Mushroom & bacon risotto

Mushroom & bacon risotto is a creamy and savory dish that blends earthy mushrooms with smoky bacon. Infused with white wine and chicken gravy, it's ideal for a comforting meal.

25 Dec 2025
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter
5 bacon strips
1 cup mushrooms
6 cups chicken gravy
1 cup white wine
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 cups white rice
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
2 tbsp lemon zest

Mushroom & bacon risotto is a savory and comforting dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the rich, smoky taste of bacon. This creamy risotto, infused with white wine and chicken gravy, is the perfect meal for a cozy evening at home.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Chop the fresh parsley.
- Zest the lemons to obtain 2 tablespoons of lemon zest.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- Heat a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy.
- Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add 1/4 cup of butter to the same pan with the bacon fat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until the mushrooms are softened (about 5-6 minutes).

4. Cook the Rice:
- Add the 2 cups of white rice to the pan and stir to coat the rice with the butter and vegetable mixture.
- Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to become slightly translucent.

5. Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in 1 cup of white wine and stir continuously until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.

6. Incorporate the Chicken Gravy:
- Gradually add the chicken gravy, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly.
- Allow each addition of gravy to be absorbed before adding the next.
- Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, about 18-20 minutes.

7. Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the cooked bacon pieces.
- Add the chopped parsley and lemon zest, mixing well to combine.

8. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the risotto and add salt and pepper as needed.

9. Serve:
- Serve the risotto hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon zest if desired.

This Mushroom & bacon risotto is the epitome of comfort food, delivering rich and hearty flavors in every bite. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an impressive dish for guests, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Mushroom & bacon risotto FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the risotto?

The cooking process for the risotto takes about 18-20 minutes after adding the chicken gravy. This includes stirring until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.

What type of white wine is best for risotto?

A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, works well for risotto. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the dish's flavor profile.

Can I substitute the chicken gravy with a vegetarian option?

Yes, you can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth or a plant-based gravy for a vegetarian version of this risotto.

How should I store leftover risotto?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.

What kind of mushrooms can I use in this recipe?

You can use various types of mushrooms like cremini, button, or shiitake. Just ensure they are chopped evenly for consistent cooking.

Tips:

- Use Arborio rice for the creamiest consistency, as it releases more starch than other types of rice.

- Keep your chicken gravy warm in a separate pot so that it can be easily incorporated into the risotto without cooling down the cooking process.

- Slowly add the chicken gravy to the rice, one ladle at a time, allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Stir constantly to prevent the rice from sticking to the pot and to help release the starch from the rice for a creamier dish.

- For added flavor, toast the rice in the butter for a minute or two before adding the liquid.

- Allow the risotto to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.

- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of freshness just before serving.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 890kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 120g
Fiber 3.16g
Sugar 4.48g
Fat 30g

Mushroom & bacon risotto