Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe

If you have a craving for something creamy, comforting, and packed with vibrant green veggies, this Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It beautifully combines the rich, cheesy goodness of Parmigiano-Reggiano with tender broccoli florets folded into perfectly cooked arborio rice, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this risotto balances flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating its iconic creamy texture. From the earthy broccoli adding a fresh burst of color and nutrition, to the wine and broth developing depth, these simple components work harmoniously to deliver a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a fruity base for sautéing the onions and garlic, infusing the risotto with subtle richness.
• ½ large yellow onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and a delicate crunch when sautéed, forming the flavor foundation.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory punch that complements the cheese and broccoli perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish and enhancing natural flavors.
• 1 cup dry white wine, such as sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio: Lends acidity and brightness while deglazing the pan.
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth: Gradually absorbed to cook the rice, imparting warmth and savoriness.
• 2 cups arborio rice: The star grain that transforms into creamy, tender risotto with its high starch content.
• 4 to 5 cups broccoli florets: Provides a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and a delightful green pop that balances the richness.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Melts beautifully into the risotto, delivering sharp, nutty depth.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with herbal freshness just before serving.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Added at the end for luscious silkiness and that classic risotto finish.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a little heat and complexity with each bite.

How to Make Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing its aroma to bloom and mingle with the onions. This step is crucial—it sets the foundation of flavor, creating a savory base packed with gentle sweetness and garlicky warmth.

Step 2: Toast the Arborio Rice

Next, add the arborio rice to the pan with the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes. Toasting the rice like this coats each grain with oil and slightly warms them, which helps the rice to better absorb the liquids later, contributing to that signature risotto creaminess. You’ll notice the rice becomes a bit translucent around the edges—this is the perfect moment to move on.

Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the dry white wine—a sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio works beautifully here—and stir until the wine has mostly evaporated. This deglazing step lifts any flavorful bits stuck to the pan and infuses the risotto with a subtle tang that balances the richness. Wine also introduces delicate layers of flavor that make this recipe so memorable.

Step 4: Gradually Add Vegetable Broth

Warm your vegetable broth separately on the stove. Begin adding it to the rice one ladle at a time, stirring gently and allowing each addition to be almost fully absorbed before adding the next. This process typically takes about 18 to 20 minutes. Stirring gently encourages the rice to release its starch, transforming the dish into a luxuriously creamy risotto. Patience here is key—rushing will dilute the texture you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Cook Broccoli Florets

When you have used about half of your broth and the rice is starting to soften, stir in the broccoli florets. They’ll cook gently in the simmering liquid, becoming tender-crisp and maintaining their vibrant green color. This timing ensures the broccoli has just the right bite without getting mushy, adding a fresh balance to the warm, cheesy rice.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese, Butter & Seasoning

Once all the broth is absorbed and the rice is beautifully tender, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, butter, finely chopped parsley, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. The cheese and butter melt into the risotto, giving it that signature silky texture and deep umami flavor. Adjust seasoning to your liking, ensuring the perfect savory harmony in every spoonful.

How to Serve Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe with simple garnishes like a sprinkle of extra grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, a few fresh parsley leaves, or even a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. These finishing touches add visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This risotto pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. For protein, consider serving alongside pan-seared chicken breasts or grilled shrimp to round out the meal with satisfying heartiness without overpowering the risotto’s delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bell peppers, adding a seasonal, festive vibe. Alternatively, plate it alongside a perfectly poached egg whose runny yolk melds into the creamy rice, enriching the dish even more. Presentation can transform this homey comfort food into an elegant, conversation-starting centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture might thicken as it cools, but don’t worry—risotto loves a little TLC when reheated.

Freezing

Freezing risotto isn’t ideal because the texture may become grainy when thawed. However, if necessary, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring your Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe back to life, reheat it slowly over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of warm vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Stir frequently until creamy and heated through—this method gently restores the dish’s lush texture without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use regular white rice instead of arborio rice?

Arborio rice is best because its high starch content creates that creamy risotto texture. Regular white rice won’t absorb liquid the same way or develop the signature creaminess, so the dish’s texture will be different.

How do I know when the risotto is cooked perfectly?

Perfectly cooked risotto should be tender but still have a slight bite or “al dente” texture in the center of each grain. It should be creamy and fluid enough to spread on a plate but not soupy or dry.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese substitutes to maintain that cheesy flavor without dairy.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Frozen broccoli can work but tends to release more water, which can affect the risotto’s texture. If using frozen, drain any excess water and add the broccoli later in the cooking to avoid sogginess.

Why do I need to stir the risotto constantly?

Stirring helps release the starch from the rice grains, which is critical for risotto’s creamy consistency. It also prevents the rice from sticking to the pan and burning, ensuring an even, luscious finish.

Final Thoughts

Giving this Broccoli Parmesan Risotto Recipe a try is like opening the door to a world of warm, cheesy comfort balanced with fresh, green vibrancy. Its simple ingredients come together to create something truly special—a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. So, grab your skillet and cook up some magic; this risotto promises to brighten your dinner table and heart alike!

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