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Creamy Orzo with Veggies

Featured in Heartwarming Main Course Recipes.

This creamy orzo recipe is packed with roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, and a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce. Roasting the butternut squash caramelizes its natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish. The orzo is cooked to perfection and paired with freshly sautéed spinach for a vibrant, colorful plate. With a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan to tie it all together, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy main course or as a side for family dinners or special occasions.
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Rose
Updated on Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:28:14 GMT
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Pin it
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach | lovelylifewithrose.com

This creamy orzo with roasted butternut squash and spinach is a perfect fusion of comfort and elegance. The tender orzo pasta combines with caramelized butternut squash cubes and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a silky Parmesan cream sauce that makes every bite memorable.

I've made this dish countless times, and it never fails to impress. My favorite memory is serving it at a fall dinner party where even the pickiest eaters went back for seconds.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Butternut Squash: Choose one with a firm, beige skin without soft spots. The smaller ones tend to be sweeter and less fibrous
  • Orzo Pasta: Look for quality durum wheat orzo that holds its shape when cooked
  • Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach works best as it's tender and quick to wilt
  • Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor and melting properties
  • Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream creates the silkiest sauce, but half-and-half works in a pinch

Detailed Cooking Steps

Step 1: Roast the Squash (400°F, 20-25 minutes)
- Toss with olive oil and seasonings
- Spread evenly on baking sheet
- Roast until edges caramelize for maximum flavor
Step 2: Prepare the Orzo Base
- Toast orzo in butter to develop nutty notes
- Gradually add broth, stirring occasionally
- Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat before adding cream
- Stir in Parmesan until completely melted
- Fold in spinach gently

I particularly love the butternut squash in this dish. My daughter, who typically avoids vegetables, always asks for extra squash pieces because roasting brings out their natural sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

The dish keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture. The flavors often develop further the next day, making excellent leftovers for lunch.

After years of making this recipe, I've found it's one of those reliable dishes that consistently delivers satisfaction. The combination of creamy pasta with roasted vegetables creates a restaurant-quality meal that's actually simple to prepare at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta like couscous or ditalini can work as a substitute for orzo.
→ What can I use instead of butternut squash?
You can swap it with sweet potatoes, roasted pumpkin, or even carrots for similar flavor.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan alternatives to make this dish vegan-friendly.
→ What protein can I add to this dish?
Cooked chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp are great options to add protein.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to serve.

Creamy Orzo with Squash

Orzo with butternut squash, spinach, and creamy Parmesan.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Roasted Butternut Squash

01 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into roughly ½-inch cubes
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 ½ teaspoon salt
04 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
05 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added depth)

→ Orzo and Sauce

07 1 cup orzo pasta
08 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
09 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
10 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if preferred)
11 ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
12 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
14 ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
15 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
16 ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
17 ½ teaspoon lemon zest (for a touch of brightness)

→ Garnish

18 Extra Parmesan cheese
19 Fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash turns tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 02

Warm butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the orzo to lightly toast the grains for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 03

Lower the heat and gently mix in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the spinach, stirring until it wilts completely.

Step 04

Carefully fold in the roasted butternut squash and sprinkle the lemon zest for added freshness. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, if required. Serve warm and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.

Notes

  1. This dish is a fusion of Mediterranean and Italian-inspired flavors, offering both warmth and comfort.
  2. You can transform it into a heartier meal by incorporating cooked chicken or chickpeas for additional protein.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (Parmesan and heavy cream)
  • Contains gluten (orzo pasta)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 92
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~