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 cup white wine; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto, especially when I want to impress family or friends with a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward. The lush texture and rich, garlicky flavor elevate this humble grain to gourmet status. I've discovered that the secret lies in constant stirring and adding warm broth gradually, which creates that beautifully creamy consistency. It’s a dish that invites conversation and pairs perfectly with any protein or vegetable, making it a versatile staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:40:37.979Z

When I first set out to create the perfect risotto, I was overwhelmed by the different techniques and tips. However, I realized that simplicity is key. By allowing the rice to absorb the broth slowly and stirring frequently, the grains liberate their starches, resulting in a velvety texture. I often add fresh herbs or roasted vegetables for extra flavor, but the garlic and Parmesan are what truly make this dish sing.

One evening, while experimenting, I accidentally added too much broth at once. Although I was worried, I found that it actually turned out creamier than my previous attempts. It taught me to embrace the process and adjust along the way. Now, I am not afraid to add my own twist to this classic!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Garlic flavor that perfectly complements savory dishes
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs or proteins

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice is crucial in making risotto as it has a higher starch content than other rice varieties. This starch is what gives risotto its signature creaminess. When cooked, Arborio retains a firm texture that leads to the perfect al dente bite, while simultaneously creating that luxurious, creamy sauce. If you can’t find Arborio, you can substitute with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano, but I wouldn’t recommend using regular long-grain rice as it lacks the necessary properties.

Another tip is to avoid rinsing the Arborio rice before cooking. While it may be tempting to wash away excess starch, doing so removes the very component that helps achieve a creamy risotto. Instead, focus on ensuring even toasting in the pan, which also sets the foundation for a rich flavor.

Broth Temperature Matters

Keeping your broth warm while making risotto is extremely important. Adding cold broth to the rice interrupts the cooking process and affects the final texture. Aim for a temperature around 160°F (70°C); you can achieve this by heating it in a saucepan over low heat. This allows for gradual temperature increase in the rice, ensuring that it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors effectively.

If you want to infuse additional flavor into your risotto, consider adding herbs or aromatics to your broth while it's warming. A sprig of thyme, a bay leaf, or even a garlic clove can elevate the taste without complicating the cooking process.

Customizing Your Risotto

One of the best aspects of risotto is its versatility. While this recipe features garlic and Parmesan, you can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms. Add these during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to let their flavors meld without losing their texture. For a protein addition, consider folding in cooked chicken or shrimp just before serving for a complete meal.

For those looking to lighten up the dish or cater to dietary restrictions, swap in nutritional yeast for Parmesan to maintain a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, if you’re seeking a richer taste, a splash of heavy cream stirred in at the end can enhance the creaminess further and add depth.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful risotto:

Ingredients

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

These ingredients will create a delicious and indulgent risotto!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy risotto:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling while you cook the risotto.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir until coated in the oil and butter. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and stir until it is completely absorbed by the rice.

Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Finish with Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Divide the risotto into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Now you have a delicious creamy risotto ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality broth and freshly grated Parmesan. Experiment with additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for variation!

Make-Ahead Tips

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components in advance. Cook the onions and garlic, then store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to make the risotto, simply reheat the aromatics and proceed with toasting the rice. This can significantly cut down on cooking time during your busy weeknights.

If cooking for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. Risotto can be made in larger batches, but be sure to use a wide skillet to allow room for stirring. However, serve the risotto immediately once finished for the best texture, as it can thicken and lose its creaminess when left to sit.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your creamy risotto in warm bowls and consider pairing it with grilled vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.

For an unexpected twist, try serving the risotto with a poached egg on top. The runny yolk adds richness and elevates the dish to a new level, making it perfect for brunch or a special dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be used as alternatives to Parmesan.

→ Is risotto gluten-free?

Yes, Arborio rice is naturally gluten-free, making this risotto suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

→ Can I add vegetables to the risotto?

Absolutely! Adding cooked vegetables like asparagus or peas in the last few minutes of cooking adds flavor and color.