I’m excited to share my favorite butternut squash risotto recipe. It’s a perfect fall comfort dish that’s creamy and delicious. This recipe is a game-changer, with a rich and velvety texture that will become a staple in your kitchen.
The key to a great creamy butternut squash risotto is using fresh sage and high-quality ingredients. I’ll outline these below.
The recipe serves 4 portions and takes about 115 minutes to prepare. You’ll need 3.5 pounds of butternut squash, 2 cups of arborio rice, and 3.75 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. I’ll guide you through the process, from roasting the squash to finishing it with unsalted butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Key Takeaways
- This butternut squash risotto recipe serves 4 portions and can be prepared in 115 minutes.
- The recipe requires 3.5 pounds of butternut squash and 2 cups of arborio rice.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth is used to create a creamy and flavorful butternut squash risotto.
- Fresh sage is essential for adding a unique and delicious flavor to the dish.
- The recipe can be finished with unsalted butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for a rich and creamy texture.
- This creamy butternut squash risotto is perfect for a fall comfort meal, and its leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
The Magic of Butternut Squash Risotto
Exploring butternut squash risotto reminds me of the easy butternut squash risotto recipes I love. It combines roasted butternut squash, Arborio rice, and broth for a dish that’s both cozy and fancy. With the best butternut squash risotto recipe, you can make it creamy and full of flavor, impressing everyone.
To make a great butternut squash risotto, start with the right ingredients. Roast the butternut squash at 180-200 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes, flipping it every 8-10 minutes. This brings out its sweetness. Then, sauté shallots and garlic for 3 minutes before adding the Arborio rice. This step is key for a solid base.
- Use fresh sage leaves and real parmesan cheese for the best taste.
- Add broth slowly, stirring constantly to keep it creamy.
- Don’t overcook the risotto, as it can become mushy.
By following these tips and using quality ingredients, you can make an easy butternut squash risotto that everyone will love. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a hit in Italian restaurants. It’s perfect for any occasion, from special dinners to cozy weeknights.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Results
To make a delicious homemade butternut squash risotto, you need a few key ingredients:
The butternut squash is a must. It should be fresh and of the best quality. You’ll also need Arborio rice, sage, and vegetable broth. For a vegetarian butternut squash risotto, use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese instead.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups of brown Arborio/short-grain brown rice
- 1 medium butternut squash (approximately 1.5 pounds)
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- Fresh sage leaves
With these ingredients, you can make a creamy and tasty homemade butternut squash risotto. It’s great for a vegetarian butternut squash risotto dish.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty butternut squash risotto, you need the right tools. A big skillet or Dutch oven is key. It helps cook the risotto evenly. I like using a Staub Dutch Oven for its heat and looks.
For the butternut squash, a food processor or blender is handy. It makes pureeing the squash easy. You can do this ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a day. For the butternut squash risotto with sage butter, you’ll also need a chef’s knife, cutting board, and measuring cups.
Must-Have Items
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Food processor or blender
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Immersion blender
- Stand mixer
- Rice paddle
With these tools, you’re ready to make a creamy butternut squash risotto. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently, adding a bit of liquid if it gets too thick.
Preparing Your Butternut Squash
To make a tasty butternut squash risotto recipe, you need to prep the squash right. You’ll need 2 cups (240g) of squash, which is about 6.67% of a whole squash. First, peel the squash and cut it into cubes. Use about 4 cups (525 g) of squash, cut into ½ inch dice.
Then, roast the squash in the oven to enhance its sweetness. This step is key for a creamy butternut squash risotto with great flavor and texture. Roast the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. After roasting, it’s ready for your risotto.
Here’s a quick guide to prep the butternut squash:
- Peel the squash
- Cut it into cubes
- Roast the squash in the oven
By following these steps, you’ll be all set to make your butternut squash risotto recipe. Enjoy a delicious and creamy butternut squash risotto dish.
The Complete Step-by-Step Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe
To start, prepare the squash by roasting it in the oven until it’s deep golden brown. This takes about 20 minutes. Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender or food processor.
Next, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped shallot and cook until it’s translucent. Then, add the Arborio rice and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add white wine and cook until it’s fully absorbed.
