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Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Cozy Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo for Quick Comfort Food

This Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo is a warm, creamy dish that combines seasonal flavors, perfect for quick comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Dish
  • 1 medium Butternut Squash Substitute with kabocha or acorn squash if desired.
  • 1 medium Sweet Onion Fresh shallots can also be used.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic yields the best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Sage Thyme or rosemary can work in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1 cup Cream Full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast as a vegan substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral cooking oil can be used.
For the Aromatics & Spices
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Allspice Ensure spices are fresh.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Ensure spices are fresh.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves Ensure spices are fresh.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust according to taste.
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Homemade or store-bought.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the squash roasts beautifully.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
  4. Bring vegetable broth to a boil in a large pot. Add orzo, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes until tender.
  5. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add sweet onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low and add sage, mozzarella, cream, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy.
  7. Fold cooked orzo and roasted squash into the cheese sauce, mixing well for a creamy combination.
  8. Plate the dish in bowls and garnish with remaining sage, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 14gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Using fresh ingredients and keeping an eye on roasting times are essential for the best flavors and textures.

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