Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Risotto

Name: Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I've always loved making risotto, but this Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Risotto holds a special place in my heart. The rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms combine beautifully with the tender turkey, creating a dish that feels both cozy and indulgent. I appreciate how the Arborio rice absorbs the broth, resulting in that luscious, creamy texture that's simply irresistible. This dish has become a comfort food staple in my home, perfect for lazy weekends or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-20T13:59:19.312Z

When I first tried making this risotto, I was unsure about balancing the flavors, but the combination of turkey and mushrooms surprised me with its depth. Cooking the mushrooms until they’re perfectly golden adds a wonderful umami flavor that elevates the whole dish. I found that adding a little white wine not only enhances the taste but also aids in achieving that creamy consistency we all love.

One of my favorite tips is to stir the risotto consistently while gradually adding the broth. This method not only helps to release the starches in the rice, creating that creamy texture, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this has become a go-to meal in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Risotto
        Rich and savory flavors of turkey and mushrooms
Creamy consistency that feels indulgent without being heavy
Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests

      

Embracing the Arborio Rice

The star of this risotto is definitely the Arborio rice. Its high starch content is what creates that creamy texture we're all after. When cooking, the rice will release its starches, thickening the dish beautifully. Pay attention to the rice as it cooks; it should be tender with a slight bite in the center, which is referred to as al dente. If you find your risotto too thick, simply stir in a bit more warm broth until you achieve your desired consistency.

Additionally, using the right technique is crucial for achieving a perfect risotto. The key is to add the chicken broth gradually, one ladle at a time. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid slowly, ensuring each grain cooks evenly and absorbs the rich flavors from the broth and sautéed vegetables. Stirring constantly is essential during this process; it not only helps release more starch but also prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Mushrooms and Meat: A Flavorful Combination

In this recipe, mushrooms play a dual role, contributing both texture and umami richness that beautifully complements the shredded turkey. Sautéing the mushrooms until they are golden brown before adding the rice elevates their flavors, bringing out their natural sweetness. For variety, consider experimenting with different mushroom types, such as shiitake or portobello, which can add unique flavors to the dish.

If you don't have turkey on hand, leftover chicken or even a vegetarian option like sautéed spinach with chickpeas can work beautifully in this risotto. Keep your proportions similar, and don't hesitate to season accordingly. For a different take, consider adding cooked bacon or pancetta for an extra layer of smokiness and richness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious risotto:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy turkey and mushroom risotto:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re golden brown.

Toast the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the pan.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until it has mostly evaporated. This adds a lovely acidity to balance the creaminess.

Add Broth Gradually

Begin adding the chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.

Incorporate Turkey and Cheese

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the shredded turkey and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the risotto and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy while warm!

Make sure to serve this risotto immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This can brighten up the dish beautifully!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a busy week, this risotto can be partially prepared in advance. You can sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms the day before and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, resume cooking by adding the rice and broth. Just remember that risotto is best enjoyed fresh, as it tends to lose its creamy texture when stored. If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating risotto can be tricky, but with a little care, you can restore its creamy texture. When ready to reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up and heat it gently on the stove. Stir continuously until warmed through. The goal is to replicate that fresh-made creaminess, so avoid high heat as it can dry out the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch, serve this creamy risotto in bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful visual element. I love to pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the meal's richness.

For a cozy dinner vibe, feel free to add a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which complement the flavors of turkey and mushrooms well. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving it alongside a light red or white wine that can elevate the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly and saves time.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this risotto?

Yes! You can substitute the turkey with sautéed spinach or additional mushrooms, and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I make the risotto creamier?

Stir in an additional tablespoon of butter or more Parmesan cheese right before serving for an even richer texture.

→ Can I make this risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and combine them before serving.