Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of comfort food. My Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto strikes the perfect balance between decadence and hearty nourishment, all while being vegetarian and gluten-free if you choose. This dish not only embraces the flavors of autumn with its sweet, nutty squash but also offers an indulgences-like creaminess that envelops each grain of Arborio rice. Plus, its quick prep time makes it a no-fuss option for cozy evenings, whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a quiet night at home. Ready to discover how this risotto can transform your chilly nights into something special? Let’s dive into the comforting world of creamy goodness! Why is This Risotto a Must-Try? Creamy Comfort: This Butternut Squash Risotto envelops you in a velvety texture, making it the ultimate comfort food for cold evenings. Seasonal Delights: Featuring the seasonal sweetness of butternut squash, it transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Flexible & Fun: Feel free to substitute with pumpkin or sweet potatoes, offering versatility to suit your taste. Quick Prep: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish brings gourmet flair to your table without the fuss. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it appeals to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Save and Enjoy: Leftovers? No problem! They store well and can be reheated to maintain that creamy goodness, so you won’t waste a single bite. Enjoy alongside a light salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal that your loved ones will cherish. Butternut Squash Risotto Ingredients For the Risotto Base Arborio Rice – This special rice variety gives the risotto its creamy texture as it releases starch during cooking. Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish; make sure to dice it into small, even-sized cubes for uniform cooking. Vegetable Broth – Provides flavor; opt for gluten-free broth if preferred to keep the dish gluten-free. Onion – A vital base ingredient that adds depth and sweetness when sautéed. Garlic – Fresh garlic provides a fragrant kick, enhancing the overall flavor of your risotto. For Adding Creaminess Grated Parmesan Cheese – Brings a salty, savory finish; feel free to substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version. Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and adding richness; use extra virgin for the best flavor. For Flavor Enhancements Fresh Sage Leaves – Offers herbal notes that pair beautifully with the squash; you can use thyme as a flavorful alternative. Salt and Pepper – Key for seasoning to taste; adjust these ingredients to elevate the flavor profile of your Butternut Squash Risotto. With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a warm and delightful dish that will warm your soul on those chilly nights! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto Step 1: Roast the Squash Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, until golden and tender, stirring halfway through to ensure even caramelization. Step 2: Prepare Broth While the squash roasts, pour your vegetable broth into a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture in your butternut squash risotto, as adding cold broth will slow down the cooking process. Step 3: Sauté Base Vegetables In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, ensuring the flavors form a savory base for your risotto. Step 4: Add Rice Stir in the Arborio rice, mixing it with the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes until the grains are slightly translucent and well-coated with the oil. This step helps toast the rice, unlocking its starches, which will enhance the creaminess of your finished butternut squash risotto. Step 5: Incorporate Broth Gradually Now, begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until each ladleful is almost fully absorbed before adding the next, which should take around 20 minutes. Keep stirring until the rice is creamy and al dente, absorbing all those delicious flavors. Step 6: Combine Ingredients Once the rice reaches a creamy consistency, gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, grated parmesan, and chopped fresh sage. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the squares of squash are evenly distributed throughout the risotto, enhancing both flavor and texture. Step 7: Serve Plate your creamy butternut squash risotto hot. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil over the top or sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese. The risotto should have a velvety texture, inviting you and your loved ones to dig into this comforting seasonal dish. How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Risotto Fridge: Store leftover risotto in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore its creamy consistency. Freezer: If you’ve made a larger batch, freeze the risotto in portions for up to 2 months. Place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Always reheat risotto on low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to help bring back its creamy texture. Stir continuously as it warms for even heating. Serving Fresh: While you can store it, fresh butternut squash risotto is best enjoyed right away to fully appreciate its creamy goodness and flavors. Make Ahead Options These Butternut Squash Risotto components are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can roast the butternut squash and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply toss the cubes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, roast, and then let them cool before transferring to an airtight container. Additionally, you can prep your broth in advance and keep it warm in a saucepan until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté your onions and garlic, add the Arborio rice, and gradually incorporate the prepped broth and squash, stirring continuously for a creamy finish—just as delicious as if made fresh! What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto Indulge in the warm, inviting flavors of a full meal that perfectly complements this creamy risotto. Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich risotto, balancing the meal effortlessly. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread complements the creaminess of the risotto, making every bite deliciously satisfying. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy texture provide a delightful counterpoint to the softness of the risotto, enhancing your dining experience. Grilled Chicken Breasts: Tender, seasoned chicken adds protein and hearty flavor, making it the perfect companion for a filling dish like risotto. