Oven Risotto with Crispy Mushrooms

Name: Oven Risotto with Crispy Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

Experience the creamy goodness of risotto baked to perfection, topped with crispy mushrooms for an added crunch.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T21:06:17.891Z

This delicious oven risotto combines the creaminess of traditional risotto with the convenience of baking, making it an excellent choice for a cozy dinner.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Crispy mushrooms add a delightful contrast
Easy to make with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Magic of Oven-Baked Risotto

Oven-baked risotto is a game-changer for those who love the creamy texture of traditional risotto but don’t want to stand by the stove stirring for 30 minutes. This method allows you to infuse all the flavors into the rice while it cooks evenly in the oven. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve that luxurious, creamy consistency without the usual worry of overcooking or burning the rice.

With just a few ingredients and a single pot, you can create a comforting meal that feels gourmet. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily swap in different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste or dietary needs. Plus, the oven does most of the work for you, giving you more time to enjoy the company of your family or guests.

Crispy Mushrooms: The Perfect Topping

The addition of crispy mushrooms elevates this oven risotto from delightful to extraordinary. Roasting the mushrooms enhances their natural umami flavor, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy risotto. Using a mix of different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, can add depth to the dish and make it even more delicious.

These crispy toppers not only provide texture but also introduce an earthy element that complements the richness of the risotto perfectly. They're incredibly easy to prepare, and their irresistible crunch will have everyone reaching for seconds. This combination of creamy and crispy is sure to impress at any dinner table.

A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

This oven risotto with crispy mushrooms is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for those who want to prepare a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. A side salad or some steamed vegetables can round out the meal, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Additionally, leftovers of this dish reheat beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can enjoy the comforting flavors all week long, whether for lunch or dinner. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crispy Mushrooms

2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Mushrooms

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the sliced mushrooms with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until crispy.

Cook the Risotto

In a large, oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.

Add Broth and Bake

Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Remove from the oven and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Top with crispy mushrooms right before serving.

Enjoy your delicious oven risotto with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired!

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

One of the best aspects of this oven risotto is its versatility. If you don’t have Arborio rice, you can substitute with other short-grain rice varieties, although Arborio is preferred for its creamy texture. For a vegan version, simply replace Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth without dairy.

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, or spinach to add color and nutrition to your dish. You can also incorporate proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp, making this risotto a well-rounded meal that caters to various dietary preferences.

Tips for Perfect Risotto

To ensure your risotto turns out creamy every time, it’s essential to use warm broth. Adding cold broth will shock the rice and disrupt the cooking process, resulting in uneven texture. Keep your broth on a low simmer while you prepare the risotto to maintain a consistent temperature.

Additionally, resist the urge to stir the rice too much while it bakes in the oven. This recipe is designed to allow the rice to absorb the flavors without constant attention. Just a gentle stir before serving will help incorporate the cheese and toppings, resulting in a perfect creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider serving your oven risotto in shallow bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest can also enhance the flavors beautifully.

Pair this dish with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the richness of the risotto. A crisp green salad on the side can balance the meal and provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish, making it a complete dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with any cheese you prefer, like Gruyère or Pecorino.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the broth used is vegetable-based.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables such as peas, asparagus, or spinach for added nutrition.