Name: Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini for Cozy Autumn Evenings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Risotto (Ensure it's cooled to avoid mushiness.); 1 cup Roasted Butternut Squash (Mashed, can be substituted with pumpkin or sweet potato.); ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated, use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.); 1 tbsp Fresh Sage (Minced, substitute with thyme if not available.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free substitute if necessary.); 2 pcs Eggs (Beaten, or flax eggs for vegan option.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko for crunch, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used.); Oil for Frying (Options include avocado, canola, or peanut oil.); Marinara or Brown Butter with Sage (For serving, use marinara for traditional approach.)

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As the crisp autumn air sets in, I find myself craving those warm, hearty flavors that only comfort food can bring. Enter Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini—golden, crispy rice balls that are not just a feast for the eyes, but a delightful culinary experience too. These vegetarian bites are an ode to the season, boasting the subtle sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the earthiness of fresh sage. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they come together quickly and can easily be adapted to suit gluten-free or vegan diets. Whether you choose to fry them for that perfect crunch or bake them for a lighter option, these arancini will surely become a cozy favorite in your kitchen. Curious to discover how to make these delectable treats? Let’s dive in!

Why Try Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini?

Comforting, cozy flavors: These arancini harness the essence of autumn, combining sweet butternut squash with aromatic sage for a heartwarming experience.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, your friends and family will devour these delightful bites!
Versatile options: Whether you opt to bake or fry, you’ll find a method that suits your lifestyle. Plus, explore variations for unique twists!
Easy to whip up: Simple ingredients and a straightforward process mean you can enjoy homemade goodness without fuss.
Diet-friendly: This recipe can be easily adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Discover more about accommodating dietary needs with our gluten-free tips to make this dish accessible to all!

Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini Ingredients

For the Risotto Base
• Cooked Risotto (2 cups) – Provides the base and texture; ensure it’s cooled to avoid mushiness.
• Roasted Butternut Squash (1 cup, mashed) – Adds sweetness and body; can be substituted with pumpkin or sweet potato.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Brings richness and flavor; use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
• Fresh Sage (1 tbsp, minced) – Infuses an earthy aroma and flavor; substitute with thyme if not available.

For Coating and Binding
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup, or GF substitute) – Aids in coating to create a crisp exterior; gluten-free flour can be used as a replacement.
• Eggs (2, beaten, or flax eggs for vegan) – Binds the mixture and the coating; for vegan, use 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup, panko for crunch) – Creates a crispy outer layer; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used.

For Frying and Serving
• Oil for Frying – Provides the frying medium; options include avocado, canola, or peanut oil.
• Marinara or Brown Butter with Sage (for serving) – Complements the arancini flavors; use marinara for a traditional approach or brown butter for a gourmet twist.

Embrace the magic of comfort food with these Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini—your cozy autumn evenings will never be the same!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini

Step 1: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked risotto, mashed butternut squash, grated Parmesan, and minced sage. Stir until the ingredients form a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture. This forms the flavorful base of your Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini. If the mixture feels too loose, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up before proceeding.

Step 2: Shape the Arancini
Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to roll it into golf ball-sized spheres, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. You should yield around 12 arancini. Arrange them on a plate or cutting board. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly with water to make shaping easier.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up your workstation by placing three shallow bowls in a row: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. This setup will help you coat each arancini piece evenly. Make sure to fully cover each rice ball to achieve that beautiful crispy exterior once fried.

Step 4: Coat the Arancini
Begin with the first rice ball, rolling it thoroughly in the flour to coat. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is well covered. Repeat this process for all arancini, placing the finished balls back on the plate as you go, ready for frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-frying thermometer for accuracy. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. To ensure they fry evenly, work in batches, frying only 4-5 arancini at a time to avoid overcrowding the pot.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place the coated arancini into the hot oil, frying them for about 3-4 minutes until they achieve a rich golden-brown color and are crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the temperature, adjusting the heat if necessary to maintain the ideal frying conditions.

Step 7: Drain and Cool
Once the arancini are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil. Let the arancini cool slightly for a few minutes while you prepare your dipping sauce of choice.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the hot Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini alongside warm marinara sauce or drizzle with sage-infused brown butter. The contrast of flavors and textures makes each bite irresistible. Whether as a cozy dinner or festive appetizer, savor these delightful treats!

