Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a comforting meal to usher in the coziest season of all. Enter: Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto. This dish embodies the essence of fall, featuring earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in creamy, dreamy arborio rice.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; it’s a one-pan wonder that requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The slow-cooked, stirring process allows the rice to coax out its starch, creating that signature risotto creaminess that wraps around each grain. With the addition of umami-rich mushrooms and nutrient-packed spinach, you’ll not only savor every bite but also indulge in the hearty, wholesome goodness that autumn has to offer.
Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this risotto pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a slice of crusty bread. So, gather your favorite ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and let the comforting aromas transport you to a pumpkin patch or a scenic fall trail—this risotto is sure to become a seasonal staple in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your choice)
- 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 more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- In a medium saucepan, warm the vegetable broth over low heat, keeping it at a gentle simmer without boiling.
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- In a large skillet or wide pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for around 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent.
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- Mix in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their juices.
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- Incorporate the Arborio rice, stirring to toast it for about 1-2 minutes until it starts to become slightly translucent on the edges.
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- If using wine, add the white wine and let it cook down, stirring occasionally, until it’s mostly evaporated.
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- Start incorporating the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, into the rice mixture. Stir frequently and let the rice absorb the broth before adding more. Keep this going for about 18-20 minutes until the rice reaches a creamy and al dente texture.
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- As the rice nears completion, mix in the chopped spinach, dried thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the risotto is creamy.
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- Take the pan off the heat, then mix in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly blended. Taste and make any necessary adjustments to the seasoning.
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- Serve the risotto warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Arborio Rice – This short-grain rice is essential for achieving that creamy texture characteristic of risotto.
- Mushrooms – Fresh cremini or shiitake mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor.
- Fresh Spinach – Adds color and a nutrient boost, wilting perfectly into the simmering risotto.
- Vegetable Broth – Use low-sodium vegetable broth for a flavorful base.
- Onion – A finely chopped onion provides a savory depth to the dish.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a fragrant aroma and enhances the umami flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan cheese stirred in at the end creates a creamy finish; you can substitute with a plant-based cheese for a vegan version.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the onions and mushrooms, enhancing the overall flavor.
- White Wine – A splash of white wine adds acidity and complexity (optional).
- Fresh Herbs – Such as thyme or parsley for garnish, adding freshness right before serving.
Gather these key ingredients to create a warm and comforting one-pan risotto perfect for cozy autumn evenings!
Baking Process
Creating a Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto is not only straightforward but also rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your risotto comes out creamy and delicious every time!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Preheat Your Pan: Start by heating your large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant without browning.
Step 2: Toast the Arborio Rice
- Add Rice: Stir in 1 cup of Arborio rice, ensuring it gets coated in the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly transparent, which enhances its flavor and texture.
Step 3: Deglaze with Broth
- Add Wine (optional): If you’re using white wine, pour in ½ cup to deglaze the pan, scraping any bits off the bottom for added flavor. Allow the wine to absorb for about a minute.
- Introduce Broth: Gradually add 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the broth to be fully absorbed before adding the next cup. This will take about 20 – 25 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Mushrooms and Spinach
- Add Mushrooms: When you add the last cup of broth, toss in 2 cups of sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms). Stir well, allowing them to soften and meld into the risotto.
- Fold in Spinach: Just before the risotto reaches your desired creamy consistency (around the 20-minute mark), stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts but retains its vibrant green color.
Step 5: Finish Off the Risotto
- Add Seasoning: Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for that warm autumnal flavor.
- Stir in Cheese: For that extra creaminess, mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese or a vegan alternative. Stir until melted and well combined.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish: Top your risotto with additional grated cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh touch.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, ideally in warmed bowls. This risotto is perfect as a comforting meal on a chilly autumn evening.
Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving—this risotto is all about achieving that perfect depth of flavor. Enjoy your cozy autumn dish!
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Cozy Autumn One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto with these delightful serving suggestions that will complement the comforting flavors of the dish:
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Parmesan Shavings: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of richness and a lovely salty contrast to the creamy risotto. For a twist, try using aged Parmesan for a more complex flavor.
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Fresh Herbs: Finish your dish with a handful of freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, thyme, or basil. Not only do they add vibrant color, but they also infuse a fresh aroma that brightens the entire meal.
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Toasted Nuts: Add a crunch factor by sprinkling some toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds over the top. They provide a delightful texture contrast and enhance the nutty flavors of the mushrooms.
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Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the risotto before serving. The sweet and tangy notes will perfectly complement the earthiness of the mushrooms and the richness of the dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. The caramelized flavor of roasted veggies pairs beautifully with the creamy risotto.
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A Side Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm and creamy risotto.
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Crusty Bread: Pair your risotto with some warm, crusty bread or a buttery baguette. Perfect for scooping up every creamy bite and adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
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Wine Pairing: For those who enjoy a nice glass of wine, consider pairing your risotto with a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc, which can enhance the mushroom flavors without overpowering the dish.
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Extra Spinach: For a pop of color and additional nutrients, serve with a side of sautéed or steamed spinach, simply seasoned with garlic and olive oil.
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Soft-Cooked Egg: For a more indulgent touch, top each serving with a soft-cooked egg. When broken, the yolk adds a luscious creaminess that takes the risotto to the next level.
These serving suggestions not only enhance the visual appeal of your dish but also provide varied textures and flavors to create a comforting and satisfying autumn meal. Enjoy your cozy feast!
Conclusion
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of risotto to embrace the cozy vibes of autumn. This One-Pan Mushroom & Spinach Risotto not only celebrates the heartiness of seasonal ingredients but also makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to savor every moment. The creamy texture combined with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the vibrant freshness of spinach creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or serving it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of luxury, or keep it vegan by omitting the cheese and using vegetable broth. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional veggies—after all, risotto is as versatile as it is delicious!
So gather around the table and indulge in this hearty, heartwarming dish that captures the essence of fall. Happy cooking, and may your autumn be filled with warmth and joy!
