Name: Instant Pot Risotto
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (divided); 1-1/2 cups Finely diced yellow onion (1 large); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); Salt (and pepper); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon Dried thyme (optional); 1 cup Arborio rice (see note 1); 2-1/3 cups Chicken stock (or broth, divided, see note 2); 1/2 cup Heavy cream; 1 cup Frozen peas; 1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (see note 3); 3 tablespoons Finely chopped flat-leaf parsley (or chives, optional); 1 lemon Lemon (optional)

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There’s something magical about making Instant Pot Risotto. It’s one of those recipes that takes me back to my family kitchen, where we would gather around the table, savoring creamy goodness that felt like a warm hug. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through the air, blending with the rich scent of broth, would always have me eager for a taste. I remember watching my grandmother stir the pot patiently, knowing that the best risotto takes time and love. But with the convenience of the Instant Pot, we can create that same level of comfort with a fraction of the effort. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You’ll impress everyone with its rich, creamy texture and delightful flavor, bringing the essence of Italian cuisine right to your home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
31 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
6 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

The Beauty of This Instant Pot Risotto

Convenience at Its Best

One of the primary reasons I adore Instant Pot Risotto is the time-saving aspect. Traditional risotto requires constant stirring and careful attention to achieve that creamy texture. But with the Instant Pot, you can set the timer and let the machine do the hard work for you. This means you can enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience while preparing other dishes or simply relaxing.

Creamy & Flavorful

The flavor of this risotto is something truly special. The combination of ingredients like arborio rice, chicken stock, and heavy cream creates a dish that’s luxuriously creamy and rich. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. The inclusion of Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that enhances the overall experience.

Versatility

Another reason I love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your taste. Want a little more color and nutrition? Toss in some frozen peas or spinach during the cooking process. Craving something different? Add in your favorite herbs or even some cooked chicken or shrimp. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Entertaining

When I have friends over, Instant Pot Risotto is my go-to dish. It’s impressive yet easy to prepare. The creamy texture and delicious flavors always leave a lasting impression. Plus, it allows me to enjoy time with my guests rather than being trapped in the kitchen, stirring a pot.

Comfort Food at Its Finest

At its core, risotto is comfort food, and Instant Pot Risotto embodies that spirit. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and fulfilling. The way it clings to your spoon and the first creamy bite truly feels like a warm embrace.

Fun Cooking Experience

Finally, making risotto in the Instant Pot is a fun experience! You feel like a chef as you sauté the onions and garlic, and then you get to witness the magic of the pressure cooker transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish. Each scoop is a testament to the joy of cooking.

What to Gather for Instant Pot Risotto

Gathering the right ingredients for Instant Pot Risotto is key to achieving that perfectly creamy consistency. Each component plays its part harmoniously, combining to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The star of the show, arborio rice, is essential for that classic risotto texture, while the broth adds depth and flavor. Don’t forget the cheese—it’s what makes the dish rich and unctuous. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Use unsalted to control the saltiness of your risotto.
1-1/2 cups finely diced yellow onion – A large onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
2 cloves garlic – Minced for a fragrant punch.
Salt and pepper – Essential for flavoring.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds an aromatic touch to the dish.
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme – Optional, but it complements the other flavors nicely.
1 cup arborio rice – The key ingredient for a creamy risotto.
2-1/3 cups chicken stock – The liquid base that brings everything together.
1/2 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the risotto luxuriously creamy.
1 cup frozen peas – A great way to add a pop of color and nutrition.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Essential for flavor, add it in increments for the best melting.
3 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley or chives – Optional for garnish, adds freshness.
1 lemon – Optional to brighten the flavors.

Preparation Steps for Instant Pot Risotto

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation steps for Instant Pot Risotto. The process is straightforward, and the Instant Pot makes it even more manageable. Follow along with these detailed steps for a creamy and delicious risotto.

