Champagne Risotto with Parmesan

Name: Champagne Risotto with Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup champagne; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Inspiration

I love making Champagne Risotto with Parmesan for special occasions or when I just want to treat myself to something luxurious. The creamy texture of the risotto, combined with the subtle effervescence of champagne, creates a wonderfully indulgent dish. I find that using a good quality champagne really elevates the flavor profile, while the parmesan adds a rich, savory depth. It's a dish that impresses guests while also being surprisingly straightforward to prepare when you have a little patience.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:37:39.841Z

When I first created this Champagne Risotto, I wanted to combine elegance with comfort food. I'm always amazed at how the addition of champagne transforms a simple risotto into something celebratory. The bubbles and acidity from the champagne cut through the creaminess, giving each bite a beautiful balance. I've found that slowly stirring the rice while gradually adding the broth enhances the dish's creaminess and gives it that perfect velvety texture.

One tip I can't stress enough is to use warm broth as you add it to the rice. Cold broth shocks the rice and halts the cooking process, preventing that lovely creamy consistency we all admire in risotto. I love serving this with freshly grated parmesan on top for added richness and flavor. It’s a dish that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The unique flavor of champagne elevates the classic risotto experience.
Creamy texture paired with savory parmesan makes it utterly satisfying.
Perfect for serving at dinner parties or enjoying as a special treat.

Understanding Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice is crucial in achieving the creamy texture that defines risotto. This short-grain rice is high in amylopectin, a type of starch that releases during cooking, helping to create that desired creamy consistency. When cooked, each grain should remain slightly firm in the center, which is known as 'al dente.' Make sure to avoid rinsing the rice before cooking, as that will wash away the starch that contributes to the creaminess of the dish.

If you can’t find Arborio rice, consider using Carnaroli or Vialone Nano as alternatives. Both have similar characteristics and will yield a comparable texture. However, note that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on their doneness as you stir and add broth during the cooking process.

Choosing the Right Champagne

The choice of champagne is essential in this recipe as it significantly influences the final flavor of the risotto. Opt for a dry champagne, such as a Brut, which will lend a balanced acidity to the dish without overpowering the creamy notes. You don’t have to splurge on a top-shelf bottle, but avoid the very inexpensive sparkling wines, as they may contain added sugars that can alter the taste.

If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, consider using a high-quality sparkling grape juice or a flavored sparkling water. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may not impart the same depth of flavor as champagne. Adjusting the broth slightly to maintain balance can help achieve a satisfying taste profile.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Stirring constantly when adding broth is essential to develop the creamy texture risotto is known for. This motion encourages the rice to release its starches while preventing it from sticking to the pan. It is helpful to keep the heat at a medium-low setting to avoid scorching the rice, which can result in an unpleasant burnt flavor.

If you find your risotto becoming too thick before it is fully cooked, add warm broth in smaller increments to maintain creaminess while ensuring the rice is tender. Each ladle should be almost fully absorbed before adding the next, allowing you to control the final texture more effectively.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Champagne Risotto with Parmesan:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup champagne
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Champagne Risotto:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.

Add the Champagne

Pour in the champagne and let it simmer until mostly absorbed, stirring constantly.

Incorporate the Broth

Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until each addition is nearly absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is al dente.

Finish with Cheese and Butter

Once the rice is cooked to your liking, remove from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the luxurious flavors of your Champagne Risotto!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure your broth is kept warm on a low simmer while you cook the risotto. This ensures a consistent cooking temperature and helps the rice release its starches effectively.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover Champagne Risotto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, be aware that the rice will continue to absorb moisture and lose its creamy texture over time. To reheat, add a splash of warm broth or water to the risotto and stir over medium heat until heated through, adjusting the consistency as needed.

For those looking to prepare ahead of time, risotto is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can cook the base (without cheese and butter) and store it. When ready to serve, simply reheat and finish with the butter and Parmesan to restore that creamy richness.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Champagne Risotto experience, consider pairing it with a light salad of arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the richness of the risotto beautifully and provide a refreshing contrast. You could also serve it alongside grilled shrimp or scallops, offering a lovely seafood contrast that pairs well with the luxurious flavors of this dish.

For an extra touch of luxury, top the finished risotto with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture. Fresh herbs, such as chives or basil, can also enhance the dish's visual appeal and flavor, making it more inviting for guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of wine instead of champagne?

Yes, you can use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, but the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Is it possible to make risotto vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

→ How do I prevent my risotto from becoming gluey?

Stir the rice gently and avoid overcooking it. The right texture should be creamy and al dente.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Risotto is best served fresh; however, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently, adding a little broth if needed.