Name: Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300 g rice for risotto; 1 L vegetable stock; 100 ml white wine; 50 g butter; 50 g Parmesan, grated; Salt to taste, if needed; 200 g salsiccia Italian sausage; 250 g radicchio (1 small or half a large one); 1 shallot

Jump to Recipe·4 from 84 reviews

If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and bursting with bold flavors, this Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. Combining the hearty, savory goodness of Italian salsiccia sausage with the slightly bitter, vibrant notes of radicchio, this risotto sings with creamy texture and delightful depth. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth with each spoonful and makes any ordinary evening feel like a special occasion. Once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to comfort foods that’s impressive enough to serve to guests but surprisingly simple to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a table with three main food items arranged on a white marbled surface. At the front, there is a white bowl filled with irregular chunks of light brown raw meat with some visible texture. Behind it to the left, a white bowl is filled with finely shredded layers of deep purple and white radicchio, creating a mix of dark and light colors. To the right, there is a wooden cutting board with finely chopped white onions in the center, a small black knife resting on the board's edge, and a few onion skins scattered nearby. In the background, a glass of light yellow wine sits on the table, adding a slight shine to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in coaxing out the earthy, tangy, and creamy flavors that make this dish unforgettable. From the sweet sharpness of the shallot to the melty richness of parmesan, every component adds a unique layer of taste and texture.

300 g rice for risotto: Arborio or Carnaroli rice is ideal for creating that signature creamy risotto texture.
200 g salsiccia Italian sausage: Brings savory, spiced meatiness that complements the bitter radicchio perfectly.
250 g radicchio (1 small or half a large one): Adds a beautiful color and a slight bitterness that balances richness.
100 ml white wine: Lifts the dish with a subtle acid brightness and depth.
1 L vegetable stock: The backbone of any great risotto, providing moisture and subtle flavor.
1 shallot: For a gentle sweetness and aromatic base.
50 g butter: Adds luscious creaminess and helps marry the flavors together.
50 g parmesan grated: Gives the final nutty, salty punch that defines a great risotto.
Salt to taste: To enhance all the other flavors perfectly.

How to Make Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the shallot and roughly slicing the radicchio into thin strips. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Having all these ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Shallot and Sausage

In a large pan over medium heat, melt half the butter and add the shallot. Sauté gently until translucent and fragrant. Then, add the sausage pieces and cook until beautifully browned and cooked through, releasing those savory, spiced aromas into the pan.

Step 3: Add the Radicchio

Once the sausage is cooked, toss in the radicchio. Stir frequently until it softens slightly but still retains a hint of crunch and its brilliant color.

Step 4: Toast the Rice and Deglaze

Add the rice to the pan and stir well to coat each grain with the butter and flavors. Toast it lightly for a couple of minutes, which helps develop a wonderful nutty undertone. Then pour in the white wine, letting it simmer until it’s mostly absorbed—this step adds brightness and depth.

Step 5: Gradually Add Stock While Stirring

Now comes the heart of risotto making: adding warm vegetable stock ladle by ladle. Stir consistently and patiently, allowing the rice to absorb each addition before adding more. This process releases the rice’s natural starch and results in that unmistakably creamy texture. It usually takes about 18-20 minutes until the rice is perfectly tender but still has a slight bite.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Parmesan

When the rice is just right, remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining butter and grated parmesan cheese. This adds a luscious richness and boosts the umami flavor. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Your Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe is now ready to wow!

How to Serve Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe

A bowl filled with creamy risotto mixed with browned sausage pieces and caramelized onion strips, topped with a sprinkle of grated white cheese and a small green rosemary sprig for garnish. The risotto shows a soft, slightly shiny texture with visible grains and bits of sausage and onion throughout. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is white with a deep round shape and sits on a light beige textured cloth, placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, a small white bowl of grated cheese and a glass of pale yellow wine are slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and an extra grating of parmesan on top add a lovely finishing touch. For a pop of color and freshness, scatter finely chopped parsley or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil over each serving.

Side Dishes

This risotto shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus also make fantastic companions, balancing the creamy richness of the risotto.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve this risotto in warmed shallow bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side. You could even portion it into elegant small cups as an appetizer. It’s versatile and inviting whether plated simply or dressed up with thoughtful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second helping.

Freezing

Risotto doesn’t freeze as well due to its creamy texture, but if necessary, freeze in small portions for up to one month. Just know that reheating might cause some texture change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen the risotto and warm gently over low heat while stirring. This brings back its creamy consistency without drying out the rice.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian salsiccia is perfect for authenticity and flavor, you can substitute with mild or spicy Italian sausage, or even a good quality breakfast sausage to suit your taste preferences.

What can I substitute for radicchio?

If radicchio is hard to find, try using radishes, kale, or even red cabbage for a similar slightly bitter crunch and color contrast. Just adjust the cooking time to keep some texture.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe?

White wine adds a lovely acidity and complexity, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can replace it with an equal amount of vegetable broth plus a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be tender yet still offer a slight bite at its core, known as al dente. It should not be mushy or overly firm. The overall texture should be creamy and slightly loose.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some tweaks, yes! Use a plant-based sausage alternative, vegetable broth, dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese to recreate the creamy richness without animal products.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the comforting creaminess and bold flavors in this Creamy Sausage and Radicchio Risotto Recipe. It’s a dish that makes you feel cared for and satisfied with every bite. I can’t recommend it enough for cozy dinners or when you want to impress loved ones with authentic Italian flavors. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen!