Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Effortless Plate Creations

When I decided to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto, I knew it would be a special treat for dinner. The combination of creamy Arborio rice with rich flavors of garlic and parmesan always has a way of bringing comfort to my table. I love how each bite melts in your mouth, infused with a hint of garlic that elevates the entire dish. Whether I’m hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night at home, this risotto never fails to impress. Can’t wait to share the secrets behind this delicious recipe!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:49:37.197Z

Making this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto was an adventure that led me to appreciate the beauty of patience in cooking. When I first started out, I wasn’t sure if stirring the rice continuously would make a difference, but I was amazed at how much creamier the risotto became with each stir, allowing the starch to be released. Now, I wouldn't skip that step for anything!

The secret ingredient that truly elevates this dish, in my opinion, is the fresh garlic sautéed in butter at the beginning. The aroma fills the kitchen and forms a sparkling foundation for the rice. Each bite allows the heavenly taste of garlic to shine through, making it one of my favorite meals to savor.

Why You’ll Love This Risotto
Creamy texture that's indulgently satisfying
Robust flavor from fresh garlic and rich parmesan
Perfectly comforting for any occasion

Mastering Risotto Texture

Achieving the perfect risotto texture relies heavily on your cooking technique. The key is to stir continuously while adding the broth in increments. This constant agitation encourages the starches to release from the Arborio rice, creating a creamy consistency. You should aim for a texture that is al dente—a slight bite in the center of the grain, which typically takes about 18 to 20 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on the rice; it should appear glossy and slightly wet when done.

Another crucial element is the right broth temperature. Adding cold broth will shock the rice, inhibiting its ability to cook evenly and release starch. Keeping the broth warm on a separate burner ensures smooth integration into the risotto, preventing any interruptions in the cooking process. A well-cooked risotto should flow but still hold its shape on the plate, so aim for that delicate balance.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese is essential in this recipe. Parmigiano-Reggiano is highly recommended over grated commercial parmesan for its complex flavor and meltability. Aged varieties provide a nuttier taste that can enrich the risotto. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can replicate some of that umami flavor, though it won't have the same creaminess. Just remember to adjust the salt, as nutritional yeast is typically less salty than cheese.

Wine plays a dual role here: it adds acidity and depth of flavor, which are pivotal in balancing the richness of the dish. If you prefer to avoid wine, opt for a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar, but add it later in the cooking process, so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors. Always choose a wine that you would enjoy drinking; its quality will reflect in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup white wine
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all the ingredients are prepped beforehand to streamline the cooking process!

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pan, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the grains with the oil and butter.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until fully absorbed by the rice, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Add Broth Gradually

Start adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the broth is nearly absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process should take about 20 minutes.

Finish with Cheese and Butter

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, remove it from heat. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the risotto hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

For best results, serve immediately while the risotto is creamy.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or peas to the risotto as it cooks. Just be mindful of adjust broth measurements slightly.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover risotto, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the texture might change as it tends to firm up when chilled. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Be cautious of cooking it too long, as this could result in a gummy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, stirring every minute to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, risotto can be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding cheese. Freeze it in portions, and when you're ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it from frozen, adding fresh cheese and a little liquid to restore its creamy consistency. This method allows the risotto to maintain its original flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto pairs wonderfully with various proteins, making it incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or seared shrimp for a complete meal, adding some green vegetables like asparagus or peas for color and nutrition. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider garnishing the dish with crispy pancetta or sautéed mushrooms, enhancing the rich flavor profile of the risotto.

For a vegetarian twist, incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or butternut squash. Sauté them with the onions for added depth and sweetness, allowing them to complement the garlic and cheese beautifully. This not only adds flavor dynamics but also boosts the dish's health factors, making it a well-rounded option for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

It's best served fresh; however, you can prepare the base ahead and add broth when ready to serve.

→ What rice should I use for risotto?

Arborio rice is ideal for its high starch content, which gives risotto its creamy texture.

→ Is it necessary to stir risotto constantly?

Yes, stirring releases the starch from the rice, creating a creamy texture.

→ Can I use water instead of broth?

While you can use water, broth adds much more flavor to the dish.