Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Risotto

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Risotto is the kind of dish that transforms simple ingredients into something truly indulgent and elegant. Risotto originated in Northern Italy and has since become a beloved classic around the world, celebrated for its velvety texture, rich flavor, and versatility.

What makes risotto special is its slow cooking technique—allowing the rice to gradually absorb flavorful stock until it becomes rich, creamy, and perfectly al dente. This version pairs earthy mushrooms and tender spinach with Parmesan cheese and butter, creating a decadent yet wholesome meal fit for any occasion.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it captures everything I love about comfort food—warmth, texture, flavor depth, and satisfaction. The umami flavor from mushrooms combined with buttery risotto rice feels luxurious yet approachable.

It is:

• Creamy without needing cream
• Hearty yet not heavy
• Simple but impressive
• Perfect for both everyday meals and special dinners

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You should definitely make this dish because:

• It teaches an essential Italian cooking technique.
• It uses everyday ingredients but tastes gourmet.
• It works as a main course or a side dish.
• It’s vegetarian-friendly (and easy to customize).

Once you master this risotto, you’ll feel like a true home chef.

Time + Servings + Nutrition

Category	Details
Preparation Time	10 minutes
Cooking Time	25–30 minutes
Total Time	35–40 minutes
Servings	4 servings
Course	Main Course
Cuisine	Italian
Calories	~420 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Risotto

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice (or other risotto rice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button), sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
• 4 cups warm vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Cooking Directions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 — Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large saucepan.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms soften and brown slightly.

Step 2 — Toast the Rice

1. Add Arborio rice to the pan.
2. Stir for 1–2 minutes until kernels become glossy—this helps with the creamy texture.

Step 3 — Deglaze

1. Pour in the wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.

Step 4 — Slowly Add Broth

1. Add ½–1 cup warm broth at a time, stirring constantly.
2. Once absorbed, add more broth.
3. Continue for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender with a slight bite.

Step 5 — Add Spinach and Finish

1. Stir in spinach and let it wilt.
2. Add remaining butter and Parmesan.
3. Stir until creamy and glossy.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

How to Serve

Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Top with:

• Extra Parmesan
• A drizzle of olive oil or truffle oil
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil

Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, garlic bread, or a crisp salad.

Recipe Tips

• Use warm broth—cold broth interrupts cooking.
• Stir frequently but not constantly—let rice rest between stirring.
• Don’t rinse the rice—you want the starch for creaminess.
• Serve immediately—risotto thickens as it sits.

Variations

• Protein Add-In: Chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
• Cheese Swaps: Pecorino Romano, mascarpone, or goat cheese.
• Mushroom Upgrade: Use porcini, chanterelle, or a mix for deeper flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan butter, vegetable broth, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Freezing & Storage

Method	Storage Time
Refrigerator	3–4 days
Freezer	1–2 months (texture changes slightly)

Special Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular rice?
A: Not recommended—Arborio or similar varieties create the creamy texture.

Q: Can I skip wine?
A: Yes—just add extra broth.

Q: Why did my risotto turn mushy?
A: It was overcooked or didn’t rest properly between broth additions.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Risotto is a dish that combines simplicity, elegance, and comfort into one satisfying bowl. Its rich, velvety texture and deep savory flavor make it unforgettable, and once you master it, you’ll come back to this recipe again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening at home or entertaining guests, this risotto delivers gourmet-restaurant quality with ease.