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Pumpkin Risotto

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Pumpkin Risotto is a creamy, cozy, and flavorful Italian-inspired dish made with Arborio rice, pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of butter. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for fall dinners or special occasions, offering a smooth, velvety texture and golden color that captures the warmth of the season.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh sage or thyme, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Warm the broth in a saucepan over low heat and keep it simmering.
  2. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
  3. Add chopped onion and garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1–2 minutes until the grains are slightly translucent.
  5. Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir until mostly absorbed.
  6. Add one ladleful of warm broth at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
  7. Continue until the rice is creamy and tender, about 18–20 minutes.
  8. Stir in pumpkin puree and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  10. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use Arborio or Carnaroli rice for best results—these varieties create the signature creamy texture.
  • Constant stirring helps release starch, giving risotto its velvety consistency.
  • For a richer flavor, use a mix of butter and olive oil and finish with extra Parmesan.
  • If you prefer texture, stir in roasted pumpkin cubes instead of puree.
  • Leftovers can be turned into risotto cakes—simply form into patties and pan-fry until crisp.

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