Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Recipe
This Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in vegetable broth, combined with sweet roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect as a satisfying vegetarian main or a flavorful side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Butternut Squash
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Orzo and Sauce
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the pieces are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly by stirring for about 2 minutes to enhance the nutty flavor.
- Cook Orzo in Broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the saucepan with the orzo. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese, Cream, and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until well combined and the sauce is creamy. Add the chopped baby spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Optionally, stir in dried thyme and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Combine with Roasted Squash: Gently fold the roasted butternut squash into the creamy orzo mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy orzo onto plates or into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter or vegan-friendly version.
- Roasting the squash enhances its sweetness and adds depth of flavor, but you can steam it if short on time.
- For extra protein, consider adding sautéed chickpeas or grilled chicken on top.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or cream.
Keywords: Creamy Orzo, Roasted Butternut Squash, Spinach Orzo, Vegetarian Pasta, Fall Recipes, Comfort Food
