Creamy Parmesan milk rice (Milk Risotto) is a beloved Italian classic. Cook rice in milk and fold in butter and Parmesan for a simple yet decadent dish.

Picture this: a steaming bowl of creamy, comforting rice that warms you from the inside out. That’s the magic of Parmesan milk rice (“Risotto al Latte” in Italian), a classic Italian dish that’s both simple and indulgent. You’re about to discover how to make this ultimate comfort food right in your own kitchen. Get ready to transform humble ingredients into a velvety, cheesy delight that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re battling the winter blues or just craving some culinary TLC, this dish has got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the delicious world of creamy Parmesan milk rice!

The Origins and History of Creamy Parmesan Milk Rice

Parmesan milk rice, a comforting Italian classic, has roots that stretch back centuries. This creamy, indulgent dish evolved from simple peasant fare into a beloved staple across Italy and beyond.

Ancient Beginnings

Rice cultivation in Italy dates to the Middle Ages, introduced by Arab traders. Initially, rice was primarily used medicinally. However, by the 14th century, it had become a dietary staple, especially in northern regions like Lombardy and Piedmont.

From Humble to Haute Cuisine

As dairy farming flourished alongside rice paddies, combining the two became natural. Peasants discovered that cooking rice in milk created a creamy, filling meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese, a regional specialty, elevated the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.

Over time, Parmesan milk rice transitioned from rustic comfort food to a refined delicacy. Today, you’ll find variations of this dish in homes and restaurants throughout Italy, each region adding its unique twist to this timeless classic.

How to Make Parmesan Milk Rice

Risotto is a classic Italian rice dish that is typically made with broth, but it can also be prepared with milk for a rich, creamy texture. This milk-based risotto makes for a delightful side dish or even a comforting main course. Here are the steps to make delicious risotto al latte (risotto with milk):

4 Ingredients for the Perfect Parmesan Milk Rice

To create the ultimate comfort dish of Parmesan milk rice, you’ll need just 4 simple yet high-quality ingredients plus salt:

240 g (1 ¼ cup) Arborio (or Carnaroli) rice — The star of the show is, of course, the rice itself. Opt for a short-grain variety like Arborio or Carnaroli, which will give your dish that creamy texture we’re after.
750 ml (3 cups plus 2 tbsp) whole milk — The milk forms the base of your cooking liquid, infusing the rice with richness as it simmers.
70 g (about 3/4 cup) Parmesan cheese + more to garnish — Parmesan brings a nutty, savory depth that elevates the dish.
40 g (¼ stick plus 1 tbsp) butter — Butter adds a velvety smoothness.
Salt to taste

Milk Risotto Video Recipe

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Parmesan Milk Rice

Creating the perfect Parmesan milk rice is an art, but with these simple steps, you’ll be savoring this comforting Italian classic in no time.

Cooking the Rice

In a large saucepan, pour in the milk and add the salt. Bring the milk just to a simmer over medium heat, being careful not to let it boil over.

Once the milk is steaming hot, add the rice. Stir the rice into the milk, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the risotto to cook at a bare simmer, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking or scorching on the bottom of the pan.

As the rice absorbs the milk, it will slowly release its starches, creating a creamy sauce. Continue cooking and stirring until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite in the center, about 18-22 minutes total.

Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated and the risotto has a smooth, velvety consistency.

Adding the Finishing Touches

Serve the Milk Risotto immediately while hot, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy this comforting, creamy rice dish as a tasty side or main course.

Variations and Tips for Milk Risotto with Parmesan

This classic Italian rice dish offers several delicious variations and customizations. Follow these tips to tailor the recipe to your preferences:

Butter-Free Option: You can omit the butter entirely and serve the rice pudding with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil instead of melted butter.

Cinnamon Twist: Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the finished dish for a warm, aromatic flavor profile.

Lactose-Free Alternative: Substitute lactose-free milk to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerances.

Pastina Variation: Instead of rice, you can use small pasta shapes like “pastina” or “acini di pepe” for a different textural experience.

Creamy Indulgence: For an ultra-rich and creamy Parmesan Milk Rice, replace half of the milk with heavy cream.

How to store Parmesan Milk Risotto Leftover

If you find yourself with leftover Parmesan Milk Risotto, storing it properly is key to preserving its flavor and texture.

Allow the risotto to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent the formation of condensation, which can affect the texture. Transfer the cooled risotto into an airtight container and place in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume the leftover risotto within 2 to 3 days for optimal taste and quality.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover risotto, add a splash of milk to the risotto before reheating it. This helps to loosen the texture and restore its creamy consistency. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.