Parmesan Risotto with Crispy Shallots

Name: Parmesan Risotto with Crispy Shallots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large shallots, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup flour; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making Parmesan Risotto with Crispy Shallots because it transforms a simple dish into a rich, creamy delight. Each spoonful is infused with the comforting flavors of Parmesan, while the crispy shallots on top add the perfect crunch and depth. I've spent time experimenting with the broth and cheese ratios to achieve that irresistible texture, and I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you. Trust me, once you try making risotto this way, it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:16:11.614Z

My journey with Parmesan Risotto began during a family dinner, where the combination of creamy texture and savory flavors captured my heart. I remember the first time I nailed the perfect risotto; each grain was al dente, and the depth of flavor was just right. The crispy shallots came about as a happy accident—I wanted to elevate the dish, and their crunch was a game changer!

While trying to perfect the risotto, I discovered that constant stirring helps release the starches from the rice, creating that creamy consistency. My best tip? Always toast the rice in olive oil before adding broth; it enhances the flavor immensely. Once I did that, I knew I had found my winning recipe.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that comforts any soul
Crunchy shallots that add just the right amount of contrast
Simple yet elegant enough for dinner parties

      

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Choosing the right rice is crucial for achieving the creamy texture of risotto. Arborio rice is high in starch, which contributes to the dish’s signature creaminess as it cooks. Unlike regular rice, Arborio doesn’t fully absorb liquid and instead releases starch, creating that rich, velvety sauce. I recommend measuring out the Arborio rice accurately, as too much or too little can affect the overall consistency of your risotto. You'll want about one cup for four servings.

If you can’t find Arborio, you can substitute with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice. Both have similar starch content and will help you achieve a creamy texture. Avoid long-grain varieties, as they won't provide the necessary creaminess and will result in a drier risotto.

Broth Temperature and Flavor

Using warm broth is essential for making risotto. Cold broth will cool down the rice, causing it to cook unevenly. Keep your broth simmering on a separate burner, set to low heat, while you prepare your risotto. This way, you can smoothly incorporate it into the rice without interrupting the cooking process. I find that a good-quality homemade broth enhances the flavors significantly, but store-bought broth can work in a pinch if you select a lower-sodium option to keep control over salt levels.

For added flavor, consider infusing your broth with herbs such as thyme or bay leaves while it heats. Just be sure to strain them out before using, as you don't want bits of herb interfering with the silky texture of your finished risotto.

Storing and Reheating Risotto

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may notice that the risotto has thickened; simply add a splash of warm broth or water to restore its creamy texture. Heat gently over medium-low until warmed through, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

If you're planning to make risotto in advance, you can prepare the base without adding the Parmesan. Store it and add the cheese just before serving, which will allow for an optimal creamy finish. Also, consider making a larger batch and freezing portions for a quick meal in the future; however, the texture might change slightly after freezing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Crispy Shallots

2 large shallots, thinly sliced
1/2 cup flour
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious risotto:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth until it's warm but not boiling. Keep it warm over low heat as you prepare the risotto.

Sauté the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat the rice with olive oil, and toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly translucent.

Add the Broth Gradually

Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time. Stir frequently and only add more broth once the previous amount is almost fully absorbed. This should take about 20 minutes.

Finish the Risotto

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the Parmesan cheese, remaining butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Crispy Shallots

Dredge the sliced shallots in flour, shake off the excess, and fry them in hot vegetable oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

Serve the Dish

Plate the risotto and top with crispy shallots. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Don't forget to enjoy this dish fresh for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

Make sure the broth is warm to help the rice cook evenly. Stirring constantly is key for achieving that creamy texture.

Enhancing Your Risotto

To elevate your Parmesan risotto, consider stirring in fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. This can brighten the flavors and add a nice contrast to the rich creaminess. Alternatively, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables, such as peas or asparagus, during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Another variation is to experiment with different types of cheese. While Parmesan brings a beloved flavor, adding a bit of aged Gouda or even a hint of blue cheese can give your risotto a unique twist. Just remember to balance the stronger flavors so they enhance rather than overwhelm the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your risotto becomes too thick while cooking, don't panic. Gradually adding a bit more warm broth can help loosen it up. Just be sure to stir frequently and check for doneness as you go. On the other hand, if the risotto turns out too soupy, try cooking it a little longer over low heat to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, stirring constantly to avoid sticking.

Another potential issue is overcooked rice. Be attentive during the last few minutes of cooking, as the rice should be al dente—tender but with a little bite. If you suspect it’s nearing overcooked but needs more time, reduce the heat while adding a little broth to halt the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Parmesan risotto pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared scallops for a complete meal. You can also turn it into a vegetarian dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

For a refined touch, consider garnishing your risotto with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts when serving. These elements can elevate the dish to a restaurant-quality experience, impressing guests at any dinner party.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular rice instead of Arborio?

Arborio rice is specially selected for risotto because of its high starch content, making it creamy. Regular rice may not yield the same results.

→ How do I store leftover risotto?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently with a splash of broth to regain moisture.

→ Can I make this risotto vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative and use vegetable broth and olive oil for cooking.

→ What else can I add to the risotto?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach during cooking to enhance flavors and nutritional value.