Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo with Spinach

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Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo with Spinach

Ingredients

For roasted squash

  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

For orzo

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or cooking cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For garnish

  • Fresh thyme or parsley
  • Extra parmesan
  • Chili flakes

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Roast the butternut squash

  • Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.
  • Add butternut squash cubes to a baking tray.
  • Drizzle with olive oil.
  • Add salt, black pepper, chili flakes, and oregano.
  • Mix well so every piece is coated.
  • Roast for 20–25 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

2. Cook the garlic base

  • Heat butter in a pan on medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic.
  • Cook for 30–40 seconds until fragrant.
  • Do not burn the garlic.

3. Add the orzo

  • Add orzo pasta to the pan.
  • Stir for 1 minute so it gets lightly coated with butter and garlic.
  • This gives the orzo a better flavor.

4. Cook the orzo

  • Pour in the broth.
  • Stir well.
  • Let it simmer on medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes.
  • Stir often so the orzo does not stick to the bottom.
  • Cook until the orzo is soft and creamy.

5. Make it creamy

  • Add heavy cream.
  • Add parmesan cheese.
  • Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  • Add a little more broth if the orzo becomes too thick.

6. Add spinach

  • Add fresh spinach.
  • Stir for 1–2 minutes until the spinach becomes soft.
  • Taste and adjust salt and black pepper.

7. Add roasted squash

  • Gently add the roasted butternut squash on top.
  • Mix lightly so the cubes stay whole.
  • Sprinkle thyme, chili flakes, and extra parmesan.

Serving Idea

Serve warm as:

  • A creamy vegetarian dinner
  • A side dish with grilled chicken
  • A cozy lunch bowl
  • A holiday-style pasta dish

Tips

  • Use fresh butternut squash for the best taste.
  • Do not overcook the orzo because it can become too soft.
  • Stir often while cooking to make it creamy.
  • Add broth slowly if you want a thinner texture.
  • Parmesan adds salt, so taste before adding extra salt.

Q/A

Q: Can I use rice instead of orzo?
A: Yes, but cooking time will be longer. Orzo gives the best creamy pasta texture.

Q: Can I make it without cream?
A: Yes, use milk or extra broth, but the dish will be less creamy.

Q: Can I add chicken?
A: Yes, cooked shredded chicken or grilled chicken works very well.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes, keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Butternut squash gives fiber, vitamin A, and natural sweetness.
  • Spinach adds iron, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Orzo gives energy and makes the dish filling.
  • Parmesan adds protein and rich flavor.
  • Olive oil adds healthy fats.

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