17 Creamy Risottos I Always Want a Second Bowl Of

Risotto gets a bad rap for being fussy, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re stirring it on the stovetop or letting the Instant Pot take over, this creamy rice dish can go from simple to luxurious with just a few ingredients. These recipes show off risotto’s range—from earthy mushroom blends to fresh seafood pairings and bold flavors like jalapeño or French onion. If you’re looking for something cozy that still feels a little elevated, these risottos hit the mark.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

A classic comfort dish loaded with tender mushrooms and rich, creamy arborio rice. The flavor builds slowly as you stir in broth and finish with butter and Parmesan. It’s warm, earthy, and deeply satisfying. A great starter or main course on chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Riced cauliflower stands in for traditional rice in this lower-carb version. It still gets creamy from cheese and mushrooms, just without the starch. The texture is soft with a little bite. A lighter take that still delivers.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Risotto with Peas and Lemon

This risotto is fresh and bright with sweet green peas and lemon zest. It’s creamy without feeling too heavy. A bit of grated Parmesan finishes it off. Ideal for when you want something lighter but still cozy.
Get the Recipe: Risotto with Peas and Lemon

Parmesan Risotto

Simple and to the point, this recipe focuses on the basics: arborio rice, good broth, and plenty of cheese. The result is silky, creamy, and easy to dress up with anything. It’s a base for endless variations. But it also stands just fine on its own.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Risotto

Sausage and Mushroom Risotto

Savory sausage and sautéed mushrooms give this risotto deep flavor and a hearty texture. The rice soaks up all the fat and seasoning. It’s filling enough to be a full meal. Perfect with a green salad on the side.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Mushroom Risotto

Instant Pot Farro Risotto

Farro adds a nutty, chewy texture and holds up well under pressure cooking. It still gets creamy like traditional risotto but with a deeper bite. The Instant Pot makes it quick. Works well with mushrooms or greens.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Farro Risotto

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Tender shrimp and crisp asparagus turn this risotto into a full seafood dish. It’s light but creamy, with bright lemon or herbs tying it together. Everything cooks quickly and evenly. Best served immediately while still hot.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Butternut Squash Risotto

Roasted squash blends into the rice, giving the dish sweetness and color. A hint of sage or nutmeg brings out the fall flavors. It’s creamy, soft, and warming. A seasonal classic that feels right every time.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

Basic Risotto

This is your go-to for mastering the technique: arborio rice, hot broth, and slow stirring. Once you get it right, the variations are endless. Finish with butter and cheese for extra creaminess. A blank slate that always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Basic Risotto

Slow Cooker Shrimp, Farro, and Tomato Risotto

The slow cooker handles the farro, tomatoes, and broth while you go about your day. Shrimp gets stirred in at the end. It’s warm, comforting, and slightly tangy from the tomatoes. A set-it-and-forget-it option that still feels fresh.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shrimp, Farro, and Tomato Risotto

Risotto Shrimp Scampi

Classic shrimp scampi flavors—garlic, lemon, butter—folded into creamy rice. The shrimp stay juicy, and the rice picks up all the flavor. Bright and rich at the same time. It’s a seafood dish that feels both elegant and fast.
Get the Recipe: Risotto Shrimp Scampi

Tomato Zucchini Risotto

Tomato adds tang while zucchini softens and blends into the rice. It’s a fresh, slightly sweet combo that works well in late summer or fall. The rice pulls it all together into something creamy and smooth. Serve warm or room temp.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Zucchini Risotto

Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto

This one brings heat thanks to chopped jalapeños cooked into the rice. The Instant Pot keeps the texture smooth while locking in flavor. Finish with cheese to balance the spice. Great with grilled meats or as a bold side.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto

Shrimp Risotto

A simple seafood risotto where the shrimp are the star. The rice gets creamy and the shrimp stay firm and juicy. Add a splash of lemon or white wine to brighten it up. A classic that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Risotto

The BEST Creamy Mushroom Risotto

This version doubles down on mushrooms—sautéed, simmered, and blended into the rice. It’s creamy, savory, and deeply rich. Finishing with a splash of cream or truffle oil takes it even further. A favorite for good reason.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Farro Risotto

Nutty farro replaces rice in this twist on tradition. It holds up better and has more texture while still getting creamy with cheese and broth. Add herbs or roasted veggies to customize. A great base for cold-weather bowls.
Get the Recipe: Farro Risotto

The Best Instant Pot Pumpkin Risotto Recipe

This fall-ready risotto is creamy, spiced, and full of pumpkin flavor. The pressure cooker makes it easy. Add sage or pancetta for extra depth. It’s a warm, seasonal dish that goes fast.
Get the Recipe: The Best Instant Pot Pumpkin Risotto Recipe