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Creamy Pumpkin Risotto Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 121 reviews

This creamy pumpkin risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for fall or any time you crave a rich, velvety meal. Made with Arborio rice, pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, and warm spices, it offers a smooth texture and delicious depth of flavors. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s perfect as a main or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Risotto Base

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
  • ¼ cup white wine
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Flavor & Finish

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onion: Heat butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which helps build the flavor base for the risotto.
  2. Toast Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice to coat it evenly with the melted butter and onion mixture. Toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes, which enhances its nutty flavor and prepares it to absorb liquids better.
  3. Add Wine: Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until it is fully absorbed by the rice. This step adds acidity and depth to the risotto.
  4. Cook with Broth: Add the warm vegetable broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be almost fully absorbed before adding the next. This gradual process, taking about 20 minutes, releases the rice’s starch and creates a creamy texture.
  5. Incorporate Pumpkin & Cheese: Once the rice is tender and the consistency is creamy, stir in the pumpkin puree and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and heated through.
  6. Season and Serve: Remove the risotto from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • Warm Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra fall flavor.
  • Extra Creamy: Stir in mascarpone or a splash of cream before serving for richer texture.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan Parmesan and dairy-free butter to make this risotto dairy-free.
  • Main Dish Upgrade: Top with roasted mushrooms or toasted pepitas for added texture and flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth. Not ideal for freezing as texture may change.

Keywords: pumpkin risotto, creamy risotto, autumn recipes, vegetarian risotto, easy risotto, Italian comfort food

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/creamy-pumpkin-risotto-recipe/