Bacon Risotto Recipe
This creamy Bacon Risotto recipe features crispy bacon, tender Arborio rice, and a rich blend of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, creating a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for a hearty meal.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 rashes of bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken stock (broth)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter (optional, see notes)
- Fry Bacon: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the bacon pieces. Fry them until they become crispy and nicely browned, then remove the bacon from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and season with salt. Fry until golden. If the pan lacks enough bacon fat, add 2 tablespoons of oil or butter to help cook the onion well.
- Cook Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir well. Let the rice cook for about 1 minute until it becomes translucent, allowing it to absorb flavors and toast slightly.
- Add Stock Gradually: Pour the chicken stock one ladle at a time into the pan, stirring continuously and waiting until most of the stock has evaporated before adding the next ladle. This process helps the rice release its starch and creates a creamy texture.
- Combine Bacon: Once all the stock is absorbed and the rice is cooked through, add the crispy bacon back into the pan and mix well to combine flavors evenly.
- Season & Garnish: Season the risotto with black pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for added richness and freshness.
- Serve Hot: Serve the risotto immediately while warm to enjoy its creamy consistency and rich flavors.
Notes
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent rice from sticking and ensure the risotto cooks evenly without burning.
- If your bacon is fatty enough to leave sufficent fat in the pan, you may skip adding oil or butter for sautéing the onion.
- Stirring continuously while adding stock is key to achieving a creamy risotto texture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit bacon.
Keywords: bacon risotto, creamy risotto, Italian risotto, Arborio rice recipe, easy risotto, bacon recipe