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Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon & Parmesan

Cozy Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon & Parmesan for Fall Comfort

Enjoy a luxurious and heartwarming Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon & Parmesan in just 45 minutes, perfect for fall comfort.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Avocado oil is a great neutral substitute.
  • 4 slices Bacon Turkey bacon offers a lighter alternative.
  • 1 small Onion, finely chopped Shallots yield a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used in smaller amounts if in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice Carnaroli rice works similarly well.
  • 3/4 cup Pumpkin Puree Butternut squash puree is a delicious alternative.
  • 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth, warmed Homemade broth enhances flavor significantly.
  • 1/2 cup Dry White Wine Reduce quantity of apple cider vinegar or use more broth for a non-alcoholic twist.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Consider Pecorino Romano for an even stronger taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Use non-dairy butter for vegan-friendly options.
  • Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.
  • Fresh Parsley, chopped for garnish Chives or spinach can brighten your dish too.
For Serving
  • Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette A refreshing side that complements the richness of the risotto beautifully.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 slices of diced bacon and cook for about 6–8 minutes, or until crispy. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.
  2. In the same skillet, add 1 small finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves for another minute.
  3. Add 1 cup of Arborio rice to the pan, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine, stirring until fully absorbed, about 2–3 minutes.
  5. Gradually add 4 cups of warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is al dente.
  6. Once cooked, stir in ¾ cup of pumpkin puree until fully blended and heated through, about 2 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, the cooked bacon, and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until combined.
  8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Regular stirring while adding broth is crucial for achieving the creamy consistency that defines risotto. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

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