If you’re craving a comforting, one-pan meal that’s both nourishing and full of flavor, this roasted butternut squash and spinach orzo is the perfect choice. It combines caramelized squash, tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and a hint of lemon for a beautifully balanced dish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is simple yet impressive.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Creamy and comforting without heavy cream
• Packed with roasted, caramelized flavor
• Quick and easy (perfect for busy days)
• Vegetarian-friendly (and easy to adapt)
🧾 Ingredients
• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp maple syrup (for caramelization)
• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
• ¼ cup grated parmesan (plus more for serving)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• Black pepper to taste
• 2½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Roast the butternut squash
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and maple syrup. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Step 2: Cook the orzo
In a large pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the orzo and broth
Stir in the dry orzo pasta, then pour in the broth. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid (about 8–10 minutes).
Step 4: Add spinach and cheese
Mix in the fresh spinach and let it wilt. Stir in the parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Step 5: Combine everything
Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
🍽️ Serving Tips
Serve warm with extra grated parmesan on top and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or can be enjoyed on its own.
🔥 Pro Tips
• Don’t skip the maple syrup—it enhances the squash’s natural sweetness
• Stir the orzo frequently to prevent sticking
• Add a splash of broth if the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly
• For extra richness, add a touch of cream or mascarpone
🔍 SEO Keywords
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💬 Final Note
This roasted butternut squash and spinach orzo is the kind of cozy dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of delicious seasonal flavor