Baked Tomato Mozzarella Basil Risotto

Baked tomato mozzarella basil risotto is a creamy, flavorful dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of juicy tomatoes, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

* 1 cup arborio rice * 2 tablespoons olive oil * 1/2 cup chopped onion * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional) * 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth * 1 cup chopped tomatoes * 1/2 cup chopped mozzarella cheese * 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil * Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. 3. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice becomes translucent. 4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until the liquid has been absorbed. 5. Gradually add the chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Cook until all of the liquid has been absorbed before adding the next cup. 6. Stir in the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 7. Transfer the risotto to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 8. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until the risotto is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. 9. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

* For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. * If you don't have dry white wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth. * For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the mozzarella cheese. * To make the risotto ahead of time, cook it according to the instructions and then let it cool completely. Store the risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the risotto in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Variations

* Add other vegetables to the risotto, such as peas, corn, or zucchini. * Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Asiago. * Top the risotto with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Conclusion

Baked tomato mozzarella basil risotto is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It's easy to make and can be customized to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a special meal to impress your friends and family, give baked tomato mozzarella basil risotto a try!