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Creamy Non-Traditional Butternut Squash Risotto

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A luxurious and creamy risotto that uses roasted butternut squash puree for a rich, velvety texture without the traditional long simmering of raw vegetables. This efficient method delivers rustic flavor and perfect al dente grains.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • Olive oil, for tossing squash
  • Salt and pepper, for seasoning squash
  • 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • 5–6 cups vegetable or chicken broth, kept hot
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 6–8 fresh sage leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender, then mash or blend into a smooth puree.
  2. While squash roasts, bring broth to a gentle simmer in a saucepan and keep warm on low heat.
  3. In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 5 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add Arborio rice and stir constantly for 2 minutes until edges are translucent and rice smells nutty.
  5. Pour in white wine and stir until completely evaporated.
  6. Add hot broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and waiting for absorption before adding more. Cook for 18-20 minutes until rice is al dente.
  7. Fold in squash puree, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and heavy cream (if using). Remove from heat.
  8. Stir in Parmesan cheese, cover, and let rest for 2 minutes before serving with fried sage leaves.

Notes

Roasting the squash concentrates sugars and adds nutty depth compared to boiling. Keep broth hot to ensure even cooking. Stir frequently to release starch for creaminess. Risotto thickens as it cools; add splash of hot water or broth to loosen if needed. Do not freeze as rice becomes grainy.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash risotto, creamy risotto, vegetarian dinner, winter squash recipe, arborio rice, gluten-free option, cozy dinner

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/creamy-non-traditional-butternut-squash-risotto/