Print

Creamy Cozy Risotto for Two

creamy cozy risotto - featured image

A quick and easy creamy risotto recipe perfect for cozy dinners, made with simple ingredients like Arborio rice, broth, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish delivers rich flavor and a silky texture in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) Arborio rice
  • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
  • 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Warm the broth in a medium saucepan and keep it simmering on low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains with the buttery oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges of the rice become translucent.
  4. Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until mostly absorbed by the rice, about 2-3 minutes. If skipping wine, proceed to adding broth.
  5. Add about 1/2 cup (120ml) of warm broth to the rice. Stir gently but constantly, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding the next ladle. Repeat this process for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender but still slightly firm (al dente) and the mixture is creamy.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep the broth warm to avoid cooling the rice. Stir constantly to release starches for creaminess. If risotto thickens too quickly, add more warm broth or water. Wine is optional; lemon juice can be used as a substitute for brightness. For vegan version, use vegetable broth, dairy-free butter, and nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.

Nutrition

Keywords: risotto, creamy risotto, Arborio rice, comfort food, easy dinner, quick risotto, cozy meal, Parmesan risotto