Name: Creamy Wedding Risotto with Meatballs in Just 6 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (Can substitute with ground turkey.); 0.5 lb Sweet Italian Sausage (Can substitute with spiced ground pork or chicken.); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder.); 0.5 cup Bread Crumbs (Gluten-free option available.); 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (For a sharper taste, use Pecorino Romano.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; can use garlic powder.); 1 tsp Coarse Salt; 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil.); 1 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (Use salted butter if preferred.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Diced; can substitute with leeks.); 1 medium Carrot (Diced.); 1 stalk Celery (Diced.); 1.5 cups Arborio Rice (Can substitute with Carnaroli rice.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetarian broth for a vegetarian version.); 2 cups Escarole/Kale/Spinach (Chopped; can substitute other leafy greens.)

The aroma of Italy wafts through my kitchen as I prepare a dish that feels like a warm hug—Instant Pot Italian Wedding Risotto with Meatballs. This unique recipe beautifully marries the heartiness of classic Italian wedding soup with the creamy comfort of risotto. What sets it apart is not just the tender meatballs nestled in velvety rice, but also the fact that you can whip it all up in a mere six minutes! Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a cozy night in, this dinner will undoubtedly impress without the stress. Plus, there’s a gluten-free option for those with dietary preferences! Are you ready to dive into a bowl of this comforting delight?

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Why is this Risotto a Must-Try?

Unmatched Convenience: With the Instant Pot, you can create this luxurious Wedding Risotto in just 6 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful experience, with juicy meatballs, aromatic vegetables, and rich Parmesan melding seamlessly into creamy risotto—comfort food at its finest!

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with gluten-free breadcrumbs or switch up the greens to suit your taste; there are plenty of ways to make it your own!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal!

Easy Prep: Minimal fuss means more time to relax and enjoy. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully; just add a splash of broth to keep it creamy, making it perfect for meal prep!

Wedding Risotto Ingredients

• For a rich, comforting experience, gather these key ingredients!

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef – A primary protein source; feel free to use ground turkey for a leaner version.
Sweet Italian Sausage – Infuses the dish with flavor and richness; can be substituted with spiced ground pork or chicken.
Large Egg – Acts as a crucial binder in the meatballs. No substitutions are required here.
Bread Crumbs – Provides much-needed texture; gluten-free breadcrumbs offer an option for those avoiding gluten.
Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor and adds richness; for a sharper taste, use Pecorino Romano.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth to the meatballs; fresh garlic or garlic powder both work well.
Coarse Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.

For the Risotto

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing veggies; can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if preferred.
Unsalted Butter – Gives the risotto a creamy finish; use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.
Yellow Onion, Carrot, Celery – Aromatic vegetables that form the flavor base; leeks can easily replace onions if desired.
Arborio Rice – The heart of the risotto, known for its creamy texture; you can substitute with Carnaroli rice.
Chicken Broth – The flavorful cooking liquid; vegetarian broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version.
Escarole/Kale/Spinach – Added at the end for nutrition and flavor; other leafy greens like Swiss chard can also work well.

With these Wedding Risotto ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a soul-soothing dish in no time!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Italian Wedding Risotto with Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine ground beef, sweet Italian sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Broil the meatballs in the oven for 5-6 minutes until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add diced yellow onion, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Toast Rice
Add 1 ½ cups of Arborio rice to the pot, stirring gently to coat the grains with the flavorful oils and vegetables. Toast the rice for about 1 minute until it becomes slightly translucent and aromatic, enhancing the overall flavor of your Wedding Risotto. Make sure to keep stirring to prevent sticking as you prepare for the next step.

Step 4: Cook Risotto
Cancel the ‘Sauté’ function and pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir well, making sure all the rice is submerged. Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ for 6 minutes. Once the cooking time is completed, let it naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, which helps to create a creamy texture in the risotto.

Step 5: Finish the Dish
Carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot and stir in additional ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped greens like escarole or spinach. The residual heat will wilt the greens perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired, and ladle the creamy Wedding Risotto into bowls, topping each with perfectly broiled meatballs and a sprinkle of extra cheese.

