Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through Italy with these 18 creamy and delicious Italian rice recipes! From classic risottos to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of mushrooms, seafood, or simply a good old-fashioned plate of garlic butter rice, there’s something for everyone on this list.
From the rich flavors of Creamy Mushroom Risotto to the bold and bright Tomato Basil Risotto, each dish is a celebration of Italy’s love affair with rice. And let’s not forget about the decadent Four Cheese Risotto or the elegant Saffron Risotto with Shrimp – these are just a few of the many mouth-watering options that await you.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Italian rice dishes and explore the various flavors and textures that make them so beloved. So go ahead, grab your apron, and get ready to cook up some serious Italian flair!
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
This creamy mushroom risotto is a rich and comforting Italian dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the mushroom mixture.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to be absorbed before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the rice should be creamy and tender. Stir in the Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
6. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in diced tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Rice
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the zest of lemon and the richness of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
8. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Italian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add 1 cup of chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Peppers with Rice
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious main dish by filling them with a savory spinach and ricotta mixture, served over fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Risotto
Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Risotto Recipe
Summary: This creamy risotto recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the diced chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Risotto
A creamy, comforting rice dish infused with the warmth of pumpkin and the earthiness of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in the roasted pumpkin puree, butter, and chopped sage leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Seafood Risotto with White Wine
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this rich and creamy seafood risotto, perfectly balanced by a splash of white wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), rinsed and patted dry
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in white wine and seafood. Cook until seafood is pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat; stir in butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with the rich flavor of truffle oil. This creamy, savory dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
5. Warm the broth and add 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly, until absorbed. Repeat for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Stir in truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Risotto
Roasted Vegetable Risotto Recipe
Summary: This creamy risotto dish is a perfect fall and winter meal, featuring roasted vegetables and Arborio rice. It’s an easy and satisfying recipe that can be customized to your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted mixed vegetables (such as butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and red bell pepper)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the roasted vegetables and Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Porcini Mushroom Risotto
Transform ordinary risotto into an extraordinary dish with the earthy flavor of porcini mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz fresh porcini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); stir until absorbed.
5. Warm broth; add 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until rice is tender and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in porcini mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Saffron Risotto with Shrimp
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful Saffron Risotto, paired with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the soaked saffron and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, topped with the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Pea Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the smoky flavor of bacon with sweet and tender peas, making for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat in oil and mix with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the pan and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, stirring after each addition, until the rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in the cooked bacon, frozen peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Artichoke and Lemon Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of artichokes with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in artichoke hearts, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Four Cheese Risotto
A rich and satisfying Italian-inspired dish, this four-cheese risotto is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mixed grated cheese (Parmesan, Cheddar, Gruyère, and Mozzarella)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
7. Stir in the grated cheese until melted and well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Risotto
A hearty and earthy risotto dish that combines the rich flavors of wild mushrooms with the brightness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to be fully absorbed before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the sliced mushrooms and thyme sprigs. Cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Rice with Pine Nuts
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of pesto with the crunch of pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (cooled)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooled rice and pesto. Mix until well combined.
2. Add toasted pine nuts and mix until they’re evenly distributed throughout the rice.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Risotto alla Milanese
A classic Italian dish from Milan, Risotto alla Milanese is a creamy rice dish flavored with saffron and served with ossobuco (braised veal shanks). This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. If using wine, add it to the rice and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice, stirring constantly. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in saffron and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 creamy rice recipes! From classic risottos like Creamy Mushroom and Tomato Basil, to innovative twists like Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Peppers and Roasted Vegetable Risotto, there’s something for every palate. Add some truffle oil or saffron for an extra luxurious touch. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, poultry, or vegetarian options, these creamy rice dishes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get creative, and let the flavors of Italy transport you to a world of culinary delight!
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