Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto

Name: Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 medium onions, thinly sliced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

I absolutely love making Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto when I want to impress my family and friends with my cooking. This dish is not only rich and creamy, but the deep flavors from the caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms elevate it to something special. The process is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are always magnificent. Risotto has always been a favorite of mine because it’s so versatile, and I love how the creamy texture warms the soul during colder months.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:10:33.872Z

When I first attempted to make risotto, I was intimidated by the constant stirring, but I quickly learned that this is what makes it so creamy and comforting. The key is to add the broth gradually and stir gently, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors while releasing its starch. I also discovered that using high-quality vegetable broth brings out the best flavors in the mushrooms and onions.

One of my favorite tips is to allow the onions to caramelize slowly on low heat, which enhances their sweetness. The result is a rich, golden mixture that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms. Completing the dish with a touch of Parmesan cheese at the end adds an irresistible richness that I can never resist!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors from caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms
Creamy texture that envelops each grain of rice beautifully
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a key ingredient in risotto, known for its high starch content. This starch is what gives risotto its luxurious creaminess. Unlike other rice, Arborio rice has a short, plump grain that absorbs liquid well while remaining al dente. When cooking, always ensure that you stir gently; this motion helps to release more starch, enhancing the dish's rich texture. If you can't find Arborio, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are good substitutes, but you might need to adjust cooking times slightly.

For best results, don’t rinse Arborio rice before cooking. Rinsing removes the outer starch that is essential for achieving that signature creamy consistency. When you first add the broth, it’s vital to maintain a gentle simmer; too high of a heat can cause the rice to cook unevenly and may lead to a risotto that is either mushy or undercooked. Keep an eye on the consistency; as you cook, the dish should become glossy but not soupy.

Perfecting Your Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is an art that can significantly influence the flavor of your risotto. Start by using a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet; this allows for even heat distribution. When you first add the onions, ensure the heat is medium-low. The goal is to coax out their natural sugars slowly, which takes time and patience—about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and if they start to stick, add a splash of broth or a bit of water to deglaze the bottom of the pan.

If you’re looking for a shortcut, you can add a pinch of sugar to speed up the caramelization process, but be cautious as it can also lead to burning if you're not careful. Once your onions are beautifully golden, incorporating mushrooms adds an earthy richness that complements the sweet undertones. Keep an eye on the mushrooms while cooking; they should soften and brown within 5-7 minutes but can turn rubbery if overcooked.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious risotto.

Prepare the broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat and keep it warm throughout the cooking process.

Caramelize the onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized.

Cook the mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the caramelized onions and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and browned.

Add the rice

Stir the Arborio rice into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is translucent. Add the white wine and cook until it has mostly evaporated.

Add the broth

Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, to the rice mixture. Stir gently and allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. Repeat this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is al dente and creamy.

Finish the risotto

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the risotto warm, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade risotto!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of truffle oil before serving or experimenting with different types of mushrooms.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little vegetable broth or water to the risotto to restore its creamy texture. Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Avoid a microwave, as it tends to dry out the dish and creates an uneven texture.

To make ahead, consider preparing the caramelized onions and mushrooms in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then simply combine with the rice and broth when you’re ready to finish the dish. This will save time on a busy weeknight without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Serving Suggestions

This Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to balance the creaminess of the risotto. Additionally, you could serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner that impresses.

For added flair, you can top the risotto with a drizzle of truffle oil or incorporate seasonal vegetables such as peas or asparagus. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives sprinkled on top provide a lovely color and additional flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead. Just reheat with a little broth to bring it back to life.

→ What type of rice is best for risotto?

Arborio rice is the most commonly used type for risotto because its high starch content creates a creamy texture.

→ Can I use meat broth instead of vegetable broth?

Absolutely! Using chicken or beef broth will enhance the flavor, especially if you want a heartier dish.

→ Is it necessary to use wine in risotto?

Wine adds depth to the flavor, but if you prefer not to use it, you can substitute with extra broth or a splash of lemon juice.