Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe
	
	
		A creamy and comforting Butternut Squash Risotto featuring roasted squash, creamy Parmesan, and tender arborio rice, perfect as a hearty vegetarian main or side dish.
	 
	
		
							- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Roasting, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
 
	
		
		
			Vegetables
- 1 small butternut squash, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
Grains and Broth
- 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
Dairy and Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasonings
		 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Sauté the Onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Toast the Rice: Add the arborio rice to the pan with the sautéed onions and stir to coat the grains in oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the edges become slightly translucent.
- Gradually Add Broth: Begin adding the warmed vegetable broth one ladleful at a time to the rice. Stir frequently, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.
- Roast the Butternut Squash: While the risotto cooks, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
- Combine and Finish: Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir well to combine and melt the cheese and butter into a creamy texture. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- Use warm broth to ensure even cooking and a creamy risotto texture.
- Roasting the squash enhances its natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish.
- Stirring constantly helps release the rice’s starch for creaminess.
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
- Serve immediately as risotto can thicken upon standing.
 
	 
	
		Nutrition
		
							- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
 
	
		Keywords: Butternut Squash Risotto, vegetarian risotto, creamy risotto, roasted butternut squash, Italian comfort food