Abstract Pure Cu2O nanoparticles (NPs) and graphene modified Cu2O nanostructures using graphene oxide (GO) as precursor for support were fabricated by a facile liquid phase dispersion method. The prepared samples were characterized by using XRD, FE-SEM and TEM. XRD studies confirmed the formation of cubic phased Cu2O NPs. FE-SEM micrographs revealed the formation of spherical Cu2O NPs. TEM micrographs demonstrated the successful incorporation of Cu2O NPs on the two-dimensional graphene sheet. The catalytic performance of the prepared nanostructures was evaluated for the reductive transformation of nitrophenols to aminophenols. The significant enhancement in the catalytic efficacy was observed by the immobilization of Cu2O NPs on graphene sheet. Synergistic bonding between Cu2O NPs and graphene sheet is responsible for the augmentation in the catalytic activity of Cu2O NPs.