Begin by setting your 6-quart pressure cooker to the “sauté” function. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. As it melts, you’ll be greeted by a lovely buttery aroma—this is your cue that it’s time for the next step.
Once the butter is mostly melted, throw in the diced onion and garlic. Season with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Stir frequently, watching for the onions to turn translucent, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. This is where the flavor begins to build.
Next, mix in the Italian seasoning and optional dried thyme. Stir them into the onion and garlic mixture for about a minute, allowing the herbs to release their flavors. Then, add the uncooked arborio rice and stir it constantly for about 1 minute. This step helps toast the rice and enhances its flavor.
Pour in 1/3 cup of chicken stock and scrape the pot’s bottom gently to release any browned bits. This is crucial to prevent a “burn” warning later. Cook for one more minute until the liquid evaporates, creating a rich base.
Now, add the remaining 2 cups of chicken stock. Give it a good stir, ensuring all the rice is submerged in the liquid. Press “cancel” to stop the sauté function.
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the knob to “sealed.” Select the manual setting and adjust the timer to cook for 6 minutes. The pot will take a few moments to come to pressure, but soon you’ll be on your way to creamy risotto.
Once the 6 minutes are up, immediately release the pressure by venting the knob. Open the pressure cooker carefully as soon as the pressure is fully released. Do not let it sit to avoid overcooking the rice.
Remove the Instant Pot insert and place it on a heating pad or trivet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring until it’s fully melted. Stir in the heavy cream until incorporated, which will make the risotto incredibly creamy.
Next, gently fold in the frozen peas and stir for about 30 seconds to warm them through. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese in 2 to 3 tablespoon increments, stirring gently to allow it to melt into the rice.
If desired, add chopped parsley and 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon juice for a bright finish. Taste and adjust seasonings; usually, I add another 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Your risotto should now have a porridge-like consistency, perfect for serving immediately. If it feels too thick, simply add a splash more of cream. Spoon it into serving bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Pressure Cooking Tip: Always ensure the liquid covers the rice to prevent it from burning during cooking.
Texture Awareness: If your risotto seems too thick after cooking, add a little more stock or cream to adjust the consistency.
Flavor Boost: For an added depth of flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
Serving Suggestion: Risotto is best served immediately; if you have leftovers, reheat gently on the stove with a little broth.

Ways to Customize

One of the best things about Instant Pot Risotto is how customizable it can be. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding fresh spinach or diced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed sausage for a heartier meal.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance your risotto with a fresh taste.
Sauce Option: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over your risotto just before serving for a sweet tang.
Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan is traditional, trying Gorgonzola or ricotta can add unique flavors.
Make it Vegan: Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and use non-dairy cream for a vegan version.

Great Combinations for Instant Pot Risotto

Serving Instant Pot Risotto opens up a world of delicious pairings that can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:

Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast pairs beautifully, adding protein and flavor without overwhelming the risotto.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can add color and nutrition, making for a well-rounded meal.
Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy risotto.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up any extra risotto.
Wine Pairing: While I don’t recommend specific wines, a light, crisp white or fruity red can complement the flavors nicely.
Festive Occasions: This dish makes a great centerpiece for holidays or family gatherings, adding a touch of elegance to your table.

FAQ

While arborio rice is the traditional choice for risotto due to its high starch content, you can try using other short-grain varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano. However, these substitutes may not yield the same creamy texture as arborio. If you’re adventurous, you can even experiment with farro or barley, but the cooking times will vary significantly. Just remember that the key to a great risotto is the starch released from the rice during cooking, so stick to short-grain varieties for the best results!

To achieve a creamier risotto, you can add more heavy cream or butter towards the end of cooking. Incorporating cheese gradually as you stir also enhances creaminess. Additionally, ensure that you’re using high-quality chicken stock, as this will contribute to the flavor and texture. If your risotto thickens too much while sitting, add a splash of broth or cream when serving to restore its silky consistency. Lastly, remember to stir well; this helps release more starch from the rice, resulting in that rich, creamy texture!

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it in advance. Cook the risotto according to the recipe, but consider stopping just short of the ideal creamy consistency. When you’re ready to serve, add a splash of stock or cream and heat it gently while stirring until it reaches the desired texture. Store cooked risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just be aware that reheated risotto may not be as creamy as when freshly made, so adding more liquid during reheating is crucial!

There are plenty of ingredients you can add to enhance the flavor of your risotto! Consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms, roasted garlic, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme. You can also add cooked vegetables like asparagus or peas for a pop of color and nutrition. For a protein boost, try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with flavors can lead to delightful surprises!

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Risotto is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it a must-try for any home cook. With its creamy texture and rich taste, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to give it a go and enjoy the comforting warmth it brings to the table. You’ll find that with this recipe, cooking can be both simple and delightful!