Savory Mushroom and Thyme Risotto with Truffle Oil

Risotto is the ultimate comfort food, and when you infuse it with earthy mushrooms, fragrant thyme, and a drizzle of luxurious truffle oil, you’ve got a dish that’s nothing short of magical. This Savory Mushroom and Thyme Risotto with Truffle Oil is perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or even cozy weeknight meals. It’s creamy, indulgent, and packed with flavor, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture : The slow-cooked Arborio rice creates a velvety base that pairs beautifully with the umami-rich mushrooms.
- Elevated Flavor Profile : Fresh thyme and a hint of truffle oil take this dish from simple to gourmet in minutes.
- Versatile Dish : Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this risotto fits seamlessly into any menu.
- Meatless Marvel : Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, this dish proves that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Risotto:
- 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth (warm)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Finishing Touches:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon truffle oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat to keep it warm. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme leaves.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Stir in the Arborio rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, ensuring each grain is coated in the oil and aromatics.
Step 5: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 6: Add the Broth Gradually
Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Allow the liquid to absorb before adding more. This process should take about 18-20 minutes. The rice should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente).
Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Butter
Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and truffle oil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 8: Serve
Divide the risotto among bowls, drizzle with additional truffle oil, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people as a main course or 6 people as a side dish.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Nutrition Balance Score
Per serving (without extra tringle oil):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
A: Absolutely! Chicken broth works well if you’re not aiming for a vegetarian dish.
Q: What can I substitute for white wine?
A: You can use an additional ½ cup of broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Q: Is truffle oil necessary?
A: While not mandatory, truffle oil adds a luxurious depth of flavor. If unavailable, double the amount of fresh thyme for extra aroma.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Risotto is best served fresh, but you can reheat it by adding a splash of broth to loosen the texture.
Other Meatless Dinner Options to Try
- Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowls
- Lemon Herb Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
- Crispy Baked Falafel Wraps
Collection
Looking for more risotto inspiration? Check out these recipes:
- Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
- Lemon and Asparagus Risotto
- Seafood Risotto with Shrimp and Scallops
Tips for Cooking Perfect Risotto
- Use Warm Broth : Cold broth slows down the cooking process and affects the texture.
- Stir Constantly : This ensures a creamy consistency without clumping.
- Don’t Rush It : Adding broth gradually allows the rice to absorb flavors properly.
- Finish with Butter : A knob of butter at the end adds richness and shine.
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