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; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

Discover the ease of making risotto in the oven with this delicious recipe featuring crispy mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:03:19.981Z

This Oven Risotto with Crispy Mushrooms is a game changer for those who love creamy risotto but dread the constant stirring. This method allows you to enjoy a rich and flavorful dish with minimal effort!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture without the hassle of stirring
Savory crispy mushrooms add a delightful crunch
Perfectly cooked risotto every time with minimal effort

      

The Magic of Oven-Baked Risotto

Making risotto can often feel daunting, with its traditional stovetop method requiring constant stirring. However, this oven-baked version simplifies the process while still delivering that luxurious, creamy texture risotto lovers crave. By allowing the rice to cook evenly in the oven, you can enjoy a hands-free approach that frees you up to prepare other dishes or simply relax while it bakes.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors by incorporating seasonal vegetables or using different types of broth. Each variation offers a unique twist on the classic risotto, making it a fantastic dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Crispy Mushrooms: A Flavorful Addition

Crispy mushrooms not only add a delightful crunch to your oven risotto but also infuse it with an earthy flavor that complements the creamy rice beautifully. Roasting the mushrooms in the oven intensifies their flavor, creating a savory topping that contrasts perfectly with the rich risotto base. This combination elevates the dish, making it feel gourmet without the need for extensive culinary skills.

Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, or oyster, to discover which flavors you enjoy best. Each variety brings its own unique taste profile, allowing you to tailor the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Oven risotto with crispy mushrooms is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the risotto. Alternatively, grilled vegetables or a simple roasted chicken can create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

For those who enjoy wine, a glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors of the risotto beautifully. Whether you prefer a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a creamy Chardonnay, the right wine can enhance your dining experience, making it even more memorable.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

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

For the Crispy Mushrooms

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

Ensure all ingredients are fresh 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 out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20 minutes or until crispy.

Cook the Risotto

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

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed.

Combine and Bake

Add the vegetable broth to the pot, stir well, and bring to a gentle boil. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.

Finish the Risotto

Remove the pot from the oven, stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Serve

Top the risotto with the crispy mushrooms before serving. Enjoy your delicious, oven-baked risotto!

For best results, serve immediately while the risotto is creamy.

Tips for Perfect Risotto

To ensure your oven risotto turns out perfectly every time, remember to use high-quality Arborio rice. This type of rice is specifically designed for risotto, with a higher starch content that contributes to its creamy consistency. Avoid rinsing the rice, as this will wash away the starch that helps create the desired texture.

Monitor the cooking time closely, as ovens can vary. If you find that the risotto isn't as creamy as you'd like after 25 minutes, feel free to add a bit more broth and return it to the oven for a few extra minutes. The goal is to achieve a luscious, tender rice with a slight bite.

Making It Ahead

One of the great advantages of this oven risotto recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the risotto base in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven, adding a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture.

The crispy mushrooms can also be made ahead of time. Just keep them stored in an airtight container, and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to regain their crunch. This makes it easy to serve a delicious meal on busy nights or for entertaining guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

It's recommended to use Arborio rice for its creamy texture, but you can experiment with other short-grain rice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

→ What can I serve with risotto?

This risotto pairs well with a simple salad or grilled vegetables.