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Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon & Parmesan

Creamy Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon & Parmesan Bliss

A delightful Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon & Parmesan, perfect for cozy autumn evenings. This creamy dish blends the sweetness of pumpkin with savory bacon and cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing; can substitute with neutral oil
  • 4 slices Bacon Diced; omit for vegetarian version
  • 1 small Onion Finely chopped; shallots can be used
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh preferred
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice Essential for creamy texture; do not substitute
  • 3/4 cup Pumpkin Puree Canned is typical; fresh can be pureed
  • 4 cups Broth Chicken or vegetable, warmed
  • 1/2 cup White Wine Dry; replace with broth for non-alcoholic
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated; pecorino can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Contributes richness; use vegan butter for plant-based
  • Salt and Black Pepper To taste
  • Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • large, heavy-bottomed pan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Bacon: Heat olive oil over medium heat, add diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon, leaving fat for flavor.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add finely chopped onion; sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic for another minute.
  3. Toast the Rice: Mix in Arborio rice, stirring for about 2 minutes until edges are translucent.
  4. Add the Wine: Pour in white wine; simmer until absorbed, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the Broth: Gradually add warmed broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently for 18-20 minutes until creamy and al dente.
  6. Mix in the Pumpkin: Stir in pumpkin puree until well combined and heated through.
  7. Finish with Dairy and Bacon: Remove from heat, add butter, bacon, and Parmesan; stir to melt into a creamy mixture.
  8. Season and Garnish: Taste and season with salt and pepper; serve warm garnished with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a vegetarian option, omit bacon and consider smoked paprika. Stir consistently while cooking for the best texture.

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