Risotto is a technique, not a recipe: hot stock added a ladle at a time while you stir keeps the starch releasing into cream. The final beating of cold butter and cheese off the heat, the mantecatura, is what makes it glossy and loose.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep10 min
Cook30 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineItalian
Cost$$$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains dairy
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Arborio rice
A short-grain risotto rice; its starch is the whole sauce, so do not rinse it.
Toast the riceSoften diced onion in butter, add the dry rice and stir 2 minutes until the edges turn translucent. Deglaze with wine until absorbed.
Add stock slowlyAdd hot stock one ladle at a time, stirring, waiting until each is nearly absorbed before the next. Stir in the saffron stock partway through.
Cook to al denteKeep going 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is creamy but still has a slight bite at the center, loose enough to spread on the plate.
MantecareOff the heat, beat in cold cubed butter and the Parmesan hard until glossy. Rest a minute, then serve so it spreads when it hits the plate.
Can you make Risotto alla Milanese in an air fryer? — Sometimes
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Risotto alla Milanese? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Risotto alla Milanese ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Risotto alla Milanese gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Risotto alla Milanese vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Community Notes
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