Broccoli Risotto Recipe: The Easy Weeknight Meal

As someone who loves cooking simple yet delicious meals, broccoli risotto has become one of my go-to recipes, and is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition.

The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Step Instructions + Tips
• FAQ’s
• Recipe card (Printable)

There are so many reasons why broccoli risotto is now a staple in my home. 

Firstly, this dish, from start to finish, can be prepared in one pot.

Secondly, It is easy to prepare. Even less experienced cooks can master this simple risotto recipe. 

And last but not least, it is soo comforting. 

The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this dish resemble a warm hug.

How to Make Risotto

Making risotto might seem difficult, but with a little patience and the right technique, you’ll be able to master this Italian classic. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a creamy Risotto.

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need:

• 1 cup Arborio rice – you can use Carnaroli rice or Vialone Nano
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock (I make my own vegetable broth with my homemade vegetable bouillon)
• 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups frozen or fresh broccoli
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, for the “mantecatura” at the end
• Salt and black pepper to taste

In the classic risotto recipe, the rice after roasting is deglazed with dry white wine, but in this recipe, I did not add it. 

Step 1

Start by cooking the broccoli, in a large saucepan with a drizzle of oil for about 10 minutes, if you want you can also boil them in the broth you will use for cooking the risotto. 

Step 2 

Heat the olive oil in the same large skillet where you cook the broccoli, over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent.

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast the rice for a few minutes at medium-high heat.

This step helps to unlock the rice’s starch in the cooking process.

Step 3 

Pour a ladleful of warm broth into the pan, and stir gently until the liquid is absorbed by the rice.

Continue this process, adding a little broth at a time, and stirring continuously at medium heat.

Halfway through cooking (about 10 minutes in), add the broccoli florets to the pan.

Continue adding broth and stirring until the broccoli is tender and the rice is al dente.

Step 4 

Once the rice reaches the desired consistency, remove the pan from heat.

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the butter, allowing it to melt and further enrich the creaminess of the risotto.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve as a main dish or a side dish alongside panko chicken, roasted chicken or blackened steak. 

Expert Tips

• Use risotto rice such as Arborio or Carnaroli for its high starch content.
• Toast the rice.
• Stir the risotto gently with a wooden spoon to avoid breaking the grains and releasing excess starch.
• Keep the broth hot.
• Risotto should be rested in the pan for 2 to 3 minutes and then stirred before serving. This will do the trick to make the risotto release additional creaminess.

What to add to this creamy broccoli risotto

While Broccoli Risotto is delightful on its own, you can elevate its flavor profile by adding various ingredients. 

Here are some suggestions to make your risotto even more exciting:

• Roasted chicken, shrimp, or salmon for protein.
• Sautéed mushrooms like shitake or portobello.
• Crispy bacon or pancetta for an extra flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese.
• Cheddar cheese, for a super cheese risotto.
• Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley.

If you want to make this delicious risotto vegan, simply use vegan parmesan or any vegan cheeses and vegan butter.

CAN YOU STORE AND REHEAT THIS RECIPE?

Absolutely! If you have any leftover risotto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, place the desired portion in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the creamy consistency. Stir gently until heated through.

FAQ’s

Is risotto a pasta or rice?

Risotto is an Italian dish made with a specific type of rice. Although it may resemble a creamy pasta dish, it is indeed a rice-based preparation.

Can I make Broccoli Risotto ahead of time for a dinner party?

Risotto is best enjoyed immediately after cooking to savor its creamy texture.

However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the risotto just before serving for the freshest results.

Can I use long grain rice? 

While it will cook, long-grain rice lacks the starch needed for a creamy sauce.

Stick to short/medium varieties designed for risotto because they have a higher starch content. 

creamy broccoli risotto

CONNECT WITH THE BELLA VITA!

Be sure to follow me on social media, so you never miss a post!

Facebook  Group | Pinterest | Flipboard

More risotto recipes: 

Butternut squash risotto, perfect for fall evenings.

Tomato risotto, brings the flavors of summer inside on cooler days.

Beans risotto, meal full of fiber, protein and flavor.