A warm and velvety dish that brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich creaminess of arborio rice. Finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs, this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is an ideal comfort meal for fall or winter, offering both elegance and coziness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This risotto is a wonderful way to highlight the deep, nutty flavor of butternut squash while delivering the creamy, luxurious texture that defines a great risotto. It’s perfect for a satisfying meatless main or a refined side dish. Roasting the squash enhances its flavor, while the slow addition of broth builds a rich consistency. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday table, this recipe is both nourishing and sophisticated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth, warm
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 tsp nutmeg for warmth

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until soft and golden.
2. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and arborio rice. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to lightly toast the rice.
4. Pour in the white wine, if using, and stir until it is fully absorbed by the rice.
5. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for 18–20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy.
6. Stir in the roasted butternut squash, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs or Parmesan if preferred.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Top with seared scallops, grilled chicken, or roasted chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
• Dairy-free option: Use plant-based butter and omit or substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• Different squash: Substitute kabocha or acorn squash if butternut is unavailable.
• Herb variations: Swap parsley for sage or thyme for a more autumnal flavor.
• Wine substitute: If skipping wine, add a splash of extra broth with a teaspoon of lemon juice for acidity.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may affect texture. Risotto is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well with proper moisture adjustment.

FAQs

Can I use a different rice for this risotto?

Arborio rice is ideal due to its high starch content, but carnaroli or vialone nano are also excellent choices for authentic risotto texture.

Do I need to roast the butternut squash first?

Roasting enhances the squash’s sweetness and adds depth of flavor, but you can also steam or sauté it if short on time.

Is white wine necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds acidity and complexity, but you can replace it with more broth and a bit of lemon juice.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, thaw and pat dry before roasting or adding to the risotto to avoid excess moisture.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be tender but still slightly firm in the center, and the mixture should be creamy and slightly loose.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Risotto is best fresh, but you can par-cook it and finish with broth and squash just before serving to save time.

What herbs pair well with this risotto?

Parsley, sage, thyme, or chives all complement the flavor of butternut squash.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use vegan butter and cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether and adjust seasoning accordingly.

How can I make this risotto more flavorful?

Sauté a pinch of fresh sage with the onion, or stir in a spoonful of mascarpone for extra richness.

Is this risotto gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on broth and cheese to ensure no additives contain gluten.

Conclusion

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to your table with every bite. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with protein, it offers a satisfying blend of textures and seasonal taste. With its simple ingredients and rich character, this risotto is a timeless dish that’s both easy to love and impressive to serve.

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