Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese

Name: Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 medium-sized beets, roasted and diced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely adore making Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese because it combines earthy flavors with a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. The vibrant color of the beetroot not only adds visual appeal but also packs each serving with nutrients. This dish has become a staple in my home, especially during gatherings since it impresses my guests while being easy to prepare. The marriage of tangy goat cheese and sweet beets creates a harmony that I can't get enough of, making each bite a delightful experience.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:34:36.188Z

When I first tried Beet Risotto, I was amazed at how the sweet, earthy flavor of the beets transformed the dish. I made a few adjustments to a classic recipe by incorporating fresh herbs and using homemade vegetable broth for an added depth of flavor. The creamy consistency of the risotto perfectly complements the tanginess of the goat cheese, which I usually add just before serving for that rich, velvety finish.

One tip I highly recommend is to toast the Arborio rice in the pan before adding the broth. This step enhances the nuttiness of the rice and ensures that the grains remain al dente. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant color that brightens up any table
A perfect balance of earthy beets and creamy goat cheese
A comforting dish that's equally suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Beet Risotto plays a crucial role in not just flavor, but also texture. Arborio rice is essential for achieving that creamy consistency. Its high starch content allows the risotto to become velvety as it cooks. If you can't find Arborio, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice are great alternatives, offering similar results while ensuring the dish remains true to its Italian roots.

The earthy sweetness of the roasted beets harmonizes beautifully with the tanginess of goat cheese. Roasting the beets enhances their natural sugars, making them sweeter and more flavorful. You can roast the beets in advance to save time; just wrap them in foil and bake at 400°F for about an hour until fork-tender. This not only deepens their color but also brings out a richer flavor that elevates the dish.

Perfecting Your Risotto Technique

Making risotto requires patience and attention. The gradual addition of broth is key to allowing the rice grains to release their starch and absorb the flavors fully. Stir frequently, and let each addition of broth absorb almost completely before adding the next. This process should take around 18-20 minutes. Perfectly cooked risotto will be creamy but still have a slight bite (al dente) in the center.

If your risotto becomes too thick or sticky, adding a splash of warm water or broth can help adjust the consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too runny, continue cooking on low heat for a couple more minutes while stirring. A good risotto should form a ribbon when you drag the spoon through it, signifying it's ready to be served.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 medium-sized beets, roasted and diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Make sure to prepare the beets in advance for ease of cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the Beet Risotto:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir, coating it with the oil. Cook for about 2 minutes until the risotto starts to look slightly translucent.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the dry white wine and continue to stir until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.

Add Broth Gradually

Start adding the vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.

Incorporate Beets and Cheese

Once the rice is creamy and slightly al dente, fold in the diced roasted beets and crumbled goat cheese. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the risotto into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley or chives, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pair this risotto with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Pro Tips

Experiment with adding other toppings like toasted nuts or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this Beet Risotto in advance, it's best to prepare the dish without the goat cheese. Risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. When you're ready to serve it, gently reheat with a splash of broth or water, stirring over low heat until warmed through and creamy again.

Freezing cooked risotto can change its texture, but it's possible if done carefully. Portion out individual servings in freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop with some added liquid to restore its creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful serving twist, consider topping your Beet Risotto with toasted nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, which will add a nice crunch and additional flavor. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also provide a beautiful contrast to the creamy risotto and enhance the overall presentation.

You can easily vary this recipe by incorporating sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, for added nutrition and color. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, adding cooked mushrooms or other seasonal vegetables can create a more robust flavor profile while maintaining the balance of creaminess and earthiness that makes this dish so special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this risotto vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based toppings.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

While you can, brown rice will require a longer cooking time and won't yield the same creamy texture.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You could substitute the goat cheese with feta or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.