Name: Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (cremini preferred); 2 cups fresh baby spinach; 4 cups vegetable broth; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp butter

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Catch the aroma of earthy mushrooms mingling with vibrant spinach in a bowl of creamy mushroom and spinach risotto. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that wraps you in a cozy hug. Each bite is a blend of rich flavors and silky textures that dance on your palate.

It’s a rainy Saturday evening, and you’re craving comfort food. As you stir the pot, the tantalizing scent wafts through your home, promising warmth and satisfaction. Gather your loved ones around; this dish is perfect for sharing stories and laughter!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy mushroom and spinach risotto is incredibly easy to whip up for weeknight dinners or special occasions
The delightful combination of flavors creates a visually stunning dish that will impress anyone at your table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand!

There’s nothing quite like hearing my family rave about this creamy mushroom and spinach risotto during our cozy family dinners.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Arborio Rice: This short-grain rice is essential for achieving that signature creaminess in your risotto.
Fresh Mushrooms: Choose your favorite variety; I love using cremini for their rich flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Use baby spinach for its tender leaves that wilt beautifully into the dish.
Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought; either adds depth to your risotto’s flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese makes all the difference in adding richness.
Onion: Finely chopped onion brings sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and sautéing; it enhances flavors beautifully.
Butter: A bit of butter stirred in at the end gives your risotto that luxurious finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.

Add the Mushrooms: Toss in sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown. Their earthy aroma will fill your kitchen!

Add the Rice: Stir in Arborio rice until lightly toasted for about two minutes. This step enhances its nutty flavor while creating a lovely base.

Add Broth Gradually: Pour in vegetable broth one ladle at a time while stirring constantly. Wait until absorbed before adding more—this helps release starches for creaminess.

Add Spinach: When the rice is al dente after about 15-20 minutes, fold in fresh spinach until wilted. The vibrant green color adds visual appeal!

Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Taste that glorious creaminess—it’ll be hard not to dive right in!

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful creamy mushroom and spinach risotto! Enjoy every last spoonful as you bask in the glory of your culinary triumph!

You Must Know

This creamy mushroom and spinach risotto is a comfort food classic
The rich flavors meld beautifully, making it an ideal dish for cozy nights
It’s also perfect for impressing guests, with its creamy texture and vibrant colors

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil before adding Arborio rice. Gradually add broth while stirring to achieve that creamy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in different vegetables like peas or asparagus, or even sprinkle some fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavor profile
Stirring constantly helps release starch from the rice, enhancing creaminess
Don’t rush; patience is key when adding broth gradually for perfect texture

Nothing beats the moment when my friend took a bite of this risotto and declared it “better than therapy.” That’s when I knew I had struck culinary gold!

FAQ

Can I use other types of rice for risotto?

While Arborio rice is best, you can try Carnaroli or Vialone Nano for similar results.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?

Water will work in a pinch, but vegetable broth enhances the flavor significantly.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free and avoid any added sauces with gluten ingredients.