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Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe

4.8 from 63 reviews

This Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto is a creamy, flavorful dish combining the natural sweetness of oven-roasted butternut squash with the rich texture of Arborio rice cooked slowly in vegetable broth. Enhanced with sautéed onions, garlic, white wine, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting vegetarian meal perfect for autumn or anytime you crave a hearty, satisfying risotto.

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Butternut Squash

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Risotto

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh sage leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat and roast squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. Sauté aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft.
  3. Add garlic and rice: Stir in the minced garlic and Arborio rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice lightly and develop flavor.
  4. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the wine has evaporated, infusing the rice with its flavor.
  5. Cook risotto with broth: Gradually add the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time. Stir frequently, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid slowly before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, approximately 18-20 minutes.
  6. Combine squash and cheese: Gently fold the roasted butternut squash pieces and grated Parmesan cheese into the risotto. Stir to combine well and heat through.
  7. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the risotto garnished with fresh sage leaves for an aromatic finish.

Notes

  • Use warm broth to ensure even cooking and maintain the creamy texture of risotto.
  • Stirring frequently helps release the starch from the rice, producing the characteristic creamy consistency.
  • Feel free to substitute Parmesan with a vegetarian-friendly cheese if desired.
  • Fresh sage can be lightly sautéed before garnishing for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Leftover risotto can be cooled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Keywords: roasted butternut squash risotto, vegetarian risotto, creamy risotto, Italian comfort food, fall recipes, roasted squash, Arborio rice dish