🔥 Featured Remote Opportunity

Get Paid $25–$50/hr Just Replying to Messages

Explore flexible online chat opportunities paying $25–$50/hr — no phone calls and no experience required.

  • ⚡ Start immediately if qualified
  • 💬 Reply to messages online
  • ⏰ Choose flexible hours
  • 🏠 Work remotely from home
See Available Chat Positions →

⏱ Takes under 60 seconds • Availability updates daily

🎁 TEMU $0 KITCHEN GIFTS

6 Kitchen Finds You May Be Able to Get for $0

Temu is currently showing these kitchen products as $0 gifts for eligible app users with qualifying orders. Tap any item below to check the current offer.

🎁 $0 gift availability may vary. Offers shown are for eligible Temu app users with qualifying orders. Tap a product to see current eligibility, pricing and terms.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you use links on this page.

Creamy Butternut Squash Rice Recipe for Easy Dinners

Creamy Butternut Squash Rice Recipe for Easy Dinners

Creamy Butternut Squash Rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish that brings warmth to your table. This easy recipe combines fluffy white rice with a creamy butternut squash puree, creating a delightful balance of texture and taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a cozy accompaniment to your favorite main dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy rice dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. With its vibrant color and rich flavor, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal!

  • Comforting: The creamy texture makes it a cozy addition to any meal.
  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
  • Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables.
  • Nutritious: Butternut squash adds vitamins and minerals to your plate.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

How to Make Creamy Rice with Butternut Squash

  1. Begin by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the white rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  2. While the rice is cooking, prepare the butternut squash. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  3. Once the squash is cooked, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency. If you want an extra creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream.
  4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently fold in the butternut squash puree until evenly combined.
  5. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Ensure the butternut squash is cooked until tender for a smooth puree.
  • Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for creaminess.
  • Use fresh basil for a burst of flavor, but feel free to substitute with parsley or thyme if desired.

Easy Variations

  • For a touch of sweetness, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the butternut squash puree.
  • Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
  • Swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

What to Serve With It

  • Grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.
  • Roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
  • Pan-seared fish for a light and flavorful pairing.
  • A side salad for a fresh and crunchy contrast.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Creamy Butternut Squash Rice
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Instructions:

  1. Begin by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the white rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  2. While the rice is cooking, prepare the butternut squash. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  3. Once the squash is cooked, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency. If you want an extra creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream.
  4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently fold in the butternut squash puree until evenly combined.
  5. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.

Notes: Adjust the seasoning and creaminess to your liking. Enjoy!

Scroll to Top