simmer a bit longer after reducing the liquid. Keeping a close eye on the texture is key, as perfect risotto should be creamy yet still allow the individual grains to be discernible.

Another common issue is ending up with a risotto that’s too thick or gummy. Remember, stirring is essential not just for incorporating broth but also for aerating the rice. If you find your risotto too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit of hot water until you achieve the desired creaminess. The final texture should be luscious, with enough sauce to envelop the rice, making for an inviting and comforting dish.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this risotto recipe up or down is straightforward, but keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly. For larger batches, it’s best to use wider pots to provide sufficient surface area for evaporation, which helps maintain that creamy consistency. As a rule of thumb, increase the quantity of broth in proportion to the rice, maintaining the one-to-four ratio, while still adding broth gradually.

If you're cooking for a smaller group, you can halve the recipe and still enjoy that rich, decadent flavor. Just be aware that making smaller quantities could lead to quicker absorption of the broth, so stay close to the stove, watching for the right creamy consistency. Regardless of the batch size, the key is to master your timing and heat level to ensure a perfect risotto every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

While arborio rice is preferred for its creamy texture, you can use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano as alternatives.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based additions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth to restore creaminess.

→ Can I add protein to this risotto?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp can make a great addition for a heartier meal.