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini

Cold Risotto Magic: Use cooled risotto for shaping; hot risotto can make the mixture too sticky and challenging to handle.
Baking Option: If you prefer a lighter alternative, bake arancini at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even crisping.
Perfect Frying Temperature: Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to prevent sogginess. Too hot can burn the outside before the inside cooks.
Chill Before Frying: If your mixture feels wet, chill it longer in the fridge. This prevents breakage during frying and ensures perfect texture.
Reheating Leftovers: For optimal crispiness, reheat arancini in an air fryer or oven instead of the microwave. You’ll love the crunch!
Experiment with Dips: Enhance your butternut squash & sage arancini by serving them with different dipping sauces like garlic aioli or a zesty chimichurri.

Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini Variations

Unlock a world of flavors and textures with these delightful variations for your arancini!

Gooey Center Surprise: Place cheese cubes in the center of each ball before coating for a melty experience. Imagine biting into a crisp exterior, only to discover a warm, cheesy surprise inside. It’s a game-changer!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the risotto mixture. This twist will add delightful warmth, creating an exciting bite that dances on your palate.
Mediterranean Twist: Introduce sun-dried tomatoes and replace Parmesan with feta for a tangy, flavorful spin. The combination of earthy sage and tangy feta brings a new life to these autumn delights.
Breakfast Arancini: Add crumbled sausage and swap sage for thyme; serve with maple syrup for a sweet and savory brunch treat. Imagine this hearty snack kicking off your weekend in style!
Nut-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed nuts like pecans for a different crunch. This variation not only adds flavor, but also gives your arancini a delightful texture contrast.
Vegan Delight: Use extra firm tofu blended with nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and flax eggs for binding. These variations ensure plant-based friends can enjoy every crispy bite!
Herb Fusion: Mix in a blend of herbs like rosemary or basil alongside sage for a fresh pop of flavor. The aromatics will elevate your arancini to new heights!
Crispy Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat lightly with oil and bake at 425°F until golden brown for a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Enjoy that crispy crunch without the extra guilt!

For more tips on how to adapt recipes to fit dietary needs, check out our gluten-free tips as you make these delightful variations yours!

What to Serve with Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini?

Embrace the comforting essence of autumn by creating a hearty meal around these delightful bites, offering warmth and flavor that dazzles your taste buds.

Creamy Risotto: A comforting extension of flavors, creamy risotto provides a delightful and velvety contrast to the crunchy arancini.
Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the arancini, adding a refreshing crunch.
Tomato Soup: Pairing with a warm bowl of smoky tomato soup enhances the comforting vibes while complementing the dish’s savory notes.
Marinara Sauce: A classic for a reason, serving warm marinara for dipping amplifies the deliciousness of the crispy arancini with each bite.
Brown Butter Sauce: Drizzling sage-infused brown butter brings depth and richness, highlighting the smoothness of the butternut squash within.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes offer a sweet, buttery side that elevates the savoriness of the arancini.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cleanses the palate, countering the richness of the meal beautifully.
Herbaceous Tea: A soothing cup of thyme or rosemary tea enhances the aromatic flavors of the dish, creating a cozy dining atmosphere.
Pumpkin Cheesecake: For dessert, light and spiced pumpkin cheesecake rounds off the meal perfectly, echoing the autumn theme while ending on a sweet note.

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini

Fridge: Store leftover butternut squash & sage arancini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-fried arancini on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Whether frozen or refrigerated, fry directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly crispy results.

Chilling Mixture: If the mixture feels too sticky, chill it longer in the fridge before shaping to prevent breakage during frying.

Make Ahead Options

These Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen. You can prepare the risotto mixture and shape the arancini up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. For optimal quality, ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat the oil and fry them straight from the fridge for about 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Not only does this streamline your meal prep, but it also allows you to serve delicious arancini with minimal effort on hectic days!

Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select a ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When searching for a ripe butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size. The skin should be tan or cream-colored with a matte finish. Avoid any squash with dark, soft spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage.

How should I store leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini?
Very! Once cooled, keep leftover arancini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them and maintain their crispy exterior, try placing them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer texture!

Can I freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, place your un-fried arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to 3 months. Fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time for deliciously crispy results.

What should I do if my arancini mixture is too sticky to shape?
No worries! If your mixture feels too wet, it’s best to chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls. If you’re still having trouble, wet your hands slightly while shaping to prevent sticking.

Are there any dietary considerations with Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini?
Very! This recipe is quite adaptable; for a gluten-free version, swap out all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. If you’re looking for a vegan option, replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use flax eggs in place of regular eggs. Always ensure all manufacturers’ labels are checked for allergens!

What can I serve with Butternut Squash & Sage Arancini?
Great question! Serve these delightful bites alongside a fresh arugula salad for a light meal or pair them with a bowl of hearty tomato soup for a comforting combo. You can also provide a variety of dipping sauces—think garlic aioli, marinara, or even a tangy chimichurri for a fun twist!