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Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Comforting Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo for Cozy Nights

A creamy and nutritious Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo that’s quick to prepare and customizable for family dinners or cozy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Chicken broth can be used for a non-vegetarian option.
For the Roasted Squash
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced Can substitute with pumpkin or sweet potatoes.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Avocado oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Feel free to tweak according to your liking.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Can use fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different spin.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast is a vegan substitute.
  • ½ cup heavy cream Plant-based cream can be a vegan alternative.
For Garnish
  • Fresh parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Medium Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather your ingredients and prep the baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Spread in a baking dish.
  3. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 20-25 minutes until tender and starting to brown.
  4. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add orzo, reduce heat, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  5. Fold the roasted squash into the saucepan with the orzo. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or nutmeg if desired.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and consider adding greens for extra nutrition.

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