Pork and Pea Risotto with Parmesan is a warm, comforting, and deeply flavorful dish that brings together creamy Arborio rice, savory pork, sweet green peas, and rich Parmesan cheese. This recipe pairs rustic Italian cooking with hearty protein, making it both elegant and satisfying. Risotto is known for its luxurious texture, and when combined with tender pork and peas, it becomes a complete, wholesome meal perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or cozy evenings at home.

The richly flavored broth, slow simmering, and constant stirring transform simple ingredients into something exceptional. Every spoonful offers creaminess, bursts of sweetness from the peas, and savory depth from the seared pork and Parmesan. This dish celebrates balance, comfort, and classic Italian technique while remaining approachable even for beginner cooks.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it elevates everyday ingredients into something truly special. The creamy risotto provides the perfect base for the juicy pork, creating a dish layered with complex flavors yet simple enough to make any day of the week. The peas add a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole meal.

I also love how therapeutic the cooking process feels. Stirring the risotto, watching it gradually become creamier, and adding broth slowly is incredibly satisfying. You are rewarded with a dish that feels like it came straight from a cozy Italian kitchen. The combination of textures and flavors makes this risotto unforgettable and worth making again and again.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it beautifully blends convenience with gourmet appeal. Risotto often seems intimidating, but this version is straightforward and nearly foolproof. You don’t need expensive ingredients or complicated techniques to achieve restaurant-quality results.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the protein, add vegetables, or incorporate different cheeses. The balance of creamy rice, savory meat, and fresh peas makes this a universally appealing dish, perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories Approximately 520 calories per serving
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Pork

1. 300 g pork tenderloin or pork loin, diced into small cubes
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon salt
4. ½ teaspoon black pepper
5. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
6. ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the Risotto

1. 1½ cups Arborio rice
2. 1 tablespoon butter
3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
4. 1 small onion, finely chopped
5. 3 garlic cloves, minced
6. 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
7. ½ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute broth)
8. 1 cup frozen peas
9. 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
10. ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
11. ¼ teaspoon black pepper
12. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for brightness)
13. Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

For the Pork

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the diced pork with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
3. Sear the pork for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

For the Risotto

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot.
2. Add onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in Arborio rice and toast for 1 minute.
5. Pour in white wine and cook until absorbed.
6. Begin adding warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously.
7. Add more broth only when the previous addition is absorbed.
8. After 15 minutes, stir in peas.
9. Continue adding broth until rice is creamy and al dente.
10. Stir in cooked pork, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and season to taste.
11. Remove from heat and allow risotto to rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pork

Dice pork into small cubes so it cooks quickly and evenly. Heat a skillet with olive oil, season the pork, and sear until browned. This ensures flavorful, tender pieces to mix into the risotto later.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add garlic to release its aroma and deepen flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice and stir constantly for about a minute. Toasting helps the rice absorb flavors and achieve a creamy texture.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in white wine and cook until it evaporates. This step adds acidity and balance, enhancing the richness of the risotto.

Step 5: Add Broth Gradually

Warm the broth in a separate pot. Add it slowly to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly to release the starches that create the creamy texture.

Step 6: Add Peas and Continue Cooking

Add peas partway through cooking. They add color and sweetness without overcooking.

Step 7: Combine the Pork and Parmesan

Once the rice reaches a creamy, al dente texture, fold in the seared pork and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Allow the risotto to rest briefly before serving so it thickens slightly and becomes even creamier.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the risotto hot in shallow bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. This meal also goes well with a glass of white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Recipe Tips

1. Warm the broth before adding; cold broth stops the cooking process.
2. Stir consistently but gently for the best texture.
3. Use fresh grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded, for smoother melting.
4. Don’t overcook the pork; small cubes cook quickly.
5. If the risotto becomes too thick, add a splash of broth before serving.
6. For a richer dish, add a knob of butter at the end.

Variations

Mushroom Pork Risotto

Add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness and depth.

Lemon Herb Risotto

Increase lemon juice and add fresh basil or thyme for brightness.

Pork and Spinach Risotto

Fold in fresh spinach at the end for a nutritious twist.

Creamy Pork Risotto with Mascarpone

Add 2 tablespoons of mascarpone cheese for a luxurious, velvety finish.

Spicy Pork Risotto

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or chopped chili to the sautéed onion step.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Risotto can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Freeze portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently with added broth to restore creaminess.

Storage for Pork

Cooked pork can be refrigerated separately for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

1. Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
2. Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
3. Frying pan for searing pork
4. Ladle for adding broth
5. Small pot to warm the broth
6. Sharp chef’s knife

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, pork tenderloin or pork loin works best, but you can also use leftover cooked pork.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, replace wine with extra broth.

Do I have to stir constantly?

Stir frequently, but not nonstop. Consistent stirring ensures creaminess.

Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly and do not require thawing beforehand.

Why is my risotto too thick?

Add more warm broth until you reach the desired creaminess.

Can I substitute Arborio rice?

Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are also excellent for risotto.

Conclusion

Pork and Pea Risotto with Parmesan is a comforting and elegant dish that brings together creamy rice, savory pork, and bright, sweet peas. With its rich texture and balanced flavors, this recipe is perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers gourmet results, making it a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful, and beautifully crafted dishes. Enjoy the warm, satisfying experience that only a good risotto can provide.