As I diced the vibrant butternut squash, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, transporting me to warm autumn evenings spent around my family’s dinner table. That’s when I first encountered the enchanting allure of Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto—a perfect medley of flavors and textures that has since become my go-to comfort food. Ideal for cozy nights and festive gatherings, this vegetarian dish melds the nutty sweetness of roasted squash with the creamy richness of Arborio rice and Parmesan cheese. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also quick to whip up, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings. Curious about how to recreate this warm, inviting dish that so beautifully captures the essence of fall? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why is Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto a Must-Try?

Comforting: This risotto is the definition of cozy; it wraps you in warmth with each creamy bite, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

Nutty Sweetness: The roasted butternut squash adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese.

Quick and Easy: Even novice chefs can master this dish, as it requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! Swap butternut squash for pumpkin or sweet potatoes, or add crispy pancetta for an extra savory punch.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

Pair it with a refreshing arugula salad for a balanced meal or try it alongside Chicken Alfredo Pasta for a delightful banquet of flavors!

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto Ingredients

• Get ready to create comfort in a bowl with these essential ingredients for your Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto.

For the Risotto

  • Arborio Rice – The star of the dish that becomes wonderfully creamy as it cooks.
  • Butternut Squash – Adds a sweet, nutty flavor; be sure to peel, seed, and dice for even roasting.
  • Vegetable Broth – Provides a delicious depth of flavor; keep it warm for proper cooking.
  • Onion – Enhances the overall flavor; finely chop and sauté until translucent.
  • Garlic – Adds aromatic goodness; mince and sauté to release its delightful essence.

For the Finishing Touches

  • Parmesan Cheese – Infuses richness and umami; grate it for easy mixing into the risotto.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and drizzling; it elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
  • Sage Leaves – Fresh and fragrant, they add a lovely herbal note; chop to distribute flavor evenly.
  • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; always adjust according to your taste preferences.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the peeled, seeded, and diced butternut squash with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread the pieces out evenly and roast them for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and nicely caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth
In a medium saucepan, warm up your vegetable broth over low heat. Keep the broth covered to maintain its warmth, as this will help the risotto cook evenlyl and become creamy. Having warm broth ready will make it easier to incorporate into the Arborio rice later.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This base will set the stage for rich flavors in your Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto.

Step 4: Toast the Arborio Rice
Next, stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring each grain is coated in the aromatic oil mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously until it becomes slightly translucent. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture characteristic of a good risotto, as it prepares the rice to absorb the broth.

Step 5: Add Broth Gradually
Begin incorporating the warm vegetable broth by adding a ladleful to the rice. Stir constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding another ladleful. Continue this process for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the rice to cook slowly. The goal is to achieve a creamy and slightly al dente texture while enjoying the wonderful aroma of your Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Once the rice is cooked to your liking, gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage leaves. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined and the cheese melts into the risotto, creating a luscious, creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and get ready to serve this delightful dish while it’s still hot.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To prevent separation, let it cool fully before freezing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water; this restores the creamy texture of your delicious risotto.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked risotto out for more than 2 hours, as it can spoil; store it promptly for the best flavor and safety.

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and make this dish truly yours!

  • Pumpkin Swap: Replace butternut squash with pumpkin for a slightly different, yet equally delicious flavor.

  • Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile and add aromatic depth to the dish.

  • Savory Addition: Toss in crispy pancetta or bacon to bring a savory crunch that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.

  • Nutty Crunch: Consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a satisfying crunch and extra texture to your risotto.

  • Cheese Lovers: Swap out Parmesan for goat cheese or feta, introducing a tangy kick that complements the sweet squash.

  • Vegan Version: For a dairy-free dish, omit cheese and use nutritional yeast instead. It adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy!

  • Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the flavor.

  • Luxury Touch: Finish the dish with a drizzle of truffle oil for a decadent twist that impresses during special occasions or dinner parties.

Whichever variations you choose, this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto will always deliver a comforting, heartwarming experience. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple arugula salad or a comforting dish like Honey Pepper Cheese for a delightful culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

  • Warm Broth: Always keep your vegetable broth warm while cooking; adding cold broth can shock the rice and hinder proper creaminess in your Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto.

