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Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Bliss

A quick and comforting Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Squash
  • 1 medium Butternut Squash Feel free to swap with zucchini or bell peppers for a twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil is a great alternative.
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Black Pepper
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can be exchanged with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice.
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth Water can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan choice.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Consider omitting or using nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Cream cheese can add a richer flavor.
For the Greens
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Can be interchanged with other leafy greens like kale.
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Optional.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder experience.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step by Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash into evenly sized cubes and place them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, seasoning generously with salt and black pepper. Spread the seasoned squash onto a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and tender.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the orzo pasta, toasting it lightly for approximately 2 minutes before adding the vegetable broth to the pan.
  3. Bring the broth to a low simmer, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Allow the orzo to cook for about 10-12 minutes until it is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, along with the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and allow it to wilt for about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash into the creamy orzo mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
  6. Transfer the mixture to serving bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 14gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfectly roasted squash pieces and al dente orzo can enhance the dish. Store leftovers wisely to maintain texture.

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