Creamy Pumpkin Risotto

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This risotto is the ultimate comfort food: rich, velvety, and full of seasonal flavor. The natural sweetness of the pumpkin is perfectly balanced by the saltiness of Parmesan and the depth of onion, garlic, and herbs. Whether served as a main course or a side, it’s an impressive, meatless dish that’s surprisingly easy to make with just a little attention and stirring.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Arborio rice
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion or shallot (finely chopped)
• Garlic
• Dry white wine (optional)
• Pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
• Vegetable broth (warm)
• Fresh thyme or sage
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Extra Parmesan and herbs (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the arborio rice and stir to coat the grains in oil. Toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook until it’s mostly absorbed.
5. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and waiting for each addition to absorb before adding the next.
6. After about 15 minutes, stir in the pumpkin purée and continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is tender and creamy, about 25–30 minutes total.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed.
8. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan and herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and plant-based Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
• Add texture: Top with toasted pepitas, crispy sage, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of chili flakes or smoked paprika for subtle heat.
• Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition.
• Use fresh pumpkin: Roast and mash fresh pumpkin for a deeper, more rustic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the risotto.
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use long-grain rice instead of arborio?

No, arborio or other short-grain rice is essential for the creamy texture of risotto.

Is canned pumpkin okay to use?

Yes, canned 100% pure pumpkin is perfect and saves time. Avoid pumpkin pie filling.

What wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best. You can skip it if preferred.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Risotto is best fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and reheat gently with extra broth.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be al dente—tender with a slight bite—and the consistency should be creamy, not soupy.

What can I serve with pumpkin risotto?

Grilled vegetables, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad make great sides.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, cooked pancetta, sausage, or shredded chicken can be added for extra protein.

How do I keep risotto from drying out?

Stir in extra broth before serving or reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I use broth straight from the fridge?

No, always use warm broth—it helps the risotto cook evenly and maintain its creaminess.

What herbs pair best with pumpkin?

Sage, thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg all complement the natural sweetness of pumpkin beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Pumpkin Risotto is a rich, elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight meal or a holiday side, it’s sure to impress with its warm flavor and luxurious texture. Add your favorite toppings or variations, and you’ve got a seasonal favorite worth repeating all year long.

Creamy Pumpkin Risotto

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Creamy Pumpkin Risotto is a cozy, elegant dish made with arborio rice, pumpkin purée, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. It’s rich, velvety, and full of comforting fall flavor—perfect as a meatless main or seasonal side.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 3/4 cup pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Extra Parmesan and herbs for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat. Toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in white wine (if using) and cook until mostly absorbed.
5. Add warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring often and letting each addition absorb before adding more.
6. After 15 minutes, stir in the pumpkin purée and continue cooking, adding broth and stirring until rice is tender and creamy (about 25–30 minutes total).
7. Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Adjust consistency with more broth if needed.
8. Remove from heat, let sit 2 minutes, then serve topped with extra Parmesan and herbs.

Notes

• Use warm broth to ensure even cooking and creaminess.
• Risotto is best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated with a splash of broth.
• Try topping with crispy sage, sautéed mushrooms, or toasted pepitas for added texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 20mg