Sautéed Mushroom and Caramelized Onion Risotto

Name: Sautéed Mushroom and Caramelized Onion Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Arborio rice; 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or shiitake); 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Everyday Cooking

I absolutely adore making Sautéed Mushroom and Caramelized Onion Risotto when I want a comforting dish that feels special. This creamy risotto is packed with flavor from earthy mushrooms and sweet, caramelized onions. The process of stirring the rice while it absorbs the broth creates a luxurious texture that is simply irresistible. I love indulging in this dish on chilly evenings, and it's a great way to impress guests with minimal effort. Let's dive into the rich, aromatic flavors of this delightful recipe that warms both the body and soul.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:31:27.976Z

Making this risotto always reminds me of my travels in Italy, where fresh ingredients create magic in any dish. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions elevates the creamy Arborio rice, making for a delightful experience in every bite. I find that using a mix of wild mushrooms adds depth and richness, making this dish even more memorable.

The key to achieving the perfect risotto is patience—slowly adding the broth and stirring constantly allows the rice to release its starch, resulting in that creamy texture we all crave. I usually top mine with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors of sautéed mushrooms and sweet onions
Creamy, dreamy texture that satisfies every craving
An impressive dish perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a short-grain Italian variety known for its high starch content, which gives risotto its signature creaminess. When cooked, it releases amylopectin, a type of starch that thickens the dish, creating that luxurious texture. Make sure to avoid washing Arborio rice before cooking, as this removes the starch that contributes to the creamy consistency. If Arborio is unavailable, other short-grain varieties like Carnaroli can offer similar results.

When cooking Arborio rice, it's important to maintain a gentle simmer. A medium heat setting ensures you don’t shock the grains, allowing them to cook evenly. Stirring continuously not only prevents sticking but also helps to further release starch from the rice, enhancing the creaminess of your risotto. Trust me, this attentive technique is key to achieving the perfect creamy texture!

The Role of Caramelized Onions

Caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that elevates your risotto from ordinary to extraordinary. To achieve the best results, ensure you cook them low and slow; this method allows their natural sugars to develop, creating a sweet, rich undertone. If you're short on time, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia that caramelize faster due to their higher sugar content. Keep a close eye during the last minutes to avoid burning – the goal is a deep golden brown, not blackened bits.

In addition to flavor, these onions contribute an essential texture contrast. Their soft, silky consistency pairs beautifully with the creamy risotto, making each bite satisfying. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar during the last minute of caramelizing to introduce a tangy complexity that complements the mushrooms wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture; this avoids the common pitfall of a dry, clumpy risotto. Warm it over low heat, stirring frequently until creamy again. If you've added too much liquid, continue cooking it down, stirring constantly to maintain that coveted glossy finish.

If you need to prepare the risotto ahead of time, consider stopping just before you add the final broth. You can cool it quickly by spreading it out on a baking sheet, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the base, then gradually add the remaining broth and stir until creamy. This method helps retain the perfect texture while allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish any time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a rich Risotto:

Ingredients

2 cups Arborio rice
1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or shiitake)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect risotto:

Caramelize the Onions

In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the mushrooms until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then set them aside with the onions.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes until the grains are slightly translucent. Pour in the white wine and simmer, stirring constantly, until the wine is mostly absorbed.

Add Broth Gradually

Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Repeat this process until the rice is al dente and creamy, about 18-20 minutes.

Finish the Risotto

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve right away, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Risotto!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality vegetable broth and avoid overcooking the rice to maintain its texture.

Ingredient Variations

For a twist on this classic risotto, consider experimenting with different types of mushrooms. While cremini or shiitake are flavorful choices, a blend of wild mushrooms like chanterelles and porcinis can elevate your dish’s complexity. Dried mushrooms can also be rehydrated and added for an intense umami flavor—a little goes a long way in enriching the broth.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the Arborio rice with cauliflower rice. While it won't provide the same creamy texture, it will introduce a fresh element and reduce the overall carbohydrate content. To maintain some creaminess, consider adding a bit more broth and cheese to the mix!

Serving Suggestions

When ready to serve, don't forget to garnish the risotto with freshly chopped parsley! This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the creaminess. Pair the risotto with a light salad, like arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the dish.

For an upscale presentation, consider serving the risotto in shallow bowls topped with some truffle oil or shaved truffles, if available. This luxurious touch will certainly impress your guests and create a gourmet experience right in your home. Enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

No, Arborio rice is specifically suited for risotto due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the butter with olive oil and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to incorporate peas, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Risotto is best served immediately, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth.