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 mushrooms, sliced (cremini or shiitake); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Risotto, especially on cozy evenings when I want to treat myself to something gourmet yet comforting. The way the arborio rice absorbs the broth creates a creamy texture that is simply irresistible. I’ve tried various versions, but the combination of earthy mushrooms and a hint of garlic makes this recipe my favorite. Plus, it’s a wonderful dish to share with friends – perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion, and surprisingly easy to master with a bit of patience.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T16:03:19.212Z

Making this Creamy Mushroom Risotto has been a delightful journey for me, experimenting with different types of mushrooms and broth. I found that using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms brings more depth of flavor. It's also important to avoid rushing the process; allowing the rice to absorb the liquid gradually creates that creamy consistency we all love. I usually keep my broth warmed on the stove, which helps the rice cook evenly.

One of my favorite tips is to finish the risotto with a knob of butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This not only enriches the flavor but also enhances the creaminess of the dish. Serving it immediately is key, as it tastes best fresh and hot, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top to elevate the dish even further!

Why You'll Love This Risotto
Rich umami flavor from fresh mushrooms
Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Versatile dish perfect for any occasion

Key Techniques for Perfect Risotto

The secret to achieving a creamy risotto lies in the technique of stirring and the specific type of rice used. Arborio rice is preferred because it has higher starch content, which contributes to the creaminess. When adding broth, make sure it’s warm, not cold, as this allows the rice to cook evenly without disrupting the temperature. Stirring continuously helps release the starch, creating a velvety texture. If you find it clumping, increase your stirring frequency until it loosens.

Timing is crucial when cooking the risotto. Be patient and avoid adding all the broth at once; this defeats the purpose of building the creamy consistency. After 18-20 minutes of gradual addition, your rice should be al dente. If you're unsure, taste a grain. It should be tender yet slightly firm to the bite. Remember, the residual heat will continue cooking the rice after you remove it from the heat.

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Roles

Experimenting with different types of mushrooms can dramatically alter the flavor profile of this risotto. While cremini and shiitake offer rich, earthy notes, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms for a gourmet touch. If you're looking to brighten the dish, adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can enhance the overall flavor. Additionally, swapping in vegetable broth instead of chicken can make this dish vegetarian without compromising on depth.

For a touch of creaminess, you can substitute half of the broth with heavy cream or even use a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. These additions lend a unique twist while still keeping the essence of a traditional risotto. If parmesan is not available, nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami flavor for those following a dairy-free diet.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or shiitake)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it on a low simmer.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are translucent.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender and browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Toast the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it in the butter and cooking for about 2 minutes until slightly translucent.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it is mostly absorbed.

Gradually Add Broth

Start adding the warmed broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.

Finish with Cheese and Butter

Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the remaining butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of truffle oil just before serving. You can also experiment with adding cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make it ahead of time, cook it until just before it reaches the al dente stage, about 15-17 minutes in. Remove it from the heat, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of broth and stir frequently over low heat to regain that creamy texture. It’s important to note that it may not retain the same firmness once reheated, but the flavor will still be there.

For longer storage, you can freeze the risotto. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe bags, and freeze flat for easy stacking. To reheat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop with broth or water, stirring continuously until heated through. This method works well for busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the hassle.

Serving Ideas

Creamy Mushroom Risotto pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Alternatively, grilled shrimp or chicken can add protein and make it a heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, top the risotto with sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus.

Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshness to the dish. For an elevated touch, drizzle a bit of truffle oil or shave some truffles on top before serving. This will enhance the earthy flavor of the mushrooms and make your risotto feel truly gourmet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Brown rice is not recommended for risotto as it requires different cooking times and doesn’t yield the same creamy texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive creaminess.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this risotto can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting any meat.

→ Can I make risotto vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with olive oil and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.