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Tomato Risotto

Creamy Tomato Risotto for Cozy Nights In

This creamy tomato risotto is a comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Risotto Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Provides fat for sautéing and flavor; substitute with butter for a richer taste.
  • 1.5 cups White Onion, diced Essential for depth of flavor; use shallots for a milder option.
  • 6 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; can be replaced with garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
  • 2.5 teaspoons Tomato Paste Intensifies the tomato flavor; swap for homemade tomato purée if desired.
  • 2 cups Fresh Tomatoes, diced The star of the dish; heirloom is best, but roma or cherry tomatoes work too.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme, chopped Adds a lovely herbal note; oregano or basil can substitute for a different twist.
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice The key to creamy risotto; try Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice for variety.
  • 0.5 cups Dry White Wine Elevates flavor depth; Sauvignon Blanc is a good choice; omit for a non-alcoholic alternative.
  • 5 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Forms the base; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
For the Cheesy Finish
  • 0.5 cups Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated Adds savory richness; pecorino is a sharp alternative.
  • 0.25 cups Pecorino Romano, grated Contributes a salty, tangy kick; leave it out for a milder flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Enhances creaminess; can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 0.25 cups Mascarpone Elevates creaminess; cream cheese can work as a substitute.
For the Fresh Touch
  • 1.5 tablespoons Fresh Basil, chopped Brightens the dish; parsley can be used for a different herb profile.
  • Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste throughout your cooking.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Ladle

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, add 5 cups of low sodium chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to keep the broth simmering gently.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1½ cups of diced white onion and sauté for about 6 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Next, add 6 minced garlic cloves, stirring them in for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in 2½ teaspoons of tomato paste, mixing well with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of Arborio rice, stirring frequently for about 3 to 4 minutes until some grains begin to appear translucent. Add in 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme, mixing thoroughly.
  5. Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine, stirring continuously until it reduces by half for around 3-5 minutes.
  6. Begin adding the simmering broth one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed, which will take about 30 minutes.
  7. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, ¼ cup of grated Pecorino Romano, ¼ cup of mascarpone, and 1 tablespoon of butter until everything is melted and combined.
  8. Transfer the risotto to shallow bowls while it's still warm. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional grated parmesan cheese on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This flavorful Tomato Risotto is a creamy hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings!

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