Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. This delightful dish combines tender orzo, sweet roasted butternut squash, and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a side or main course, this recipe promises an unforgettable culinary experience that warms the heart and nourishes the soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet.
- Roast squash for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- In a medium saucepan, boil vegetable broth over medium heat. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain excess broth from orzo, then return to the saucepan over low heat. Add roasted squash, minced garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan; stir until creamy.
- Fold in fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg