Creamy Four-Cheese Risotto (Risotto ai 4 Formaggi)
If you are a fan of rich, creamy, and indulgent dishes, then this Four-Cheese Risotto will surely win your heart. With a perfect blend of luxurious cheeses like Gorgonzola, Taleggio, Gruyère, and Grana Padano, this risotto is a true celebration of flavors. The creamy texture and aromatic taste will elevate your meal, making it the perfect comfort food. This recipe serves 4 and is a great choice for a special dinner or as a side dish to complement any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carnaroli Rice | 320g |
| Gruyère Cheese | 80g |
| Gorgonzola Cheese | 100g |
| Taleggio Cheese | 100g |
| Grana Padano DOP Cheese | 80g |
| Vegetable Broth | 1L |
| Shallot | 1 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 20g |
| Butter | 30g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheeses:
Begin by preparing your cheeses. For the Gorgonzola, remove the rind and cut the cheese into small pieces. For the Gruyère, do the same, removing the rind and cutting it into cubes. Cube the Taleggio cheese as well, ensuring all cheeses are ready to be incorporated later into the risotto. -
Sauté the Shallot:
Next, peel and finely chop the shallot. In a medium-sized pan, heat the olive oil and butter over low heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, releasing its aromatic sweetness. -
Toast the Rice:
In a separate pan, toast the Carnaroli rice over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes. This process helps the rice to release its starch and adds a nutty flavor to the risotto. Stir the rice frequently with a wooden spoon to avoid burning. -
Start Cooking the Risotto:
Once the rice is toasted, add the vegetable broth to the pan gradually. Add the broth a ladle at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to keep the rice from sticking to the pan. This process will take approximately 18 to 20 minutes, and the rice should be tender but still al dente. -
Finish the Risotto:
When the rice is almost done, remove the pan from the heat. Add all the cheeses—Gorgonzola, Gruyère, Taleggio, and the grated Grana Padano. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into the creamy rice. The result should be a smooth, velvety texture. -
Season and Serve:
Taste your risotto and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the risotto. -
Plate and Enjoy:
Spoon the creamy, cheesy risotto onto plates, making sure to serve immediately while it’s hot and indulgent. You can garnish with extra grated Grana Padano or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.
This risotto is a comforting and decadent dish that combines the smooth, creamy texture of the rice with the rich, sharp flavors of the four cheeses. The careful layering of flavors, from the sautéed shallot to the slow infusion of vegetable broth, ensures that every bite is a delightful experience. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress your guests with something elegant yet easy to prepare.
Enjoy your Four-Cheese Risotto as a main dish, or pair it with roasted vegetables or grilled meats for a full meal. The creamy texture of the risotto will complement a wide variety of accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for many occasions.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~500 kcal |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Carbohydrates | ~60g |
| Fat | ~22g |
| Saturated Fat | ~12g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Pro Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap any of the cheeses with your favorites. For example, a strong Pecorino Romano can replace Grana Padano for a more intense flavor.
- Broth Choices: If you’re looking for a richer taste, consider using a homemade vegetable broth or a light chicken broth for more depth of flavor.
- Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier risotto, you can add a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking, but it’s absolutely optional.
Whether you’re a risotto connoisseur or new to cooking this Italian classic, this recipe is sure to be a hit in your kitchen. Enjoy!
