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Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

A cozy, creamy one-skillet meal featuring tender orzo, caramelized roasted butternut squash, and fresh baby spinach. Perfect for chilly nights when you need a warm hug on a plate! Easy, comforting, and packed with fall flavor!

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

  • 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 2 cups baby spinach

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

  • Fresh thyme or sage for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread onto a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender, flipping halfway through.

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in a drizzle of olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Stir in the orzo and toast for 1 minute. Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 10 minutes).

  • Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg. Add the spinach and roasted butternut squash. Stir until the spinach wilts and the dish is creamy and luscious.

 

  • Season to taste, garnish with fresh herbs if using, and serve warm!

Notes

  • Swap heavy cream for coconut cream to make it dairy-free!

  • Add cooked chicken or crispy pancetta for extra protein.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days — just add a splash of broth when reheating.

 

  • Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor!

  • Author: cookspotlight
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop, Oven Roasted
  • Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 generous cup
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 510mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: creamy orzo, butternut squash orzo, one-pot orzo, fall comfort food, vegetarian orzo, easy creamy pasta, spinach orzo