Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

When it comes to comfort food, I can't resist a rich, creamy risotto. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto is a true masterpiece that combines the savory flavors of garlic with the indulgence of Parmesan cheese. I love how every bite is creamy and luxurious, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party. The slow stirring and gradual addition of broth may sound tedious, but it really does make a difference in the texture. Let me share this delightful recipe that's sure to impress anyone at your table!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:37.095Z

As I prepared this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto, I realized how much I enjoy the process of making it. The aroma of sautéed garlic filled my kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s intriguing how patience pays off; slowly adding the broth ensures that the rice soaks up all those delicious flavors while becoming perfectly creamy. The first spoonful reminded me of why I fell in love with cooking.

One of my favorite tips for risotto is to use a good quality stock, which elevates the taste immensely. Using homemade stock, if possible, makes a world of difference. I also recommend reserving a little Parmesan to stir in at the end for an extra layer of creaminess. This risotto is not only a meal; it’s an experience!

Why You'll Love This Risotto
Luxuriously creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Rich garlic flavor combined with nutty Parmesan
Perfect for impressing guests at your dinner parties

The Art of Stirring

One of the key techniques for achieving the perfect creamy risotto is the stirring process. As you gradually add the warm broth, it's crucial to stir continuously. This movement helps release the starches from the Arborio rice, which thickens and enriches the dish. I recommend using a wooden spoon for this task; it feels more traditional and allows for better control when scraping the bottom of the skillet. Don't rush it—this part of the process is where the magic happens.

Pay attention to the texture as you cook. Risotto should be creamy but not watery. If it feels too thick, you can add a bit more broth or even a splash of warm water. Conversely, should it be too soupy, increase your heat slightly and let some of the liquid evaporate while stirring, allowing it to achieve that desired velvety consistency.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

Using high-quality ingredients can elevate your risotto significantly. For the broth, homemade chicken or vegetable broth provides a deeper flavor compared to store-bought versions. If you're short on time, opt for low-sodium varieties to keep control of the saltiness, especially since you'll be adding Parmesan cheese later. Focusing on the quality of your cheese is just as important; freshly grated Parmesan melts better and brings a distinct nutty layer to the dish.

If you're looking to make substitutions, consider replacing the dry white wine with a splash of lemon juice for acidity or using a non-alcoholic white wine alternative. For a twist, you can experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino for a sharper flavor, or stir in some cream after adding the cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the ultimate risotto experience:

For the Risotto

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy risotto:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Keep it warm while you prepare the risotto.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the butter. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until it's slightly translucent.

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and stir until it's fully 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 18-20 minutes until the rice is al dente and creamy.

Stir in Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash more broth for extra creaminess.

Serve

Garnish the risotto with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or asparagus to your risotto. You can also drizzle with a bit of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this risotto in advance, cook the base—without the cheese or butter—and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, adding broth gradually until you achieve that creamy consistency again. Stir in the cheese and butter just before serving to ensure freshness and that final touch of creaminess.

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be turned into delicious arancini. Just let the risotto cool, form it into balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until golden. Not only do you reduce waste, but you also get to enjoy a new dish that is crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside!

Serving Suggestions

To make your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto even more enticing, consider pairing it with sautéed mushrooms or asparagus. Simply add the vegetables in the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of color and flavor. If you're serving it as a main dish, a side of garlicky sautéed greens can complement this richness beautifully.

For an elegant touch, finish your plate with aromatic fresh herbs such as thyme or basil. A few shavings of truffle or a drizzle of truffle oil can also enhance the luxurious feel of the dish, creating an impressive experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just reheat gently with a bit of broth to restore its creaminess.

→ What type of rice should I use?

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

→ Can I use frozen broth?

Yes, frozen broth works well. Just ensure it's fully thawed and heated before adding it to the risotto.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and omit any animal-based ingredients for a delicious vegetarian dish.