Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then you’re in the right place! Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach is my go-to recipe when I want something comforting yet sophisticated. The sweetness of the roasted squash pairs beautifully with the creamy orzo and fresh spinach, creating a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion.

The best part? It’s easy to make and uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This dish comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and sweet roasted flavors!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Seasonal goodness: The star ingredient, butternut squash, is packed with vitamins and adds a lovely color to your plate.
• Satisfying comfort food: With its creamy consistency and rich flavors, it truly warms the heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach, you’ll only need a few basic ingredients. These are wholesome staples that come together beautifully to create comfort food at its finest.

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on what you have available or your personal preferences. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
• Change the greens: Swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different texture.
• Spice it up: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat!
• Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan version.

How to Make Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme if you’re using it. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash while adding caramelization that enhances the flavor. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until tender, stirring halfway through.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Toast Orzo

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this step infuses your dish with lovely garlicky goodness. Then, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 2-3 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta which adds depth to our creamy dish.

Step 3: Cook Orzo

Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) into the skillet. Bring everything to a simmer before reducing the heat to medium-low. Cook while stirring occasionally for 10-15 minutes until the orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. The key here is to create that wonderfully saucy consistency that makes this dish so comforting!

Step 4: Combine & Finish

Once your orzo is cooked perfectly, stir in the roasted butternut squash, chopped spinach, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if you choose to add some spice! Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts—this will ensure all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

And there you have it! A bowl full of love with Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach ready to warm your soul. Enjoy every comforting bite!

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

Creating this delightful dish is a breeze with a few handy tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and spinach will enhance the flavor and texture of your orzo, making each bite more vibrant and delicious.

• Toast the Orzo: Toasting the orzo before adding the broth adds a nutty flavor that deepens the overall taste of the dish, creating a more complex flavor profile.

• Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference. Adding more cream will create an even richer sauce, perfect for those creamy pasta lovers!

• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like pecorino or nutritional yeast for a vegan option; each will bring its own unique character to the dish.

• Make it Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead of time! Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash more vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

How to Serve Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach

Presentation matters, and serving this creamy orzo can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the table.

Garnishes

• Chili flakes: A sprinkle of chili flakes adds a lovely heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy flavors.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: These not only add crunch but also enhance the autumnal vibe of the dish.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy orzo perfectly and makes for great dipping.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the orzo.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor matches well with butternut squash and offers additional texture.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and balances out the meal with its slight bitterness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this heartwarming dish. Enjoy every comforting bite of your Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach!

Make Ahead and Storage

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach is not only a delightful dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare this recipe in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or as part of your lunch rotation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the orzo to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Let the creamy orzo cool down to room temperature.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen orzo in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While this recipe features orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if you prefer.

How do I make Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply replace the butter with olive oil, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream.

Can I add protein to my Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach?

Yes! Feel free to add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or beans to enhance the protein content while complementing the flavors of this dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash & Spinach! It’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal ingredients and indulge in comfort food that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a meal prep for busy days ahead, this recipe offers something special every time. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!