Northern Italian risotto with luganega sausage and creamy beans is pure comfort food. This high protein mediterranean family dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for chilly evenings.
In a large heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the luganega sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until nicely browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer sausage with a slotted spoon to a plate and keep warm.
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp butter. Sauté the chopped onion over medium-low heat for 3 minutes until soft and translucent; add the minced garlic and rosemary, stirring for 1 minute just until fragrant.
Add the Arborio rice and stir gently for 2 minutes, allowing the grains to toast but not color. Pour in a ladle (about ½ cup) of hot broth, stirring and keeping the heat at medium. Let the liquid absorb before adding the next ladle, stirring frequently.
Continue adding broth gradually. After 10 minutes, return the sausage to the pan and fold in the cannellini beans. Adjust heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer, and keep stirring to create creaminess without sticking.
When rice is creamy and al dente (after 18-20 minutes), remove from heat. Stir in the remaining butter, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and season with salt and pepper. Cover the pan and let stand for 2 minutes before serving immediately.