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+ servings

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

A comforting and flavorful vegetarian pasta dish featuring creamy orzo, sweet roasted butternut squash, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Butternut Squash

  • 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Orzo

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach packed
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper or to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread into a single layer.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
  • While the squash is roasting, melt the butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Stir in the heavy cream, roasted butternut squash, and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    1 medium butternut squash
  • Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

This dish can be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using a plant-based cream alternative.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
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