If you’re hunting for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that feels equal parts elegant and comforting, this Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe truly delivers. Imagine silky Arborio rice studded with smoky bacon, a layer of sweet, golden caramelized onions, and a shower of salty Parmesan—all coming together in a dreamy, creamy risotto. Every spoonful is rich with depth and warmth, making it a perfect centerpiece whether you’re entertaining or craving a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about building blocks—these ingredients are simple, but each one brings something special to the table. From the savoriness of bacon to the lush, starchy rice, each component contributes to the overall taste symphony, and picking good-quality ingredients makes all the difference for this Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe.

Olive oil: A touch of good olive oil helps start those onions on the right note, giving them depth and gloss without weighing them down.
Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Smoky, crispy bits that lend an irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch throughout the dish.
Medium onion (thinly sliced): The star for that mellow, caramelized sweetness—take your time with it!
Arborio rice (2 cups): Essential for that signature creamy risotto texture; don’t swap for regular rice, as nothing else does the job quite like Arborio.
Chicken broth (4 cups, low-sodium): Lends subtle savory depth; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian spin.
Dry white wine (1 cup, optional): Adds brightness and complexity, but you can keep things kid-friendly by using extra broth instead.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Finishes the risotto with a luxurious, velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Packs that salty, nutty punch that sets this dish apart—freshly grated is best!
Salt and pepper, to taste: The final seasoning is all about you; balance it to your liking right at the end.
Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): A pop of color and freshness to brighten every bowlful.

How to Make Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add your thinly sliced onions, and simmer them gently, stirring now and then, for about 15 to 20 minutes. The key here is patience: let those onions go slow to unlock their natural sugars and develop a deep golden brown color. Keep the heat on the low side, and don’t rush—your risotto will be that much better for it.

Step 2: Remove and Set Aside the Onions

Once your onions have transformed into soft, sweet, golden ribbons, take them out of the skillet and set aside for later. This little breather helps them cool a bit and infuses your kitchen with that fabulous aroma.

Step 3: Crisp the Bacon

In that same skillet (no need to clean it—those flavors are precious!), add your chopped bacon. Let it sizzle over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain extra fat. Try not to munch too much—it’s destined for the risotto!

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Still in the same pan, pour in your Arborio rice. Stir for a minute or two, making sure every grain gets coated in that luscious bacon fat. This quick toast deepens the flavor and gets the rice ready to soak up all that glorious liquid.

Step 5: Add the Wine

Splash in the dry white wine (if you’re using it), stirring constantly. Let the rice absorb almost all the liquid—this step builds the foundation of flavor and helps the grains release some of their natural starch.

Step 6: Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding your warm chicken (or vegetable) broth, just one ladleful at a time. Stir often, allowing the rice to drink up the liquid before adding more. This slow and steady approach results in a creamy risotto that’s tender but still has a gentle bite. This step usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes, and you might not need all the broth—taste as you go!

Step 7: Stir in the Good Stuff

With the rice creamy and just al dente, return your caramelized onions and crispy bacon to the pan. Add the butter and Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and glossy. Everything should be beautifully combined, and the fragrance is out of this world!

Step 8: Season to Taste

Give your risotto a final seasoning with salt and pepper. Start slow—the bacon and Parmesan already bring plenty of saltiness, so let your taste be the guide here.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe onto warm plates or bowls. Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately, while it’s irresistibly hot and creamy.

How to Serve Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe

Garnishes

A final flourish of grated Parmesan and a handful of fresh parsley can take this risotto from great to unforgettable. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a drizzle of really good olive oil or a few crispy bacon crumbles wouldn’t hurt either!

Side Dishes

Since this Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe is rich and satisfying, it pairs beautifully with simple sides like a bright arugula salad tossed in lemon or lightly roasted vegetables. For something heartier, serve with garlicky sautéed green beans or a crisp baguette.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, serve the risotto in individual ramekins or culinary rings for tableside drama. Or, hollow out roasted acorn squash halves and fill them with risotto—the sweet squash and savory rice are a dreamy match. Even spooning bite-sized portions into chic little spoons makes for a stellar appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe, let it cool completely before scooping it into airtight containers. Store in the fridge where it’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, ready for whenever a craving strikes.

Freezing

While fresh risotto is always best for texture, you absolutely can freeze it! Place cooled risotto in freezer-safe containers, pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface to ward off freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Just note the rice will soften and may lose some creaminess, but the flavors stay lovely.

Reheating

To reheat, add a generous splash of broth or water to loosen it up, then warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. This helps restore that silky risotto magic. The microwave works in a pinch—again, just stir in a splash of liquid first.

FAQs

Can I make this risotto vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. You might consider adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra boost of umami to fill in for the bacon’s flavor.

What’s the best wine to use in this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal; they bring brightness without overpowering the risotto. If you’d rather skip alcohol, simply use an additional cup of broth.

Can I use a different type of rice?

For the classic creamy texture, Arborio rice is really the gold standard! Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are also wonderful if you can find them. Regular long-grain or basmati rice won’t work the same magic in this Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The perfect risotto is creamy with each grain just tender and a tiny bit firm in the center (al dente). Taste as you go—start checking after 18 to 20 minutes and remove from the heat as soon as you love the texture.

Is it okay to prepare the onions or bacon ahead of time?

Yes, making the caramelized onions or crisping the bacon a day ahead can save time and stress. Simply store them in separate containers in the fridge, then let them warm to room temperature before stirring into your risotto.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wanted to cozy up with a bowl of pure comfort, give this Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress—rich, aromatic, and so satisfyingly creamy. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request at your table!

Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 21 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto – a creamy and savory dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal.

Instructions

Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook onions until golden and set aside.
Cook Bacon: In the same skillet, cook bacon until crispy, then set aside.
Prepare Risotto: Toast rice in bacon fat, add wine, then gradually stir in broth until creamy.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in caramelized onions, bacon, butter, and Parmesan until melted and well combined.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with Parmesan and parsley, then serve hot.

Notes

You can customize this risotto with additional vegetables or herbs for added flavor.
Ensure to stir the risotto often to achieve a creamy texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 57g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Caramelized Onion Risotto, Bacon Risotto, Parmesan Risotto, Comfort Food