Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish to embrace the essence of autumn. Enter the Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto—a delightful blend of creamy risotto, earthy mushrooms, and fresh, vibrant spinach that captures the heart of the season in every bite.
This dish not only embraces the rich flavors of fall but also honors your time in the kitchen. With a simple one-pan method, you can savor the complexity of flavors without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. The mushrooms lend a savory umami punch, while the spinach adds a pop of green and essential nutrients. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a warm gathering for friends and family.
Packed with warmth and heartiness, this risotto is the ideal way to celebrate the bounty of autumn. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find that this recipe is approachable, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this comforting culinary journey!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your favorite variety)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling.
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- In a large skillet or a wide pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
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- Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.
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- Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring to toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly translucent around the edges.
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- If using wine, pour in the white wine and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it has mostly evaporated.
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- Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, to the rice mixture. Stir often and allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
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- When the rice is almost done, fold in the chopped spinach, dried thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the risotto is creamy.
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- Remove the pan from heat, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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- Serve the risotto warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Arborio Rice: The star of the dish, this short-grain rice is perfect for creating that creamy texture in risotto.
- Mushrooms: Use a mix of your favorites, such as cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms, for added depth of flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: This leafy green adds a vibrant color and nutritional boost to the dish.
- Vegetable Broth: Use homemade or store-bought low-sodium vegetable broth for a flavorful base.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion provides a savory foundation to the risotto.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant touch and enhances the overall flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and a nutty flavor; consider using a vegan alternative if desired.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables and adds a rich flavor.
- White Wine: Adds acidity and depth; choose a dry white wine for best results.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked for seasoning; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Such as thyme or parsley, for an aromatic finish that complements the dish.
Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings or additional vegetables as preferred!
Baking Process
Creating a creamy and comforting Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto is surprisingly simple and requires only a few steps. Follow this guide to ensure your risotto is perfectly cooked and infused with flavor:
Ingredients Preparation
- Mushrooms: Clean and slice the mushrooms. I recommend using a mix of cremini and shiitake for a depth of flavor.
- Onion & Garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. These aromatics will be the foundation of your risotto’s flavor.
- Spinach: Wash and roughly chop the spinach if using fresh. If using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and drained.
- Stock: Have your vegetable or chicken stock ready and keep it warm on the stove; this helps the rice cook evenly.
Cooking the Risotto
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
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Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add Arborio Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice to the mushroom mixture, coating the grains in the oil and letting them toast lightly for about 2-3 minutes. This step helps to develop a nuttier flavor.
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Deglaze with Wine: Pour in half a cup of dry white wine, if using, and let it simmer. Stir continuously until the wine has mostly evaporated, allowing the rice to absorb the complex flavors.
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Add Stock Gradually: Begin adding the warm stock to the rice, one ladle at a time. Stir regularly and wait until the liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process will take about 18-20 minutes. The rice should be creamy and al dente when done.
Final Touches
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Incorporate Spinach: When the rice is cooked to your desired texture, fold in the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and brightens, adding a pop of color and nutrients.
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Add Cheese & Season: Remove the pan from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for richness. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. You may also add a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
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Serve: Transfer the risotto to bowls and garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, additional Parmesan, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for a vibrant finish.
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto, perfect for a chilly evening! This dish not only fills your belly but also wraps you in the warmth of autumn flavours.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto, consider these delicious serving suggestions:
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Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra creamy and nutty flavor boost.
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Toasted Pine Nuts: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy risotto.
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Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, thyme, or sage add a burst of brightness and flavor. A little chiffonade of basil also works wonders.
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Side Salad: Pair your risotto with a light arugula or mixed green salad drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
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Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side to scoop up the risotto and add a satisfying texture.
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Wine Pairing: Consider a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, to complement the earthiness of the mushrooms.
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Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, can make the meal even heartier and add vibrancy.
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Fried Egg: For a brunch twist, top each serving with a fried or poached egg. The runny yolk adds richness and elevates the dish.
These serving suggestions will not only enhance the flavors of your risotto but also create a warm and inviting dining experience perfect for autumn gatherings!
Conclusion
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto to embrace the flavors of the season. This dish not only warms you from the inside out but also fills your kitchen with the inviting aroma of sautéed mushrooms and garlic, reminiscent of fall foliage and cozy evenings.
With its creamy consistency, rich umami flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this risotto is both satisfying and nourishing. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—all cooked in one pan, making clean-up a breeze and allowing you to savor every last bite without the hassle of multiple dishes.
Feel free to customize it with your favorite autumn vegetables or add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor. Whether served as a hearty weeknight meal or on a chilly weekend, this risotto is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. So grab your favorite spoon, cozy up, and enjoy the delicious embrace of autumn!
