Creamy Mushroom Spinach Risotto (Printable)
Luxurious Arborio rice with mushrooms and spinach, delivering a creamy and comforting Italian-inspired meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables & Herbs
01 - 9 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
02 - 4 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
→ Rice & Liquids
06 - 1½ cups Arborio rice
07 - 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
08 - ½ cup dry white wine
→ Dairy
09 - ¼ cup unsalted butter, divided
10 - ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
→ Pantry
12 - 2 tbsp olive oil
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
02 - Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms are golden and moisture evaporates, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
03 - Stir in Arborio rice and toast gently for 1 to 2 minutes until grains are slightly translucent at the edges.
04 - Pour in dry white wine and stir until nearly fully absorbed by the rice.
05 - Add warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow rice to absorb liquid before adding more, continuing for 18 to 20 minutes until creamy and al dente.
06 - When rice is nearly cooked, stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
07 - Remove from heat and stir in remaining butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
08 - Let stand for 2 minutes. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This risotto feels like a warm hug on a plate, easy enough for weeknights yet elegant for guests.
- Its balance of earthy mushrooms with fresh spinach gives every bite a surprise that keeps you coming back.
02 -
- Keep your broth warm to maintain the cooking temperature; cold broth shocks the rice and slows the process.
- Stirring often coax out the rice's starch, which creates that legendary creamy texture—don't rush or skip this step.
03 -
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heat and prevent scorching.
- The secret to perfect risotto lies in patience: slow cooking and frequent stirring make all the difference.