Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

The beauty of this dish lies not just in the flavors, but in the way it comes together so effortlessly. As the roasted butternut squash caramelizes in the oven, it transforms into little golden nuggets of sweetness that contrast beautifully with the richness of the creamy orzo. The spinach adds a burst of vibrant green and a slight earthy undertone, which balances the dish’s comforting elements perfectly. You’ll notice how the orzo soaks up the creamy sauce, becoming luxuriously tender, while each bite delivers a satisfying pop of flavor from the roasted squash. It’s that perfect combination of creamy, savory, and just a touch of sweetness that makes every forkful feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving. Maybe you have some fresh thyme or a bit of Parmesan sitting in your kitchen? Go ahead and use them—it’s all about bringing your personal touch to this cozy dish. The best part is that the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, with the flavors having melded together beautifully. I always make a little extra just to have an easy and satisfying lunch ready to go the next day.

Key Ingredients in Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

This dish comes together beautifully thanks to a few simple yet flavorful ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the creamy orzo to the roasted sweetness of the butternut squash, each element plays a key role in creating the comforting, satisfying flavor profile you’ll absolutely love. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes this dish so irresistible:

• Orzo pasta

A tiny pasta shape that soaks up the creamy sauce, giving each bite a tender, velvety texture. Its small size means it cooks quickly and blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.

• Butternut squash

Sweet, nutty, and perfectly caramelized when roasted, the butternut squash adds an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy orzo and savory spinach. Its golden hue also adds a pop of color to the dish.

• Olive oil

Used to roast the butternut squash, olive oil helps create a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the squash soft and tender on the inside. It also adds a light, fruity flavor to the dish.

• Salt

Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, balancing out the sweetness of the squash and bringing out the richness of the cream and butter. A little goes a long way!

• Black pepper

A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish, providing a nice contrast to the creamy elements without overwhelming the other flavors.

• Fresh spinach

Vibrant and earthy, spinach brings a pop of color and a mild, slightly bitter taste that beautifully offsets the sweetness of the roasted squash. It also adds a boost of nutrients to the dish.

• Heavy cream

The key ingredient that makes this dish irresistibly creamy and rich. It gives the orzo its luxurious texture and helps to bind everything together in a smooth, velvety sauce.

• Grated Parmesan cheese

A finishing touch of savory, umami-packed Parmesan gives the dish a little extra depth and saltiness. It also melts beautifully into the creamy sauce, adding a delightful richness.

• Garlic powder

This subtle seasoning adds a gentle, aromatic garlic flavor without being overpowering. It enhances the overall savory notes of the dish, tying everything together perfectly.

• Dried thyme

A warm, earthy herb that complements the butternut squash and spinach. Thyme’s slightly lemony and peppery notes add complexity to the dish and make it feel even more comforting.

• Dried rosemary

Fragrant and slightly piney, rosemary pairs wonderfully with the roasted squash. It brings a rustic touch to the dish, elevating its overall depth of flavor.

• Butter

The final ingredient that adds a silky richness to the sauce. Butter rounds out the creamy texture and helps the sauce coat the orzo beautifully, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.

How to Make Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

1. Top with a Protein: For a heartier meal, add a grilled chicken breast or roasted salmon on top of your orzo. The mild, savory flavors of the chicken or fish complement the richness of the creamy orzo and roasted squash perfectly. Plus, it makes the dish feel even more like a complete meal.

2. Add a Crunchy Garnish: A handful of toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts can add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts with the creamy texture of the orzo. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top will also brighten the dish and give it a fresh finish.

3. Pair with a Light Salad: Since the orzo is rich and indulgent, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will balance out the creamy flavors, and the freshness of the salad will add a nice contrast. It’s the perfect way to round out the meal!

How to Store Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and I’m sure you will!), storing this creamy orzo properly is key to keeping it just as delicious for the next day. To store it, simply transfer any remaining orzo to an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up, as this will help prevent condensation inside the container, which could make the dish soggy. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—just long enough to savor it again, but not so long that it loses its fresh flavors.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the orzo in a skillet over medium heat. If it’s a little thickened up in the fridge, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up and bring back that creamy texture. You could also microwave it in a bowl, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, but I find the stovetop method gives it the best texture.

Now, if you somehow have enough to freeze (which is a serious win!), you can store the orzo in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Just make sure it’s cooled before popping it in the freezer. It’ll last for up to 2-3 months, but keep in mind the texture might change a little once thawed and reheated. You might need to add a bit more cream or broth to help it regain its creamy consistency. Either way, it’s a great option for a quick and comforting meal later on!

Conclusion

And there you have it—creamy orzo with roasted butternut squash and spinach, a dish that’s as cozy as a blanket on a chilly day and as satisfying as that first bite of comfort food after a long day. The rich, creamy texture of the orzo, the sweetness of the roasted squash, and the vibrant green spinach come together in perfect harmony, making this dish one you’ll come back to time and time again. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a homemade delight, this recipe has everything you need to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen.

I hope you enjoyed following along as much as I loved sharing this recipe with you! If you try it out, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out. Maybe you added a little twist with your own choice of seasonings or a special garnish. If you’ve got any questions, need a hand with the recipe, or just want to share how it went, drop me a comment! I’m always here to chat about all things food, and I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Author: Daniel Carter Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr

Calories: 400

Description

Creamy orzo meets sweet roasted butternut squash and vibrant spinach in this comforting dish. The rich, velvety sauce clings to each tender grain of orzo, while the squash adds a burst of sweetness, perfectly balanced by the earthy spinach. Simply irresistible!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups cubed butternut squash

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 3 cups fresh spinach

• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream

• ¹⁄₄ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
5. While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
6. Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
7. Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and set aside.
8. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
9. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
11. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
12. Stir the mixture until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
13. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy sauce.
14. Once the butternut squash is roasted, add it to the skillet with the orzo mixture and gently stir to combine.
15. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
16. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy orzo with roasted butternut squash and spinach.

Note

• For a richer flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to enhance its natural sweetness.
• To add some crunch, top the dish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving.
• For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or milk alternative.
• Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• If you don't have fresh spinach, frozen spinach works well but be sure to drain excess moisture.

Keywords: creamy orzo recipe, roasted butternut squash pasta, spinach orzo dish, creamy pasta with squash, butternut squash spinach recipe