Print

Creamy Orzo Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe

Creamy Orzo Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Print Recipe

Creamy Orzo Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender orzo pasta combined with naturally sweet, caramelized roasted butternut squash in a luscious, creamy sauce enriched with Parmesan and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe balances cozy flavors with simple ingredients and quick preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz orzo pasta

Vegetables

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 lbs), peeled and cubed
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh herbs (2 tbsp chopped sage or thyme)

Dairy & Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Oils & Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting and sautéing)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Peel and cube the butternut squash into even pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized at the edges.
  2. Cook the Orzo Pasta: While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set the orzo aside.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream or milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce slightly thickens.
  4. Combine Orzo and Squash: Add the roasted butternut squash and cooked orzo to the creamy sauce. Gently mix to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the consistency.
  5. Finish with Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in chopped fresh herbs such as sage or thyme. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix gently until warm and fragrant, then remove from heat.

Notes

  • Cut squash into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and enhance creaminess.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their vibrant aroma and flavor.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and richer taste than pre-grated cheese.
  • Do not overcook the orzo; it should be al dente to maintain texture in the creamy sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy orzo pasta, roasted butternut squash recipe, easy pasta dinner, autumn pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner, cozy meals

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/creamy-orzo-pasta-with-roasted-butternut-squash-recipe/