Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Recipe
This Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, and creamy orzo pasta cooked in a savory broth enriched with garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal that highlights seasonal autumn ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Butternut Squash
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread the squash evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo to the saucepan and stir to coat with the butter mixture. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to toast the pasta slightly.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is creamy and the broth is mostly absorbed.
- Incorporate Spinach: Reduce the heat to low and fold in the fresh spinach. Stir until wilted and combined with the orzo.
- Add Squash and Cream: Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir carefully until everything is creamy and well combined.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the orzo mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a vegan alternative, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy option, and replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
- Using pre-cubed or frozen butternut squash can save preparation time.
- You can swap orzo with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or use farro for a heartier texture.
- Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings or to have leftovers.
Keywords: creamy orzo, roasted butternut squash, spinach recipe, pasta dishes, comfort food, easy dinner
