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 vegetable or chicken broth, warmed; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Ideas

I always find myself reaching for a celebratory dish on special occasions, and this Champagne Risotto with Parmesan never disappoints. The combination of bubbly champagne and creamy Arborio rice creates a luxurious meal that's perfect for entertaining or simply indulging. It’s rich in flavor, and the nutty notes of the Parmesan cheese elevate every spoonful. Trust me, this dish is a great way to bring elegance to your table without a lot of fuss. You’ll love how it impresses your guests and satisfies your cravings!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:09:34.672Z

When I first decided to experiment with Champagne in my risotto, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld, but the results were surprising. The subtle sweetness and effervescence of the champagne paired beautifully with the creamy rice, resulting in a dish that feels both decadent and comforting.

I also discovered that patience is key when making risotto; stirring gradually allows the rice to release its starches, creating that creamy consistency we all adore. A simple sprinkle of fresh herbs on top finished the dish perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxurious champagne adds a festive touch
Creamy texture that envelops your palate beautifully
Simple ingredients that create a gourmet experience

      

Creating the Creamy Texture

The key to achieving that signature creamy texture in risotto lies in the slow incorporation of the broth. By adding broth gradually, you allow the rice to release its natural starches, resulting in the silky mouthfeel risotto is renowned for. Stirring constantly not only helps with even cooking but also ensures that no rice sticks to the bottom of your pan, which can lead to unwanted burnt flavors.

If you notice that your risotto is becoming too thick before all the broth is absorbed, it’s perfectly acceptable to add a splash of water to loosen it up. This flexibility ensures that you can salvage a batch that may be becoming too dry or sticky. Aim for a consistency that flows off the spoon, but is still thick enough to hold its shape on the plate.

Choosing the Right Champagne

Your choice of champagne can dramatically influence the flavor profile of the risotto. Opt for a dry or brut champagne; the acidity will balance well with the richness of the Parmesan cheese. A sweeter variant may lead to an overly sugary dish, which can detract from the intended savory notes. If champagne isn’t available, you could substitute it with a dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, but the final flavor will differ slightly.

Another helpful tip is to always use a champagne that you enjoy drinking. If you find the taste delightful in a glass, it’ll shine through in your risotto. Occasionally, I’ll even reserve a little champagne to pour into my glass while cooking—that way, I can appreciate the flavors as I create.

Garnishing and Serving Tips

When it comes to garnishing your risotto, fresh herbs can elevate your dish significantly. Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the risotto. You can also experiment with other herbs such as chives or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing touch that uplifts the entire dish.

To serve champagne risotto beautifully, consider pairing it with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to complement the richness. A chilled glass of the same champagne used in the risotto enhances the experience, making each bite more enjoyable. If you're entertaining, a simple garnish of microgreens or edible flowers can also add an elegant and sophisticated flair to the presentation.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

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

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the rice is lightly golden.

Deglaze with Champagne

Pour in the champagne, stirring until it's mostly absorbed by the rice. This step infuses the risotto with a delightful depth of flavor.

Slowly Add Broth

Begin adding the warmed broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. This process should take about 20 minutes.

Finish with Parmesan

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, remove the pan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the risotto into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch before serving.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of extra champagne before serving. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms or asparagus for added texture and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make the dish vegetarian, feel free to substitute the chicken broth with a robust vegetable broth. This will still yield a delicious flavor, particularly when combined with the earthy notes of the Parmesan. For a vegan version, consider using nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan, though the texture may be different, and you might want to include a splash of coconut milk at the end for creaminess.

For those avoiding gluten, double-check your broth options to ensure they are gluten-free. Most vegetable and chicken broths are compliant, but always read the labels. Additionally, the Arborio rice is typically gluten-free, but if you require another option, look for certified gluten-free risotto rice.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Champagne risotto is best enjoyed fresh due to its creamy texture, but if you need to make it ahead, prepare the risotto without adding the Parmesan. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth to restore creaminess, and then stir in the Parmesan just before serving.

Avoid freezing the risotto, as the creaminess can separate upon thawing. However, if you must freeze leftovers, be aware that the texture will change significantly. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and follow the same method of adding liquid to bring it back to life during reheating.

Variations to Try

For a delightful twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or asparagus to your risotto. These ingredients complement the flavor of the champagne beautifully and bring a new layer of texture and taste. Just be sure to cook them separately and add them in during the final mixing phase to keep their integrity.

Another variation is to include citrus elements like lemon or orange juice and zest. This addition can elevate the entire dish, giving it a fresh burst that contrasts with the richness of the cheese. Simply add a teaspoon of zest along with the Parmesan for a bright finish that truly shines.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it to the point of adding the broth and then reheat it with more broth when ready to serve.

→ What type of champagne should I use?

Any dry champagne or sparkling wine works well. Avoid sweet varieties as they may alter the dish's flavor.

→ Can I use other cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino or Gruyère for a unique flavor.

→ How do I store leftover risotto?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen it.