Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

This Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe is crispy and cheesy, which includes cooked risotto and Parmesan cheese. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just about 50 minutes with chill time.

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Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked risotto (cooled)
  • 1 extra-large egg
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup minced scallions or chives
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

How To Make Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

  1. Make the risotto mixture: Combine risotto, egg, Parmesan, scallions or chives, salt, pepper, and ½ cup panko in a large bowl. Mix well.
  2. Form into patties: Shape the mixture into small cakes, about 2½ inches wide and ¾ inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Coat in breadcrumbs: Gently press both sides of each cake into the remaining panko for a crispy crust.
  4. Chill the cakes: Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  5. Fry the cakes: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry cakes in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve hot: Serve warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • How to keep risotto cakes from falling apart:
    Chilling the cakes for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking.
  • Can I use leftover risotto?
    Yes! This recipe is perfect for using up day-old risotto.
  • What cheese works best?
    Parmesan is traditional, but Pecorino Romano or Gruyère also taste great.
  • Can I bake instead of fry?
    Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Make-ahead tip:
    Form and chill the cakes up to a day in advance.

What To Serve With Risotto Cakes

These savory cakes make a great starter or light meal. Try serving with:

  • Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Tomato soup
  • A poached egg on top for brunch
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

How To Store Risotto Cakes

Refrigerate:
Store cooked cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze:
Freeze uncooked or cooked cakes for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.

Risotto Cakes Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: ~210 per cake
  • Protein: ~7g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~12g
  • Saturated Fat: ~5g
  • Cholesterol: ~45mg
  • Sodium: ~280mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a crispier texture.

Do I need to use egg?
Yes, egg helps bind the mixture and hold the cakes together.

Can I add vegetables or meat?
Yes, finely chopped cooked mushrooms, spinach, or pancetta work well.

What’s the best oil for frying?
Use olive oil for flavor or a neutral oil like canola for higher heat cooking.

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Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

210

kcal

Crispy, golden risotto cakes made with Parmesan and herbs—perfect for brunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked risotto (cooled)

  • 1 extra-large egg

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ¼ cup minced scallions or chives

  • ½ tsp kosher salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (divided)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Directions

  • Mix risotto, egg, cheese, herbs, salt, pepper, and ½ cup panko.
  • Shape into patties, 2½ inches wide.
  • Press into remaining panko.
  • Chill for 30 minutes.
  • Fry in olive oil and butter for 3–4 minutes per side.
  • Serve warm with extra Parmesan or herbs.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.