Creamy Sausage and Fennel Risotto Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, bursting with flavor, and just downright delightful to eat, look no further than this Creamy Sausage and Fennel Risotto Recipe. It brings together the rich savoriness of sausage, the subtle anise notes from fresh fennel, and the beautiful creaminess of perfectly cooked Arborio rice. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, and it’s simple enough to whip up any night of the week yet impressive enough to serve guests. I absolutely love how the ingredients balance each other perfectly, making this risotto a guaranteed favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that make this risotto truly shine. From the creamy Arborio rice to the aromatic fennel and hearty sausage, these simple staples come together to craft a dish that’s surprisingly elegant yet approachable.

• 1 cup Arborio Rice: Essential for a creamy risotto texture, this short-grain rice absorbs flavorful broth beautifully.
• 1 pound Sausage: Choose chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter touch that still delivers a savory punch.
• 1 medium Fennel Bulb: Adds a subtle licorice-like flavor and crunch when finely chopped, brightening the dish.
• 4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Keeps the risotto moist and infuses it with gentle, savory depth without overpowering.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped to bring natural sweetness that balances the hearty sausage.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced to add aromatic warmth and complexity to every bite.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For sautéing, providing a silky base layer of flavor.
• 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated and stirred in at the end for that unmistakably cheesy, creamy finish.
• Salt: To season and enhance the natural flavors.
• Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances richness.
• 1 handful Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top to add a fresh, green note.

How to Make Creamy Sausage and Fennel Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions and cook gently until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes. This slow sauté releases their natural sweetness, forming the perfect flavor base for the risotto.

Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma

Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. This brief cooking time is enough to unlock its fragrant notes without letting it burn and turn bitter.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Add your crumbled or sliced sausage to the pot. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, breaking it into smaller pieces as it sizzles. This step takes around 7 to 10 minutes and creates that rich, meaty depth that makes this risotto irresistible.

Step 4: Sauté the Fennel

Now, fold in the finely chopped fennel bulb. Cook it for 4 to 5 minutes until softened but still with a little crunch, allowing its subtle licorice flavor to mingle perfectly with the sausage.

Step 5: Toast the Arborio Rice

Stir the Arborio rice into the pot, letting it toast for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for that signature creamy texture and slightly nutty undertone risotto is famous for.

Step 6: Add Chicken Broth Gradually

Pour in the chicken broth ladle by ladle, stirring frequently. Wait until each addition is absorbed before adding the next. This gradual process helps the rice release its starches, transforming the dish into a luscious, creamy masterpiece.

Step 7: Continue Cooking Until Perfectly Creamy

Keep adding broth and stirring for about 20 to 25 minutes in total, until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite. This al dente texture is what makes risotto beautifully satisfying.

Step 8: Finish with Parmesan Cheese and Seasoning

Once the risotto is off the heat, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that extra creamy richness. Then season with salt and pepper to your taste, balancing all the flavors just right.

Step 9: Serve Hot and Garnished

Dish up the risotto immediately, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. This simple touch adds brightness and a lovely color contrast to your stunning dish.

How to Serve Creamy Sausage and Fennel Risotto Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that not only brightens the plate but adds a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness. For a bit of zing, consider a sprinkle of lemon zest or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to elevate the flavors even further.

Side Dishes

This risotto shines as a standalone meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A light, citrusy salad or steamed asparagus bring a refreshing balance to this hearty, creamy dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the risotto in small, shallow bowls topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fennel fronds for an elegant look. You can also try plating it alongside grilled sausage links or fennel slices for those who want to see the main ingredients on display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy evenings when a comforting meal is needed quickly.

Freezing

While risotto is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the risotto in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up and restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and bring it back to its luscious, cozy state.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this risotto?

Absolutely! While chicken or turkey sausage is recommended for a lighter meal, spicy Italian sausage or pork sausage also work wonderfully and add a different depth of flavor.

Is fennel necessary, or can I substitute it?

Fennel adds a unique anise flavor and crunch, but if you’re not a fan, you can swap it for celery or even omit it. Just know it changes the flavor profile slightly from the original creamy sausage and fennel risotto recipe.

Can I make this risotto vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth and substitute the sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative to keep the dish hearty and flavorful without meat.

How do I get the risotto creamy without cream?

The creaminess comes from the natural starch released by Arborio rice as it slowly absorbs the broth—not from cream. Stirring often and adding broth gradually is the secret.

Can I prepare part of the risotto in advance?

You can prep ingredients ahead, like chopping the fennel and onion or browning the sausage, but risotto is best cooked fresh to maintain its texture and creaminess.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Creamy Sausage and Fennel Risotto Recipe; it’s a cozy yet sophisticated meal that feels like a celebration every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite. The way the flavors meld together with that luscious creamy texture makes every bite simply unforgettable.

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