Description
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a heartwarming dish that perfectly blends tender orzo pasta with sweet, caramelized butternut squash and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting meal not only satisfies your palate but also fills your home with an inviting aroma, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With easy preparation and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- In a large pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a separate pan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Drain excess broth from the cooked orzo if necessary. Stir in cream cheese until melted; then add roasted squash, sautéed spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg