Name: Cheesy Butternut Squash Rice With Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup white rice (such as basmati or jasmine); 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 225g (1/2 pound) large shrimp, thawed and tails removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

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This Cheesy Butternut Squash Rice with Shrimp is a cozy, nourishing dinner that combines creamy parmesan rice with tender butternut squash and perfectly sautéed shrimp. Seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, it’s a hearty and flavorful dish that comes together in under an hour. Comforting yet light, this recipe is a great way to enjoy seasonal squash with a satisfying protein.

Cheesy Butternut Squash Rice With Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting fall flavors while still being balanced and nutritious. The butternut squash adds natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins, while the shrimp delivers lean protein. It’s versatile—you can swap in chicken, steak, or a plant-based protein—and it reheats beautifully for meal prep. Plus, everything cooks in just 45 minutes, making it a practical weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the butternut squash rice:

olive oil
garlic, minced
butternut squash, cubed
dried rosemary
dried thyme
salt and pepper
white rice (such as basmati)
vegetable broth
parmesan cheese, freshly grated

For the sautéed shrimp:

large shrimp, thawed and tails removed
olive oil
salt and pepper

Directions

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil and garlic; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Stir in butternut squash, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add rice and vegetable broth. Stir, bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to low heat. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Meanwhile, pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Set aside.
Once the rice mixture is done, stir in freshly grated parmesan until creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve rice in bowls, topped with sautéed shrimp. Enjoy warm.

Servings and timing

Yield: 2 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Protein swap: Replace shrimp with chicken thighs, steak strips, or tofu.
Cheese variation: Use pecorino romano or gruyere for a different cheesy flavor.
Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
Spiced twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for a different depth of flavor.
Whole grain option: Substitute brown rice or farro, adjusting cooking time and liquid as needed.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. This recipe is not ideal for freezing, as rice and cheese may change texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, just warm them briefly in the skillet until heated through to avoid overcooking.

What type of rice works best?

A long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best for fluffy texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the shrimp or replace with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or seared tofu.

Do I need to peel the butternut squash?

Yes, peeling ensures a tender texture. Pre-cut squash also works well for convenience.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Absolutely, chicken broth will add extra depth of flavor.

How do I prevent mushy rice?

Follow the package instructions for rice-to-liquid ratios, and avoid over-stirring while simmering.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

What if my rice isn’t cooked after 20 minutes?

Add a few tablespoons of extra broth or water and continue cooking until tender.

Is fresh parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and has more flavor than pre-grated varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers would pair beautifully with the flavors.

Conclusion

Cheesy Butternut Squash Rice with Shrimp is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you want a hearty yet healthy meal. With its creamy rice, sweet squash, and savory shrimp, it delivers a complete dinner in under an hour. Easy to customize and ideal for meal prep, this recipe is bound to become a weeknight favorite.