  • Stir Often: Frequent stirring is key! It releases the rice’s starches, creating that velvety texture. Avoid the urge to leave it unattended for too long.

  • Monitor Consistency: Risotto thickening too much is common. If it does, add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture when reheating.

  • Taste and Adjust: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your palate, as this enhances the flavors throughout the dish.

  • Herb Variations: For an aromatic twist, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. They complement the butternut squash beautifully and elevate the dish.

Make Ahead Options

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is a fantastic dish for meal prep! You can roast the butternut squash and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can sauté the onion and garlic, then refrigerate this mixture for up to 24 hours—this helps save time during the cooking process. When you’re ready to enjoy your risotto, simply start by heating your broth, then combine the sautéed aromatics, Arborio rice, and broth as usual. To maintain the creamy texture, remember to stir continuously while gradually adding the broth. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Transform your delightful risotto into a full meal with these flavorful pairings that enhance the cozy experience.

  • Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the risotto, adding a refreshing crunch.
  • Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken complement the nutty sweetness of the butternut squash deliciously, making it a satisfying addition.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy texture and slightly bitter taste contrast beautifully with the creamy risotto, adding depth to your meal.
  • Savory Garlic Bread: Pairing risotto with warm, buttery garlic bread provides a wonderful textural contrast to the dish, perfect for soaking up every creamy bite.
  • Sauteed Spinach: This vibrant green side, drizzled with olive oil, adds color and essential nutrients while balancing the richness of the risotto.
  • Crispy Pancetta: For extra savory depth, sprinkle crispy pancetta over your risotto, elevating flavors with its salty crunch and delightfully contrasting texture.
  • White Wine: A nice glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc brings out the flavors of the risotto, creating an elegant dining experience as you savor each bite.

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe butternut squash?
Look for a butternut squash that has a smooth, pale yellow skin and is firm to the touch. The stem should be intact, without any dark spots or blemishes. A heavy squash suggests it has plenty of sweetness inside—a sure sign of ripeness!

What is the best way to store leftover risotto?
Absolutely! You can store leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing. For reheating, I recommend adding a splash of broth or water to help restore its creamy consistency!

Can I freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the risotto to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a bit of broth or water to revive its creaminess.

Why is my risotto not creamy?
If your risotto is not creamy, it might be due to adding cold broth or not stirring enough. The starches in Arborio rice need consistent exposure to heat and moisture to release their creaminess. Remember to keep your broth warm and stir often! If it’s too thick, gently add a splash of broth while reheating.

Is this risotto safe for my pets or if I have allergies?
While the ingredients in Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto are generally safe for most humans, it’s important to note that garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. For allergies, always check individual ingredients, especially dairy if you’re serving this to others. A great alternative could be using a plant-based cheese for lactose intolerance!

How should I enhance the flavors of my risotto?
To elevate your Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary at the end for a fragrant twist. You could also toss in crispy pancetta or toasted nuts, which provide saltiness and crunch that beautifully contrast with the creamy texture. The more the merrier!

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto for Cozy Autumn Evenings

This Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is a comforting vegetarian dish that's perfect for cozy nights and festive gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice The star of the dish that becomes wonderfully creamy as it cooks.
  • 1 medium Butternut Squash Peel, seed, and dice for even roasting.
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Keep it warm for proper cooking.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chop and sauté until translucent.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Mince and sauté to release its delightful essence.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grate it for easy mixing into the risotto.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Used for sautéing and drizzling.
  • 5 leaves Sage Leaves Chop to distribute flavor evenly.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the peeled, seeded, and diced butternut squash with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread the pieces out evenly and roast them for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and nicely caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
  2. In a medium saucepan, warm up your vegetable broth over low heat. Keep the broth covered to maintain its warmth, as this will help the risotto cook evenly.
  3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring each grain is coated in the aromatic oil mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously until it becomes slightly translucent.
  5. Begin incorporating the warm vegetable broth by adding a ladleful to the rice. Stir constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding another ladleful. Continue this process for approximately 20 minutes.
  6. Once the rice is cooked to your liking, gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage leaves. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!