Start adding the broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly. Allow each cup to absorb before adding the next.
While cooking, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of turmeric for color. You can also add cooked bacon or sage for extra flavor. Finish by stirring in heavy cream and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Some tips for making this risotto include using high-quality ingredients. Fresh squash and real Parmesan cheese are best. Stir the risotto constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan. You can also customize it by adding different spices or herbs, like chili powder or thyme.
Master Tips for Creamy Risotto Success
To make a creamy homemade butternut squash risotto, start with the right ingredients. Use Arborio rice, which is perfect for absorbing liquid and becoming creamy. Also, choose a high-quality vegetable broth and add it slowly, stirring constantly to avoid mushy rice.
For a vegetarian butternut squash risotto, add flavor with roasted vegetables and cheeses. Try using butternut squash and a mix of parmesan and pecorino romano. For extra creaminess, add unsalted butter and grated cheese.
Here are more tips for a creamy homemade butternut squash risotto:
- Grated cheeses like parmesan and pecorino romano add depth.
- A splash of dry white wine enhances flavor and aroma.
- Use quality vegetable broth and add it slowly, stirring constantly.
Follow these tips and use the right ingredients for a creamy vegetarian butternut squash risotto. It will impress everyone at your table.
Delicious Variations to Try
As I keep trying new things with my favorite delicious butternut squash risotto recipe, I’ve found that mixing it up can make it even better. One of my top picks is adding a bit of sage flavor. It complements the butternut squash’s sweetness, making a butternut squash risotto with sage butter that’s irresistible.
Changing things up is easy. You can swap out ingredients or add new ones. For instance, using different squash types like acorn or kabocha can alter the taste and feel. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes or add freshness with parsley.
- Adding some crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist
- Using vegan butter to make the dish dairy-free
- Adding some roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for added flavor and nutrition
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make this delicious butternut squash risotto recipe your own.
Storing and Reheating Your Risotto
To keep your butternut squash risotto recipe fresh, store it right. Experts say risotto can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Cool it fast and put it in a sealed container to keep it creamy and flavorful.
When you reheat, add a bit of water or stock to keep it creamy. Steaming, as Blue Apron suggests, also works well to keep it moist. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your risotto:
- Store risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water or stock to maintain creaminess.
- Try steaming the risotto for a moist and creamy texture.
Risotto can dry out fast in the fridge, so reheat it carefully. By following these tips, you can enjoy your butternut squash risotto recipe for longer. It will stay creamy and flavorful.
With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy your butternut squash risotto recipe for days. It will stay creamy and delicious.
Perfect Wine Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Choosing the right wine can make your butternut squash risotto even better. A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio is a great choice. It matches the creamy risotto and its subtle flavors. For a different twist, try a butternut squash and goat cheese risotto with a light red or rosé.
There are many wines that go well with butternut squash risotto. Here are a few:
- Pinot Grigio: a crisp white wine that suits the creamy risotto
- Chardonnay: a buttery white wine that enhances the dish’s rich flavors
- Rosé: a fruity pink wine that balances the butternut squash’s sweetness
To make the meal complete, add some side dishes like roasted veggies or a green salad. You can also garnish with fresh sage or grated cheese for a fancy touch.
For specific wine suggestions, try the 2013 Punta Crena Pigato or the 2013 Chateau les Valentines Le Caprice de Clémentine Les Valentines Côtes de Provence Rosé. Both have a 12.5% ABV and complement the risotto’s creaminess. Experimenting with different wines will help you find the perfect match for your dish.
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Autumn Dinner
As we wrap up this journey through the homemade butternut squash risotto recipe, I hope you’re excited to make your own delicious butternut squash risotto. This dish is great for any cozy fall dinner, whether it’s a big party or a quiet night in.
To make this risotto stand out, focus on using the best ingredients and paying close attention to every step. Roasting the butternut squash right and stirring the risotto slowly will give you a creamy, tasty dish. Serve it with a crisp white wine, fresh focaccia, and a side of seasonal veggies for a truly autumnal meal.
So, dive into the autumn flavors and make your own homemade butternut squash risotto. With a bit of effort, you’ll have a dish that will be a favorite in your fall cooking collection. Bon appétit!