Risotto alla milanese homemade

January 17, 2026

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risotto alla milanese

Risotto alla milanese: creamy, aromatic saffron risotto for comfort and elegance. Discover how to prepare this authentic Italian classic.

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Total Time 41

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 370

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1.5 cup arborio rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small onion finely chopped
0.5 cup dry white wine
4 cup vegetable broth
0.25 teaspoon saffron threads
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.25 teaspoon salt or to taste
0.13 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Method

In a saucepan, warm the vegetable broth over low heat and add the saffron threads, letting them infuse while you prepare the rice.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and half the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add the arborio rice and stir well for 1-2 minutes, making sure every grain is coated with fat and slightly toasted.
Pour in the white wine and stir until most of the liquid has evaporated.
Add one ladle of the hot saffron-infused broth to the rice. Stir constantly and, as soon as the liquid is almost absorbed, add another ladle of broth.
Continue adding broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, until the rice is creamy and al dente. This will take about 18-20 minutes in total.
Turn off the heat, stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Risotto alla milanese is one of the most iconic comfort dishes, never failing to impress with its unique golden hue and decadent, creamy texture. Loved across Italy and ideal for cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings alike, this saffron risotto brings both luxury and tradition to your table.

Practical Tips for the Perfect Risotto

Always use arborio or carnaroli rice—these varieties absorb liquid while still retaining an ideal bite. To ensure creaminess without becoming mushy, stir the rice frequently, but don’t overdo it. Stirring helps release the rice’s starch, but if you’re too vigorous, it can break up the grains.

For an unmistakable saffron flavor and color, soak the saffron threads in a bit of warm broth before adding them to the rice. This unlocks their aroma and makes every spoonful fragrant and luxurious. If saffron is unavailable, you can add a pinch of turmeric for color, but the flavor will be different.

Culinary Insights & Techniques

Add hot broth gradually—never all at once. This technique, though a bit time-intensive, lets the rice cook evenly and achieve that velvety finish. Don’t rush this step. Tasting the risotto in the final minutes helps you find the perfect al dente stage.

When finishing, add cold butter and freshly grated Parmesan off the heat (a technique called "mantecatura") for a glossy shine and richer mouthfeel.

How to Serve & Vary Your Risotto

Risotto alla milanese is delicious on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with ossobuco, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a deluxe variation, add sautéed wild mushrooms or cooked peas for an earthy touch. If you want a vegan risotto, substitute the butter with high quality olive oil and use vegan Parmesan.

For an elegant presentation, serve in shallow bowls with a few extra saffron strands and a flourish of grated cheese. Each bite will transport your guests straight to Milan!

Tagged:healthy mediterranean diet recipe

Mileni Sabatini

Milena is a passionate home cook who finds joy in turning simple ingredients into wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meals. Writing on the blog lets her share not just recipes, but her love for balance and everyday wellness.

Risotto alla milanese homemade