Toss Italian sausage and rice into a slow cooker for a lip-smacking comforting dish
Slow cooker sausage risotto is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of risotto with the savory goodness of Italian sausage. This dish is perfect for a busy lifestyle, as it allows you to enjoy gourmet flavors with minimal effort. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into every aspect of preparing, cooking, and perfecting slow cooker sausage risotto. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this article will provide you with all the information you need to create this delicious meal.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 5 cloves |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound (casings removed) |
| Arborio rice | 2 cups |
| White wine | ½ cup |
| Chicken broth/stock | 4½ cups |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup (grated) |
| Butter (cold) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Half-and-half (optional) | 1 cup |
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula, and cook until well-browned.
- Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors.
- Deglaze the Pan
- Pour the white wine into the skillet to deglaze the pan, stirring until all the little bits on the bottom are lifted.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker
- Pour the sausage mixture into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth or stock.
- Cook the Risotto
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2½ hours, until the rice is tender.
- Finish and Serve
- After 2½ hours, add the grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of cold butter, stirring until the cheese and butter are melted and fully incorporated.
- For extra creaminess, stir in the optional half-and-half.
- Serve the risotto, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
