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

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both your heart and your stomach, you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is one of my favorite recipes to whip up when the weather turns chilly. There’s something so comforting about the rich flavors of roasted butternut squash mingling with creamy orzo pasta and vibrant spinach. It’s a dish that feels special enough for family gatherings yet easy enough for busy weeknights.

This recipe is all about embracing simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just treating yourself, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and sweet squash, making it perfect for family dinners.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish stores well, so you can prepare it in advance for a busy week.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies, it’s a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or veggies to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are all easy-to-find items that transform into a delightful meal.

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 recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what’s available in your pantry.

Swap the greens: If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard work beautifully too!
Add more veggies: Consider tossing in some roasted bell peppers or peas for added color and nutrition.
Make it spicy: For those who like a kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes or swap out the black pepper for cayenne.
Go vegan: Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of cheese to make this dish completely vegan-friendly!

How to Make Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Step 1: Roast the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading them out on a baking sheet allows them to roast evenly. Roast for about 25–30 minutes until they are tender and caramelized. This step is key as it brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.

Step 2: Prepare the Orzo

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then stir in the orzo pasta and toast lightly for around 2 minutes; this enhances its nutty flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; this ensures every bit of pasta cooks evenly.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. The cream will give it that luscious texture we love! Add in chopped spinach next; cook until just wilted – this keeps its bright color and nutrients intact.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Finally, gently fold in your roasted butternut squash. Taste your dish and adjust seasoning if needed before serving warm. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor! Enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful meal with family or friends!

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

Making this creamy orzo dish can be a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate it even further!

Choose the right squash: Using a small butternut squash ensures that the sweetness and texture are just right. A fresher squash will also enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Don’t skip toasting the orzo: Toasting the orzo briefly before adding liquid adds a nutty flavor that really enhances the dish’s depth. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference!
Add seasonings gradually: Start with salt and pepper and taste as you go. This helps you control the seasoning to achieve a balanced flavor profile. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Opt for fresh spinach: While frozen spinach can work in a pinch, fresh baby spinach provides a vibrant color and better texture. Plus, it wilts down beautifully while still keeping some of its bite.
Experiment with cheese alternatives: If you’re looking to make this dish vegan-friendly, try using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. It’ll still give you that cheesy flavor without any dairy.

How to Serve Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Presenting your creamy orzo beautifully not only makes for an appealing dish but also enhances the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness, making your dish pop visually and taste-wise.
Toasted pine nuts: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy texture of the orzo perfectly.
Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce and adds a satisfying crunch next to your soft orzo.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the squash, creating a well-rounded meal.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich orzo.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also brings in nutrients, making your meal healthier while balancing out textures.

Whether it’s for family dinner or meal prep for the week, Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is sure to become a favorite! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it, ensuring you have a comforting dish ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to preserve its texture.

Freezing

To freeze, place portions of the orzo in freezer-safe containers or bags.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Consider labeling containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep it creamy.
Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply substitute plant-based butter for regular butter and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What can I serve with Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach?

This creamy orzo dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For added protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or chickpeas.

How can I enhance the flavor of Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach?

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding spices like nutmeg or sage. Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme can also elevate the dish further.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about trying this Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach recipe as I am! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients! Happy cooking!