Butternut Squash Risotto with Parmesan Recipe

Butternut Squash Risotto with Parmesan: A Creamy Fall Favorite

Nothing captures the essence of autumn quite like a bowl of butternut squash risotto. This luxurious dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich, creamy texture that makes risotto so beloved. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of earthy flavors and velvety smoothness that feels like a warm hug on a crisp fall evening.

While risotto might seem intimidating, this recipe breaks down every step to help you create restaurant-quality results at home. We’ll also share some fantastic Amazon kitchen tools that can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this butternut squash risotto will quickly become your go-to comfort food.

What is Butternut Squash Risotto?

Risotto originated in Northern Italy during the 14th century and has since become one of the world’s most beloved rice dishes. The secret lies in using short-grain Arborio rice, which releases starch gradually as you stir, creating that signature creamy texture without any cream.

Butternut squash adds a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color to traditional risotto. This winter squash contains subtle nutty undertones that pair beautifully with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. When roasted, butternut squash develops a caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender, almost buttery interior that melts seamlessly into the rice.

The combination creates a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting—perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night at home.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious butternut squash risotto:

For the butternut squash:

• 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the risotto:

• 1½ cups Arborio rice
• 6 cups warm vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final dish. Arborio rice is essential for achieving the proper creamy texture—regular long-grain rice simply won’t work. The warm broth helps maintain consistent cooking temperature, while the white wine adds acidity that balances the squash’s sweetness. Fresh Parmesan provides that nutty, salty finish that elevates the entire dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the butternut squash
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.

Step 2: Heat your broth
Pour vegetable broth into a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat. This prevents shocking the rice with cold liquid, which can stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Start the risotto base
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Toast the rice
Add Arborio rice to the pan and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes. The rice should become translucent around the edges but remain white in the center. This toasting step adds depth of flavor.

Step 5: Add wine and begin stirring
Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed. Begin adding warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until each addition is nearly absorbed before adding the next.

Step 6: Continue cooking
Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes. The rice should be tender but still have a slight bite. Fold in the roasted butternut squash during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Finish with richness
Remove from heat and stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and fresh sage. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.

Amazon Product Recommendations

The right kitchen tools can transform your risotto-making experience from tedious to enjoyable. Here are three Amazon favorites that will make this recipe even better:

Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven
This heavyweight champion provides exceptional heat retention and even cooking—crucial for perfect risotto. The cast iron maintains consistent temperature, preventing hot spots that can cause rice to stick or cook unevenly. Its spacious interior gives you plenty of room for stirring without splashing.

OXO Good Grips Wooden Spoon
Constant stirring is non-negotiable for creamy risotto, so you need a spoon that feels comfortable in your hand. This ergonomically designed wooden spoon features a comfortable grip that won’t fatigue your hand during the 20-minute stirring process. The wooden material won’t scratch your cookware or conduct heat.

Cuisinart Food Processor
Prepping butternut squash can be time-consuming and challenging with its tough skin. This powerful food processor makes quick work of cubing squash and can also help you achieve perfectly minced garlic and onions. The consistent sizing ensures even cooking throughout your risotto.

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Customization Options

This versatile recipe adapts beautifully to different dietary needs and flavor preferences:

For vegetarians: The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly when made with vegetable broth.

For vegans: Replace butter with olive oil and substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese. The nutritional yeast provides a similar umami depth.

Additional flavors to try:

• Mushrooms: Sauté cremini or shiitake mushrooms and fold them in with the squash
• Pancetta: Add crispy pancetta for a smoky, salty contrast
• Toasted pine nuts: Sprinkle on top for added texture and nutty flavor
• Fresh thyme: Swap sage for thyme for a more subtle herb note

Serving Suggestions

This rich risotto pairs beautifully with lighter accompaniments that won’t compete with its creamy texture:

Wine pairings:

• Chardonnay: The buttery notes complement the dish perfectly
• Pinot Grigio: A crisp white that cuts through the richness
• Light Pinot Noir: For red wine lovers, choose something with bright acidity

Side dishes:

• Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest

Read More: Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs

Your New Fall Favorite Awaits

Butternut squash risotto with Parmesan represents everything wonderful about seasonal cooking—it’s warming, satisfying, and showcases ingredients at their peak. The combination of sweet butternut squash, creamy Arborio rice, and sharp Parmesan creates a harmony of flavors that feels both elegant and comforting.

Don’t let the stirring intimidate you. Think of it as a meditative process that allows you to watch your dish transform from simple ingredients into something truly special. Each stir releases more starch, creating that signature velvety texture that makes risotto so irresistible.

We’d love to hear about your risotto adventures! Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out. Consider picking up those recommended Amazon tools to make your cooking experience even more enjoyable—the right equipment really does make a difference. Share your own creative variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us when you post your beautiful butternut squash risotto creations on social media.