Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto

This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto is the perfect balance of bright citrus and rich, cheesy goodness. The velvety texture and fresh lemon zest create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this risotto is a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home!

Ingredients: Serves 4-6

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
• 1 cup water, warmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional, sub with extra broth)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add the shallot and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice and stir, coating it in the oil. Toast for 1-2 minutes until the edges become slightly translucent.
3. Deglaze: Pour in the white wine and stir until mostly absorbed, about 2 minutes.
4. Cook the risotto: Add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and creamy.
5. Finish with flavor: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, remaining butter, and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve & garnish: Remove from heat and let sit for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something special about risotto—it turns simple pantry ingredients into an elegant, creamy masterpiece. This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto brings a refreshing twist to a classic dish with its bright lemon flavor and rich, cheesy finish. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, making it a standout side or even a main dish.

Best of all, you don’t need to be a professional chef to master risotto. By adding warm broth gradually and stirring gently, you’ll achieve that signature creamy texture without heavy cream (though we won’t say no to an extra splash for richness). Serve it alongside roasted chicken, seafood, or enjoy it on its own with a glass of crisp white wine. One bite, and you’ll see why this dish is a staple in Italian cuisine—now made easy for your own kitchen!