Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food that offers a warm, hearty meal for any occasion. This delightful dish features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, complemented by caramelized roasted butternut squash and fresh, vibrant spinach. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this vegetarian recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit various tastes. The blend of flavors and textures makes each bite a comforting experience that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for one minute.
- Stir in orzo and toast for two minutes. Pour in vegetable broth, simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is al dente.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until creamy. Add chopped spinach until wilted.
- Fold in roasted squash; adjust seasoning before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg