Master the art of Italian risotto with this guide to traditional techniques, flavor pairings, and FAQs.
Risotto is a creamy, comforting Italian rice dish that's loved worldwide for its luxurious texture and deep flavor. Whether you're craving mushroom risotto, seafood variations, or a rich saffron-infused Milanese version, this guide covers it all. Learn how to make risotto step by step, explore popular recipes, and find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What is risotto?
Risotto is a classic Northern Italian dish made with arborio or carnaroli rice cooked slowly in broth. It’s known for its creamy consistency and is often enriched with butter, cheese, and flavorful ingredients like mushrooms or seafood.
How to make risotto?
Making risotto involves toasting the rice (a process called “tostatura”), then slowly adding warm broth while stirring constantly. This releases the starches from the rice, creating the signature creamy texture. Finish with butter and grated Parmesan for a luxurious finish.
Is risotto gluten free?
Yes—risotto is naturally gluten-free, as it’s made from rice. However, be sure to check the broth or any additional ingredients for hidden gluten if cooking for someone with celiac disease.
Mushroom Risotto
Earthy, savory, and full of umami, mushroom risotto is a comforting vegetarian dish perfect for fall and winter.
Ricardo
Butternut Squash Risotto
Sweet and nutty butternut squash pairs beautifully with the creamy base of risotto for a colorful, seasonal meal.
PaulN
Lobster Risotto
A luxurious take perfect for special occasions. Lobster adds richness and elegance to the dish.
Jose Hernandez
Shrimp Risotto
Light and flavorful, shrimp risotto is a seafood favorite. Add lemon zest or white wine for brightness.
Lance Wilson
Chicken Risotto
A hearty and family-friendly option, chicken risotto is creamy comfort food with protein-packed flavor.
Amy
Saffron Risotto (Risotto alla Milanese)
This bright yellow risotto from Milan uses saffron for color and a deep, floral flavor. Serve it with osso buco for a classic pairing.
Spice Mix
🍚 What’s the Best Rice for Risotto? Types and Cooking Tips
The rice you use in risotto is everything. Unlike long-grain rice varieties like basmati or jasmine, risotto requires short-grain, high-starch rice that creates the dish’s signature creamy texture without needing cream.
Here are the two most commonly used types:
Arborio: The most widely available risotto rice. It’s plump, short-grain, and releases plenty of starch, though it can overcook quickly if not monitored. [Risotto arborio recipes]
Carnaroli: Often considered the best rice for risotto. It holds its shape better than Arborio and results in a creamier, more al dente finish. [Risotto carnaroli recipes]
Why These Rice Types Work:
These rices are high in amylopectin, a type of starch that dissolves during slow cooking and constant stirring, creating that velvety sauce-like consistency risotto is known for.
⏱️ Cooking Time and Tips to cook risotto
Typical cook time: 18–20 minutes once broth is added.
Best technique: Toast the rice briefly in fat (oil or butter) before adding wine or broth. Add broth gradually while stirring constantly to encourage starch release.
Doneness test: The grains should be al dente—cooked through but still slightly firm in the center.
Pro tip: Warm your broth before adding it to the rice. Cold liquid slows the cooking process and can make the texture uneven.
Risotto FAQs
Q: What type of rice should I use for risotto?
A: Arborio, carnaroli, or vialone nano are the best choices. They have a high starch content for creaminess.
Q: How do I make risotto creamy without cream?
A: The creaminess comes from the starch released by the rice. Stirring and gradually adding broth does the trick—no cream needed!
Q: Can I make risotto ahead of time?
A: Risotto is best served fresh, but you can par-cook it (about 80% done), spread on a sheet tray to cool, then finish cooking later.
Q: Is risotto healthy?
A: Risotto can be part of a balanced meal—especially when made with veggies, lean proteins, or plant-based broth. It’s rich, so enjoy in moderation.