Cozy Orzo Recipe: Butternut Squash & Spinach Magic Bowl

Roasting butternut squash adds a deep, caramelized flavor to this hearty orzo dish that sings with rustic comfort.

Vibrant green spinach weaves through golden grains, creating a stunning palette of autumn colors.

Each forkful promises a delightful blend of textures and earthy warmth.

Tender orzo absorbs the rich, nutty essence of roasted squash, making this recipe a perfect weeknight meal.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together in a simple yet elegant preparation.

Seasonal vegetables transform this pasta into a nourishing celebration of fall’s bounty.

Serve this inviting dish and watch as friends savor every delicious bite.

Flavor Fixes For Creamy Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach

• Perfect Roasting Technique: Ensure butternut squash pieces are similar in size for even caramelization, and don't overcrowd the baking sheet to achieve golden, crispy edges.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare roasted squash and orzo base separately up to two days in advance, then quickly reheat and combine for a speedy weeknight meal.
• Protein Power-Up: Add grilled chicken, crispy chickpeas, or crumbled goat cheese to transform this side dish into a complete protein-packed meal.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and opt for olive oil to create a delicious vegan version that maintains creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Seasonal Swap: Replace butternut squash with roasted sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or delicata squash during different seasons for varied taste and nutrition profiles.

How To Serve Creamy Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach

• Roasted Veggie Delight: Top this creamy orzo with extra roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
• Herb Garden Fresh: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil, parsley, or chives just before serving to enhance the dish's aromatic profile and brighten flavors.
• Protein Power Boost: Add grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or crispy tofu to transform this side dish into a complete and satisfying main course that's packed with protein.
• Texture Crunch Enhancement: Scatter toasted pine nuts or pepitas over the top to introduce a delightful crispy element that contrasts with the creamy orzo texture.

How To Save Creamy Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach

• Meal Prep Magic: Chop butternut squash and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to 3 days before cooking, saving precious time during busy weeknights.
• Refrigeration Wisdom: Store leftovers in sealed containers for 3-4 days, keeping the orzo's creamy texture intact by gently reheating with a splash of broth or cream.
• Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Portion the dish into individual containers and freeze for up to 2 months, perfect for quick lunch or dinner solutions when time is tight.
• Make-Ahead Brilliance: Prepare roasted butternut squash and cook orzo separately, storing components separately in the refrigerator, then combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 5

All You Need For Creamy Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach

• Butternut Squash: Sweet autumn vegetable that caramelizes beautifully and adds rich color and texture.
• Olive Oil: Helps squash roast evenly and develop golden crispy edges.
• Salt: Enhances natural sweetness of squash.
• Black Pepper: Provides gentle warmth and depth.
• Garlic Powder: Adds aromatic background flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Creates smoky undertone and vibrant reddish hue.

• Orzo: Tiny pasta that creates smooth, comforting texture.
• Vegetable Broth: Infuses pasta with savory depth and helps cooking.
• Butter: Adds richness and silky mouthfeel.
• Garlic: Brings sharp, pungent flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, velvety consistency.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers nutty, salty undertones.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces subtle spicy kick.

• Spinach: Brings fresh, vibrant green color and nutrient boost.
• Lemon Zest: Provides bright, citrusy accent that cuts through richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional garnish for additional aromatic layer.

Tools For Creamy Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach

• Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting butternut squash evenly and creating caramelized edges.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for cooking orzo and creating the creamy sauce.
• Cutting Board: Needed for dicing squash and chopping spinach and herbs.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp knife for precise vegetable preparation.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps stir orzo and mix ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.
• Cheese Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.

Steps To Make Creamy Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach

• Prep the Squash Explosion

Dice butternut squash into tempting cubes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with zesty seasonings. Spread on a baking sheet and let the oven transform these golden nuggets into caramelized delights.

• Create Orzo Magic

Warm a skillet and dance garlic around until fragrant. Add orzo and toast until it whispers nutty promises. Pour vegetable broth and let it simmer into creamy perfection, stirring occasionally.

• Build Luscious Layers

Lower the heat and introduce heavy cream, Parmesan, and a hint of spice. Toss in spinach and watch it melt into silky submission. The magic is happening right before your eyes.

• Marry the Flavors

Gently fold roasted squash into the creamy orzo. Sprinkle lemon zest for a bright kiss. Finish with a shower of Parmesan and fresh herbs. Your culinary masterpiece is ready to dazzle taste buds.

Rustic Orzo With Roasted Butternut Squash And Spinach Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Creamy orzo with roasted butternut squash and spinach delivers comfort on a plate, blending hearty textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Mediterranean ingredients combine beautifully, offering a simple yet elegant dish you’ll savor from first bite to last.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (480 ml) butternut squash, peeled and diced (½-inch cubes)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Extra parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prep Roasting: Dice butternut squash into uniform cubes, tossing with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Roast Squash: Bake in a preheated oven at 400F (200C) for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway to achieve golden caramelized edges. Remove and set aside.
3. Orzo Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add orzo and toast until lightly golden.
4. Liquid Integration: Gradually pour vegetable broth, stirring consistently to prevent sticking. Simmer until orzo becomes tender and liquid reduces, creating a creamy consistency.
5. Sauce Development: Reduce heat and introduce heavy cream, stirring continuously. Blend in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a silky sauce. Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes.
6. Final Assembly: Fold chopped spinach into the creamy mixture, allowing leaves to wilt. Gently incorporate roasted butternut squash, preserving its caramelized texture. Brighten with lemon zest.
7. Serving: Plate the dish, garnishing with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs. Serve immediately to maintain optimal temperature and texture.

Notes

• Roast Squash Evenly: Cut cubes precisely the same size to guarantee uniform caramelization and prevent uneven cooking.
• Prevent Sticky Orzo: Toast pasta before adding liquid and stir frequently to stop clumping and create a rich, nutty base flavor.
• Balance Creaminess Carefully: Add cream and cheese gradually, stirring constantly to maintain smooth consistency without scorching or separating sauce.
• Maximize Flavor Layers: Allow spinach to wilt naturally in hot orzo and fold roasted squash gently to preserve its caramelized texture and prevent breaking delicate pieces.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg