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Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto

Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto
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Experience the perfect harmony of sweet caramelized onions, crispy smoky bacon, and sharp creamy Parmesan cheese in this luscious Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto. This creamy, comforting dish is easy to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions, delivering rich flavors and a smooth texture that will satisfy any palate.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 6 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the caramelized onions: Thinly slice onions and sauté them slowly over medium-low heat in a touch of butter for 30 to 40 minutes until they become golden brown and sweetly fragrant, unlocking deep sweetness critical to the dish’s flavor.
  2. Cook the bacon: In a separate pan over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and reserve some rendered fat for flavoring the risotto.
  3. Toast the rice: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat butter and reserved bacon fat. Add Arborio rice and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted and slightly translucent on the edges, enhancing its nutty flavor.
  4. Deglaze with white wine: Pour in a splash of white wine and stir until it almost entirely evaporates, lifting caramelized bits from the pan for extra depth (skip if not using wine).
  5. Slowly add broth: Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next, continuing for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender.
  6. Combine ingredients and finish: Stir in the caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste and finish with an extra pat of butter for richness.

Notes

  • Take your time caramelizing onions slowly over low heat to develop the richest flavor without burning.
  • Always use warm broth to maintain a steady cooking temperature and prevent rice from sticking.
  • Stir frequently to encourage rice to release starch, resulting in creamy risotto.
  • Use high quality Parmesan cheese and fresh bacon for the best flavor.
  • If risotto thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of broth or water before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: risotto, caramelized onion, bacon, parmesan, creamy, Italian, comfort food, dinner, easy recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/caramelized-onion-bacon-and-parmesan-risotto/