Name: Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1½ cups orzo pasta; 3 cups vegetable broth; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped; Fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home—not only because of its rich flavors but also for how comforting and satisfying it is. The roasted butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or gathering loved ones around the table, this dish brings everyone together. It’s easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying each other’s company. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the veggies, making it both nourishing and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready in under an hour.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet flavor of the roasted squash.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe with whatever veggies you have on hand.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick meal during your busy week.
Comforting Flavor: The combination of creamy orzo and savory cheese creates a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that are probably already in your pantry or fridge. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that creamy goodness we love. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
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)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand!

Add More Veggies: Toss in some kale, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Change Up the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
Go Vegan: Substitute plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly option.

How to Make Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness while adding depth to our dish. Pop them in the oven for about 25–30 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because it releases those beautiful garlicky aromas that will flavor our entire dish.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Stir in the orzo pasta next and toast it lightly for around 2 minutes while stirring frequently. Toasting adds a nutty flavor to the pasta which enhances our creamy sauce later.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Pour in vegetable broth (or water), bring it to a simmer, and cook for about 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; this helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

Step 5: Mix In Creaminess

Once cooked, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. This makes everything luscious! Then add roughly chopped spinach into the pot; cook just until wilted—this keeps it vibrant and fresh.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Gently fold in your roasted butternut squash from earlier into this creamy mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving warm. The final touch? A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for brightness!

Now all that’s left is to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Creating the perfect creamy orzo is all about technique and a few thoughtful touches! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

Choose the right squash: Opt for a small butternut squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures a sweeter, more flavorful result, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Toast the orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo in butter before adding the liquid brings out its nutty flavor and adds depth to your meal.
Use fresh spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts beautifully and retains a vibrant green color. Avoid frozen spinach, as it can release excess moisture that may make the dish watery.
Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh or dried herbs like sage or nutmeg can bring an aromatic twist to your creamy orzo. These subtle flavors enhance the warmth of the dish.
Adjust for creaminess: If you prefer an even creamier texture, feel free to add more heavy cream (or plant-based cream) gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to help you impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
Toasted pumpkin seeds: Adding a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds on top provides a lovely crunch and complements the sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully.

Side Dishes

Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for scooping up creamy bites of orzo while adding a crispy texture that pairs well with the softness of the dish.
Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances well with the sweetness of the butternut squash, creating an exciting flavor contrast on your plate.
Simple green salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers refreshing acidity that helps cut through the richness of the creamy orzo.
Grilled asparagus: The earthy flavors of grilled asparagus complement this dish perfectly while adding another layer of nutrition and color to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to create a memorable dining experience with your Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is not only a delightful dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this recipe ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the orzo to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Let the orzo dish cool completely before freezing.
Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on low power.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to regain creaminess.
Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach.

Can I use other vegetables in Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add any seasonal vegetables you like, such as zucchini or kale. Just roast them similarly to the squash for wonderful flavors.

How can I make Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply replace butter with plant-based butter and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The heavy cream can be substituted with coconut milk for a lovely creamy texture.

How long does Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach as much as I do! This recipe brings warmth and comfort to any table, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. With its vibrant colors and luscious flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite. Remember, cooking is all about joy—so have fun with it! Enjoy every delicious bite!