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: This simple side adds a touch of color and earthy flavors, creating a well-rounded plate with nutritional benefits. White Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will brighten up every bite, with citrusy notes that harmonize beautifully with the savory and sweet flavors of the dish. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: For dessert, this sweet and spiced treat mirrors the flavors in your risotto, providing a satisfying finish for a cozy meal. Crispy Polenta Cakes: Their hearty texture and subtle corn flavor enhance the comforting feel of the meal, pairing well with the creamy risotto. Braised Lamb Shanks: For the meat lovers, tender lamb shanks offer rich, savory undertones that harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the butternut squash. Expert Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Risotto Continuous Stirring: Keep stirring the rice consistently when adding broth to release the starch, ensuring your butternut squash risotto achieves that signature creamy texture. Right Rice Choice: Always use Arborio rice for the best results; other rice varieties won’t create the same creaminess and structure, leading to a less satisfying dish. Seasonal Adjustments: Feel free to swap butternut squash with pumpkin or sweet potatoes for a delicious twist; just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed. Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process; this step is key for enhancing the flavors in your risotto. Serve Promptly: Risotto is best served immediately after cooking, so have your plates ready! If you need to store leftovers, reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess. Butternut Squash Risotto Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this risotto with these delightful twists! Pumpkin Swap: Replace butternut squash with pumpkin for a change in flavor and an extra boost of fall vibes. It’s delicious and adds vibrant color! Sweet Potato Twist: Switch out the squash for sweet potatoes. The sweetness pairs beautifully, offering a different texture that’s equally comforting. Savory Transition: For a meaty addition, add crispy pancetta or sausage while sautéing the onions. This infusion enhances the umami, taking your risotto to new heights. Mushroom Magic: Stir in sautéed mushrooms—like cremini or shiitake—before adding the broth for an earthy depth of flavor that complements the creaminess. Herb Haven: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different aromatic profile. Their fragrances will elevate your dish beautifully. Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne while sautéing the onions. This will add warmth that contrasts well with the sweetness of the squash. Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving to add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy texture of the risotto. Vegan Delight: Swap the grated Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that is completely dairy-free yet still savory and satisfying. These variations not only keep the dish exciting but can also cater to different dietary needs or preferences, making your Butternut Squash Risotto a versatile delight that everyone will love! Enjoy creating your signature version, perhaps with a side of a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing finish. Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe butternut squash? Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for a firm, smooth skin with a deep tan color. Avoid any squashes with dark spots or blemishes, as they indicate overripeness. The stem should be dry and intact, signifying freshness. A good rule of thumb is to pick one that feels heavy for its size. How should I store leftover risotto? Very! Store leftover butternut squash risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation. When reheating, add a splash of broth to help restore its creamy texture. Can I freeze butternut squash risotto? Absolutely! If you have extra risotto, portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Leave some room at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When ready, reheat on low heat with a bit of broth or water, stirring continuously to maintain creaminess. What can I do if my risotto turns out too thick? If your risotto is too thick, don’t fret! Simply add a little warm broth or water, a few tablespoons at a time, while stirring. This will help loosen it up. Keep stirring to evenly distribute the moisture until you reach your desired consistency. Is this risotto gluten-free? Yes! You can easily make this butternut squash risotto gluten-free by using vegetable broth that is labeled as gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden gluten. If you’re using cheese, make sure it’s gluten-free as well. Can I use different types of squash for this recipe? Very much! Feel free to substitute butternut squash with pumpkin or sweet potatoes for a delightful variation. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, and ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Experimenting is half the fun, so go ahead! Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto that Warms Your Soul This Butternut Squash Risotto is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for chilly nights, embracing seasonal flavors and serving vegetarian wellness. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 platesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Risotto Base1 cup Arborio Rice Special rice for creamy texture.2 cups Butternut Squash Diced into small, even-sized cubes.4 cups Vegetable Broth Use gluten-free for gluten-free option.1 medium Onion Chopped.2 cloves Garlic Minced.For Adding Creaminess0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with nutritional yeast for vegan version.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin preferred.For Flavor Enhancements5 leaves Fresh Sage Can substitute with thyme.to taste Saltto taste Pepper Equipment OvenMixing bowlsaucepanHeavy-Bottomed PanBaking sheet Method Cooking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes.Heat vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat.In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion for 4-5 minutes, then add garlic and sauté another minute.Stir in Arborio rice for about 2 minutes until slightly translucent.Gradually add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed, about 20 minutes.Fold in roasted butternut squash, parmesan, and sage. Stir to combine.Serve hot, drizzling with olive oil or additional parmesan as desired. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
