Creamy Tomato Risotto (One Pot)

Creamy Tomato Risotto (One Pot) is a medium Italian recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Hilltop Recipes on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 27 min | Total: 47 min

Cost: $5.60 total, $1.40 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (peeled and finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (grated)
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice (short‑grain risotto rice)
  • 2 liters Vegetable Broth (kept hot on the stove)
  • 1 cup Tomato Puree (seasoned with salt, dried oregano, and black pepper)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Basil (chopped, optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Finely chop the onion, grate the garlic, measure the broth, and grate the Parmesan cheese. Keep the broth hot on a separate saucepan.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Heat Oil

    Add 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil to a large skillet and warm over medium heat until it shimmers.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Sauté Onion

    Add the chopped onion to the oil and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Add Garlic

    Stir in the grated garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Toast the Rice

    Increase the heat to medium‑high, add 1 cup Arborio rice, and stir with a wooden spoon for 2 minutes until the grains become shiny and slightly translucent.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Add First Broth and Tomato Puree

    Pour in 2 cups of hot vegetable broth and 1 cup tomato puree, then season with salt, dried oregano, and black pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Gradual Broth Incorporation

    Continue adding the remaining hot broth, 2 cups at a time, stirring constantly. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Cook for a total of 15‑20 minutes until the rice is al dente and the mixture is creamy.

    Time: PT18M

  8. Finish with Butter and Parmesan

    Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 2 tbsp butter and the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Plate and Garnish

    Spoon the risotto onto plates, garnish with a pinch of dried oregano or freshly chopped basil, and serve immediately.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
10 g
Carbohydrates
55 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 14, 2026

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Creamy Tomato Risotto (One Pot)

Recipe by Hilltop Recipes

A velvety Italian-inspired risotto made with Arborio rice, hot vegetable broth, and rich tomato puree, finished with butter and Parmesan for a comforting, restaurant‑quality dish.

MediumItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
24m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
45m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.60
Total cost
$1.40
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Step 5: Toast the rice until shiny and translucent
  • Step 7: Gradual broth incorporation while stirring continuously
  • Step 8: Off‑heat addition of butter and Parmesan for a glossy finish

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter – keep a safe distance and use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Broth is boiling hot; handle with care to avoid burns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of creamy tomato risotto in Italian cuisine?

A

Risotto originated in Northern Italy, especially the Lombardy region, as a way to turn simple rice into a luxurious, comforting dish. Tomato‑based risottos became popular after tomatoes were introduced from the New World, adding a bright acidity that balances the creamy texture.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of tomato risotto in Italy?

A

In Milan, a classic Risotto alla Milanese uses saffron, while in the coastal regions tomatoes are often combined with seafood. Some versions add fresh basil or mozzarella for a more Southern Italian twist.

cultural
Q

How is creamy tomato risotto traditionally served in Italian households?

A

It is typically served as a primo (first course) hot from the pan, garnished with a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and fresh herbs like basil or oregano. It is enjoyed with a glass of light red wine.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is creamy tomato risotto associated with in Italian culture?

A

Risotto is a staple for family gatherings, festive holidays such as Christmas Eve, and special occasions where a warm, hearty first course is appreciated. Its versatility makes it suitable for both casual weeknight meals and celebratory dinners.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Italian creamy tomato risotto versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include Arborio rice, hot vegetable (or chicken) broth, ripe tomato puree, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Substitutes can be Carnaroli rice for a similar texture, chicken broth for a richer flavor, or Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy tomato risotto at home?

A

Common errors include adding cold broth, which stops the cooking process, stirring too aggressively which can break the grains, and overcooking the rice which makes it mushy. Keep the broth hot, stir gently, and stop cooking when the rice is al dente.

technical
Q

Why does this creamy tomato risotto recipe use gradual broth addition instead of adding all the liquid at once?

A

Gradual broth addition allows the rice to release its starch slowly, creating the signature creamy texture while giving you control over the final consistency. Adding all the liquid at once would result in a soupy, under‑cooked risotto.

technical
Q

Can I make creamy tomato risotto ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

You can prepare the risotto up to the point of adding butter and cheese, then cool it quickly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of hot broth, and finish by stirring in the butter and Parmesan.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making creamy tomato risotto?

A

The risotto should be glossy, slightly fluid, and the grains should be tender with a firm center (al dente). It should not be dry or overly thick; a spoon should glide through the rice without resistance.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Hilltop Recipes specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Hilltop Recipes focuses on approachable home‑cooked meals, offering step‑by‑step tutorials for classic comfort foods and everyday dishes that emphasize simple techniques and wholesome ingredients.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Hilltop Recipes' approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

Hilltop Recipes emphasizes minimal equipment, clear narration, and budget‑friendly ingredient choices, making traditional Italian dishes like risotto accessible to home cooks without requiring specialty tools or hard‑to‑find products.

channel

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