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How to Store and Freeze Wedding Risotto

Fridge: Store leftover Wedding Risotto in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: You can freeze risotto for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. This will help maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing Meatballs: If you have extra meatballs, freeze them separately for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven or a saucepan for a quick meal addition later.

Wedding Risotto Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists and swaps for your Wedding Risotto!

Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy, dairy-free touch.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in your meatballs and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free for a worry-free meal.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the risotto before cooking to pump up the heat.
Pasta Twist: Swap Arborio rice for orzo pasta for a different texture while keeping that comforting risotto feel. Just adjust the broth amount slightly!
Flavor Boost: Infuse your broth with fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking for an extra layer of flavor—remove before serving.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in seasonal vegetables during the sauté step, like zucchini or bell peppers, for more color and nutrition in every bite.
Savory Sweetness: Try adding a touch of balsamic glaze drizzled over the meatballs before serving for a delightful sweet finish.
Greens Galore: Experiment with assorted leafy greens like mustard greens or chard to create a more complex flavor profile.

These variations allow you to adapt your Wedding Risotto to fit your taste preferences while keeping that cozy, comforting essence that makes this dish so special. Don’t forget to check out our tips for meal prep or serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience!

What to Serve with Instant Pot Italian Wedding Risotto

Indulge in a comforting culinary experience with delightful pairings to elevate your meal time.

Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery delight that allows you to soak up every drop of delicious risotto broth.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances the creaminess of the risotto, adding a pop of color and nutrition.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, these veggies bring a charred sweetness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy and savory, these cheesy bites are a fabulous snack that echoes the flavors found within your risotto.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay will enhance the creamy textures while cutting through richness, making each bite sing.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert—its coffee and cocoa flavors provide a lovely contrast to the savory risotto.

Expert Tips for Wedding Risotto

Avoid Tough Meatballs: Ensure to mix the meatball ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs, so treat them kindly!
Perfect Rice Texture: Stir the Arborio rice well to coat it before adding broth. Toasting helps to develop a lovely, creamy Wedding Risotto texture.
Mind the Timing: When using the Instant Pot, the natural release is vital. It helps the flavors meld beautifully, so don’t skip this step!
Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap in your favorite leafy greens; just ensure they’re added at the end for optimal freshness and flavor.
Freshen Up Leftovers: When reheating, add a splash of broth to prevent the risotto from thickening too much. This keeps it creamy and delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Italian Wedding Risotto with Meatballs are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ground beef, sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper, then shaping them into balls and refrigerating them. For even quicker assembly, you can sauté the aromatic vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply broil the meatballs and proceed with the risotto instructions. To maintain the creamy texture, add a splash of broth when reheating. This way, you’ll have a delightful, home-cooked meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!

Instant Pot Italian Wedding Risotto with Meatballs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ripeness for the vegetables?
Absolutely! When selecting your vegetables, look for fresh, vibrant colors without any dark spots or bruises. For the onion, choose one that feels firm; carrots should be bright orange and crisp; celery should be firm with leafy top greens. A good rule of thumb is to pick veggies that feel heavy for their size, ensuring maximum flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover risotto?
Very simple! Store your leftover Wedding Risotto in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to avoid moisture buildup. When you’re ready to reheat, just add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency!

Can I freeze wedding risotto?
Of course! To freeze your Wedding Risotto, portion it into airtight freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth to keep it creamy.

What should I do if my risotto turns out too thick?
That’s a common worry, but don’t fret! If your risotto thickens too much while reheating, simply add a little chicken broth or water gradually and stir until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This technique also helps revive the flavors from when it was freshly made.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, definitely! To make this Wedding Risotto gluten-free, just substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free. Enjoy the comfort without any worries!

Can my pets share this dish?
It’s important to be cautious here! While the risotto itself contains healthy ingredients, meatballs seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper should not be shared with pets. Stick to plain cooked meat or veggies without additives if you’d like to share a treat with your furry friends!