Imagine a dish that combines the rich, hearty flavors of Italian sausage, the bright freshness of basil, and the luxurious creaminess of perfectly cooked risotto. This Tomato Basil and Sausage Risotto is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken broth and keep it simmering on low heat. This ensures the broth will be warm when added to the risotto.
- In a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and toast the grains for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps the rice develop a nutty flavor and allows it to better absorb the liquid.
- Begin adding the warm chicken broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time. Stir continuously and allow each ladleful to be absorbed before adding the next. This slow process helps release the rice's natural starches, creating a creamy texture.
- After about 15 minutes of adding broth, fold in the cooked and crumbled Italian sausage and diced tomatoes. Continue stirring and adding broth until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente).
- Remove the risotto from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will help melt the cheese and create a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped basil just before serving.
- Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to settle. Serve immediately in warm bowls.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio rice is crucial for authentic risotto. Its high starch content creates that signature creamy texture.
- Patience is Key: Don't rush the broth-adding process. Add liquid gradually and stir constantly to develop the risotto's signature creamy consistency.
- Keep Your Broth Warm: Always use warm broth when adding to the rice. Cold liquid can shock the rice and interrupt the cooking process.
- Achieve the Perfect Al Dente: The rice should have a slight bite—creamy but not mushy. Stop cooking when there's still a tiny firm center in each grain.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan cheese can dramatically improve the final flavor of your risotto.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the risotto to sit for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld and the texture settle.
- Serve Immediately: Risotto is best enjoyed right after cooking when it's at its creamiest. Don't let it sit too long, or it can become sticky.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
