Risotto for One

Creamy risotto for one made with Arborio rice, mushrooms, onions, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe uses chicken broth and white wine for rich flavor and perfect texture. Ideal for a quick, single-serving meal, this mushroom risotto is simple, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1½ to 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, divided
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup sliced mushrooms (fresh or jarred)
• ¼ cup chopped onions
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup Arborio rice
• 2 ounces white wine
• ¼ cup grated or shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a 2-quart saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer over low heat. Keep it warm throughout the cooking process.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a deep-sided 10-inch skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in the onions, garlic, and salt. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the Arborio rice, coating the grains with the butter and oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Pour in the white wine and simmer until almost fully absorbed, about 2 minutes.
7. Begin adding the warm chicken broth ¼ cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, about 20 minutes.
8. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This single-serve risotto delivers creamy, restaurant-quality texture with minimal fuss. Perfect for a cozy meal for one, it’s comforting, flavorful, and customizable to your taste.

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Tips

• Keep the broth simmering to ensure even cooking and better absorption.
• Stir frequently but gently to release the rice’s starch for a creamy texture.
• Avoid rushing the broth addition—patience is key to perfect risotto.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, asparagus, or roasted butternut squash.
• Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta for extra richness.
• Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
• Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth, olive oil instead of butter, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Risotto is best served immediately. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day but may need extra broth when reheating.

Can I use a different type of rice?
Arborio rice is ideal for creamy risotto. Short-grain rice like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano also works. Long-grain rice won’t give the same texture.

Do I have to stir constantly?
Frequent stirring helps release the starch for creaminess, but gentle, occasional stirring works if you monitor closely.

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Serving

Serve this risotto as a comforting main dish or as a side with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

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Suggestions

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for added flavor.
• Drizzle a little truffle oil before serving for a gourmet touch.
• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy risotto.