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.
Jump to RecipeIna 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

How To Make Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe
- Make the risotto mixture: Combine risotto, egg, Parmesan, scallions or chives, salt, pepper, and ½ cup panko in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Form into patties: Shape the mixture into small cakes, about 2½ inches wide and ¾ inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Coat in breadcrumbs: Gently press both sides of each cake into the remaining panko for a crispy crust.
- Chill the cakes: Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- 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.
- Serve hot: Serve warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

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

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.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Hot Dogs In Puff Pastry Recipe
- Ina Garten Cauliflower Toast Recipe
- Ina Garten Spinach Puff Pastry Recipe
Ina Garten Risotto Cakes Recipe
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes10
minutes210
kcalCrispy, 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.
