Description
This creamy orzo recipe features tender roasted butternut squash and fresh sautéed spinach, combined with cream cheese and Parmesan for a rich, comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it balances hearty vegetables with indulgent creaminess in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Vegetables
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare for roasting. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Roast the butternut squash. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread the cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, until they turn golden brown and tender.
- Cook the orzo. While the squash roasts, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes.
- Sauté the garlic and spinach. In a separate pan over medium heat, warm some olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Combine ingredients and finish the dish. Drain any excess broth from the orzo if necessary. Stir in the cream cheese while the orzo is still hot, allowing it to melt and create a creamy sauce. Add the roasted butternut squash, sautéed spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing gently to combine everything evenly.
- Serve and garnish. Serve the creamy orzo warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo to maintain a firm, al dente texture.
- Roasting the butternut squash caramelizes its natural sugars, enhancing the dish’s sweetness.
- You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a different creamy texture.
- For a nuttier flavor, try adding toasted pine nuts as a garnish.
- Adjust salt and pepper at the end to suit your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
