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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

As an avid risotto lover, I can't help but fall for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto every single time I make it. The creamy texture and rich flavor of garlic and Parmesan come together to create a dish that feels luxurious while remaining incredibly comforting. I’ve learned over the years that the key to perfect risotto is patience and a good stirring technique, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors beautifully. Whether it’s for an intimate dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:57:35.980Z

When I first tried making a risotto, I was intimidated by the process. However, after my first successful attempt, I realized that the stirring is an art form that transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. Achieving that creamy consistency takes a little time and care, but it’s all worth it in the end.

One specific tip I have is to use a good-quality Parmesan cheese; it elevates the dish immensely. When you mix in the cheese at the end, the risotto becomes incredibly rich, and I often find myself savoring each creamy bite. It’s a dish that's sure to bring smiles to the dinner table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Richly creamy texture that warms your soul
Infused with garlic for a comforting flavor kick
Simple ingredients that deliver gourmet results

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this recipe, known for its high starch content that yields a creamy texture characteristic of traditional risotto. When cooked, each grain releases starch, resulting in that signature luscious consistency you crave. Make sure to choose high-quality Arborio rice and avoid rinsing it before cooking; rinsing washes away the starch and can lead to a less creamy dish.

To achieve the best results, ensure that your rice is fresh and stored in a cool, dry place. Old rice may not release starch as effectively when cooked. The ideal cooking time for Arborio rice is around 18-20 minutes; during this period, you'll notice the rice gradually absorbing liquids and swelling, turning al dente and creamy.

Perfecting the Stirring Technique

Patience plays a crucial role in making risotto. The key to perfect risotto lies in the constant stirring—this encourages the rice to release its starch while also preventing it from sticking to the pan. Stir with a wooden spoon or a sturdy silicone spatula, moving from the edges of the skillet towards the center to ensure even cooking and absorption of liquid.

Keep the heat at medium to medium-low; a gentle simmer promotes even cooking without burning the rice. If at any point the risotto starts to cling too tightly to the pan, a little extra broth can help loosen it. Remember, it should flow freely but still hold its shape when plated.

Variations and Customizations

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto serves as an excellent foundation for various ingredient additions. Consider folding in sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes right at the end of cooking for a pop of flavor and color. Each of these options can elevate your dish while maintaining the core comfort of the risotto.

For a richer flavor, substituting half of the Parmesan cheese with Gorgonzola or goat cheese adds depth without compromising creaminess. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use low-sodium broth and reduce the amount of butter and cheese slightly without sacrificing too much flavor.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

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

Instructions

Instructions

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth over low heat and keep it warm.

Sauté Aromatics

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

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the rice absorbs the oil and becomes slightly translucent.

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and simmer, stirring frequently, until the wine is absorbed by the rice.

Incorporate Broth Gradually

Ladle in the warm broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid has been absorbed before adding more broth. This process should take about 20 minutes.

Finish the Risotto

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for best texture.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra flavor and texture. Always taste the risotto towards the end of cooking to ensure it's cooked to your preference!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to help restore its creamy texture, as risotto tends to dry out when cooled. Use a non-stick skillet over low to medium heat for best results, stirring frequently until warmed through.

If you plan to make risotto ahead of time, consider preparing the base and finishing the dish with cheese and butter just before serving. This way, you can enjoy the fresh taste and creamy texture without much hassle during mealtime.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your risotto turns out too thick, it's often due to cooking it too long or using too much rice. Adding warm broth a little at a time during the cooking process will help to manage consistency, so stick to the gradual addition method. If you find yourself stuck, whisking in a little extra broth can help bring back the creaminess.

Conversely, if the risotto is too watery, giving it a few extra minutes on the heat can help evaporate excess liquid. Just be cautious not to overcook the rice—once it hits al dente, it's time to add your cheese and finish the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can prepare the broth and sauté the aromatics in advance. Just combine them when you're ready to cook.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with an additional cup of broth plus a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

→ Is it necessary to stir constantly?

While you don’t need to stir constantly, frequent stirring helps release the rice's starches, resulting in a creamier texture.

→ Can I use regular rice instead of Arborio?

Arborio rice is ideal for risotto due to its high starch content. Using other rice may not yield the same creamy consistency.