Classic Risotto

Classic Risotto

Arborio rice is simmered in chicken broth and finished with grated parmesan and black pepper for a risotto that’s as simple to make as it is delicious to eat.

Ingredients

  • 4 c. store-bought or homemade low-sodium chicken broth
  • 5 tbsp. unsalted butter

    divided

  • 1 medium white onion

    finely chopped, about 1 1/2 c.

  • 2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

    divided

  • 1 1/2 c. arborio or carnaroli rice
  • 1 c. dry white wine
  • 3 oz. Parmesan

     finely grated&nbsp, about 1 1/2 c.

  • 3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    In a medium pot over medium-high heat, heat broth until steaming. Reduce heat to low, cover, and keep warm.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add onion and 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, translucent, and sweet to the taste, 8 to 10 minutes. Add rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent around the edges, 1 to 2 minutes more.

  3. 3

    Add wine and cook, stirring, until liquid is absorbed, 3 to 4 minutes. Add 3 cups warm broth, stir to incorporate, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until rice is just tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

  4. 4

    Uncover and add 1/2 cup warm broth. Return to a simmer over medium heat and continue to cook, stirring, until broth is absorbed, 1 to 2 minutes more. Taste and, if rice is still slightly al dente, add remaining 1/2 cup broth and continue to simmer, stirring, until absorbed and rice is tender.

  5. 5

    Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan, pepper, and remaining 1 tablespoon butter until cheese and butter are melted; season with remaining 2 teaspoons salt, if needed. Serve immediately.

Classic Risotto

Classic Risotto

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About this Recipe

Dreaming of a bowl of creamy, restaurant-quality risotto but intimidated by the process? This classic risotto recipe proves that truly exceptional comfort food can be surprisingly simple to make, perfect for any home cook.

The magic lies in just a few key ingredients: arborio rice, slowly simmered in rich chicken broth, and finished with fragrant Parmesan and fresh black pepper. This straightforward approach allows the pure, comforting flavors to shine through, creating a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying.

Prepare for a truly satisfying culinary experience. You'll enjoy a remarkably creamy texture that coats the palate, rich with the savory depth of chicken broth and the distinctive sharpness of finely grated Parmesan. Each spoonful delivers a warm, comforting embrace, perfectly balanced with a hint of freshly ground black pepper. This dish is about simple elegance, delivering a delicious, comforting meal with every bite.

Want to add your own twist? While classic risotto is perfect on its own, you could stir in sautéed mushrooms, tender peas, or roasted butternut squash at the very end for extra flavor and texture. For an alcohol-free version, simply substitute the dry white wine with an equal amount of additional chicken broth. You can also experiment with different hard Italian cheeses instead of Parmesan for a subtle flavor shift.

This classic risotto makes a wonderful main course for a cozy dinner or an elegant side dish. Serve it warm, perhaps alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread, to complete the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions