Tomato and mascarpone risotto is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich and creamy without being heavy, tangy with just the right amount of sweetness, and packed with slow-cooked flavor. It’s the perfect meal when you want something cozy but still a little special.
The base of the dish is classic risotto-Arborio rice slowly cooked in broth until it’s tender and creamy. But instead of the usual butter-and-Parmesan finish, this version gets a flavor upgrade with ripe tomatoes and a generous spoonful of mascarpone cheese. The result is a silky, tomato-forward risotto with a subtle tang and luxurious texture.
The tomatoes add brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the mascarpone. You can use fresh cherry tomatoes that burst into the rice as they cook, or canned tomatoes for a more concentrated, saucy flavor. A touch of garlic, onion, and maybe a few chili flakes gives it depth, while fresh herbs like basil or thyme bring it to life at the end.
Mascarpone is the secret ingredient that makes this dish shine. It melts effortlessly into the risotto, adding a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Unlike heavier cheeses, mascarpone adds richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
This risotto works well as a vegetarian main dish, but you can also serve it as a side alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. It’s great for entertaining because it feels elegant but approachable, and it always looks beautiful on the plate with that vibrant tomato color and creamy finish.
Whether you’re cooking for guests or just craving something comforting and a little indulgent, tomato and mascarpone risotto is the kind of meal that satisfies on every level.
Ingredients
- 150 grams Arborio rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 400 grams chopped tomatoes canned or fresh
- 750 ml vegetable stock kept warm
- 100 grams mascarpone cheese
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Basil leaves optional, fresh
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice with oil.
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes and cook for a further 2 minutes.
- Begin adding the warm vegetable stock to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition of stock to be absorbed before adding the next. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the mascarpone cheese until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition
I followed the recipe exactly, but it was too tomatoey for my taste. Next time, I’ll cut back on the tomatoes.
I get what you’re saying! Maybe using less tomatoes would help balance it out. I didn’t find it too tomatoey myself, but everyone has their taste! 😊
Yum! I added some shrimp too for a little twist. Super delicious!
Shrimp? Wow, that sounds like a great addition! I never thought of that. Definitely gonna try it next time!
I mean, shrimp and risotto? That’s kinda weird, right? But hey, if you like it, all good for you I guess.
Honestly, it took forever to cook! Maybe I’m doing it wrong, but mine was still crunchy after 25 min. Not impressed.
Made this for dinner last night and my whole family devoured it! So easy and tasty!
I’m so glad to hear that! It’s a great recipe for a family dinner. Did you add any extra ingredients?
Really? I found it kinda bland. Did you use fresh tomatoes or just canned ones?
This is dangerously tasty. I’m usually skeptical of tomato risotto, but the method plus mascarpone totally works. I’ll definitely repeat this.
This was ok, but I think it could use more flavor. Maybe add some herbs or spices?
I totally agree! I added some Italian seasoning and it made a huge difference. Definitely try that!
More flavor? I thought it was too much already. Maybe your taste buds are just different.
Made this tonight—super creamy and not too fussy. The mascarpone at the end is the magic touch. I used fresh tomatoes and it still turned out great. Will definitely repeat!
Yes! The mascarpone really does make it extra creamy without a ton of fuss. I love that you used fresh tomatoes too—must add such great flavor.
I followed it exactly and somehow my risotto turned out a bit thick. Could’ve been the stock temperature or my ladling speed. Still ate it all though 😅
It was okay, but I found it a bit too rich with the mascarpone. Next time I might skip that and just stick with the basics.
I get what you mean! I also feel like less mascarpone will let the tomato flavor shine more. 🙂
Is it realy necessary to stir constantly? I got tired and let it sit too long. Oops! 😅