Risotto is one of those dishes that sounds fancy but is really all about comfort. Whether you’re stirring it slowly on the stove or speeding things up with an Instant Pot, risotto delivers a creamy texture and deep flavor that’s hard to beat. This list covers both traditional and modern versions, with rice, farro, or even cauliflower, and a wide range of add-ins like mushrooms, chicken, shrimp, squash, and more. Some versions lean rich and hearty, while others stay light with vegetables or heat from jalapeño, but they all hit that balance of simple ingredients and bold payoff.
Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
Savory sausage and tender mushrooms give this risotto a deep, rich flavor. The rice absorbs all the goodness from the pan, turning creamy as it cooks. It’s filling and satisfying without needing much on the side. A full meal in one pot.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
Slow Cooker Shrimp, Farro, and Tomato Risotto
This version swaps in farro for a nutty, chewy texture and uses the slow cooker to bring it all together. The shrimp and tomatoes add brightness and depth. It’s low effort but still layered with flavor. Great for letting dinner cook itself.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shrimp, Farro, and Tomato Risotto
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms
Riced cauliflower steps in for the grains in this low-carb take. Mushrooms give it that hearty, umami-rich flavor. It’s creamy and comforting without being too heavy. Quick to make and easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms
Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto
Creamy risotto gets a kick from chopped jalapeños, bringing heat to every bite. The Instant Pot takes care of the stirring. It’s bold, rich, and ready fast. A good pick when you want something with a little edge.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto
Instant Pot Farro Risotto
This version uses farro for a more toothsome bite, cooked under pressure for a fast finish. The result is hearty and slightly nutty. It’s a great base for vegetables or cheese. A twist that still keeps all the creaminess.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Farro Risotto
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A classic version that leans on mushrooms for flavor and richness. The mushrooms get sautéed first to build depth, then folded into the rice. Finished with butter and cheese. Timeless for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Basic Risotto
Just Arborio rice, broth, butter, and cheese, no extras needed. This is the base version that gets the texture right. It’s simple but full of flavor. Good on its own or as a starting point for mix-ins.
Get the Recipe: Basic Risotto
Butternut Squash Risotto
The squash melts into the rice, giving the dish color and sweetness without overpowering. Each bite is smooth and balanced. A little sage or parmesan on top pulls it all together. A fall favorite that works any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto
Chicken and Pea Risotto
This one combines tender chicken with green peas for a familiar, comforting mix. It’s mild, creamy, and great for families or picky eaters. Good for using up leftovers too. A solid everyday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Pea Risotto
Farro Risotto
This base version of farro risotto is nutty, creamy, and endlessly flexible. It’s more toothsome than rice but still smooth. Add vegetables, cheese, or herbs to change it up. A solid foundation for any kind of dinner.
Get the Recipe: Farro Risotto
