As the crisp autumn air wraps around us, there’s nothing quite like gathering family and friends for a warm, comforting meal. This Butternut Squash and Corn Risotto embodies everything we love about fall: the vibrant colors, the rich flavors, and the sense of togetherness. Every bite blends creamy risotto with sweet corn kernels and roasted butternut squash, evoking the coziness of a rustic, autumnal table. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the heart of the home – the kitchen – and fills the air with aromatic delight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Moderate
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a large saucepan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the arborio rice to the pan, stirring to coat each grain with oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, until slightly golden.
- Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Begin adding the warmed vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue until the rice is creamy and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the roasted butternut squash and corn kernels, cooking for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and thoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the risotto hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Helpful Tips
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter and Parmesan cheese with vegan alternatives.
- To save time, you can roast the butternut squash a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- If you prefer a bit of extra crunch, top the risotto with toasted pumpkin seeds.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to regain the creamy consistency.
Pairings
This Butternut Squash and Corn Risotto pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or a plate of grilled vegetables.
We’d love to see your take on this cozy autumn recipe! Share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Let us know how it turned out by leaving a comment on our website here. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow us on social media for more delicious inspirations!