Broccoli Parmesan Risotto
Creamy and comforting Broccoli Parmesan Risotto combines tender broccoli florets with rich Parmesan cheese in a smooth, quick-to-make risotto. Perfect for a cozy dinner or small gathering, this dish balances freshness, indulgence, and vibrant flavors in under 40 minutes.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Prep your ingredients: Chop the onion or shallot finely, mince the garlic, and cut broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Grate the Parmesan cheese and warm the broth in a separate pot.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a wide pan over medium heat, then add onion and garlic. Cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, forming a flavorful base.
- Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the edges become slightly translucent, priming the rice to absorb liquid slowly.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine and stir until fully absorbed, adding a subtle acidity that balances the richness.
- Add broth gradually: Add warmed broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more to release the rice’s starch for creaminess.
- Cook broccoli: When the rice is halfway tender, stir in the broccoli florets to soften them while retaining color and crunch.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Once rice is creamy and tender but still slightly firm, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan, butter, salt, and pepper until luscious and smooth.
Notes
- Slow and steady broth addition is key for creamy risotto.
- Warm broth before adding to avoid slowing cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting.
- Add broccoli late to maintain its bright color and crunch.
- Finish with butter to enhance silkiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Broccoli Risotto, Parmesan Risotto, Creamy Risotto, Vegetarian, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food