Pumpkin and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
Introduction
This Pumpkin and Mushroom Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for cozy evenings. With rich pumpkin puree and earthy mushrooms, it offers a lovely balance of flavors that make it both hearty and elegant.

Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the pumpkin puree and mushrooms, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
- Step 6: Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Step 7: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 8: Garnish with fresh sage leaves and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, sauté mushrooms separately until golden before adding them to the risotto.
- Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor, if not strictly vegetarian.
- Add a splash of white wine before the broth for a subtle acidity and complexity.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for a brighter, fresher taste during pumpkin season.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the risotto on the stove with a splash of broth or water, stirring until creamy again. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for risotto?
Arborio rice is preferred due to its high starch content that creates the creamy texture risotto is known for. Using other rice types may not yield the same creaminess.
How do I know when the risotto is done?
The risotto is ready when the rice is tender but still slightly firm to the bite, and the overall texture is creamy, not dry or soupy.
Print
Pumpkin and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and comforting Pumpkin and Mushroom Risotto combining the earthiness of mushrooms with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin puree, enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh sage.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. This step helps the rice release its starch for a creamy risotto texture.
- Add Pumpkin and Mushrooms: Incorporate the pumpkin puree and sliced mushrooms into the rice. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Gradually Add Broth: Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time. Stir continuously and wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process should be repeated until the rice is tender and creamy, which usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to incorporate the cheese fully into the creamy risotto.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the risotto with fresh sage leaves for an aromatic finish. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Use warm vegetable broth to keep the cooking temperature consistent and help the rice cook evenly.
- Stir frequently but gently to prevent the rice from sticking and to achieve the desired creamy texture.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- If fresh sage is unavailable, dried sage can be used sparingly or substituted with fresh thyme for garnish.
- Adjust seasoning gradually to taste, especially adding salt after the cheese since Parmesan is salty.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: pumpkin risotto, mushroom risotto, vegetarian risotto, creamy risotto, Italian comfort food

