Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both elegant and incredibly easy to prepare, and this Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo is exactly that. Imagine tender orzo pasta swimming in a velvety, rich sauce infused with the sweet, earthy notes of roasted butternut squash and the subtle, aromatic whisper of fresh sage. It’s a comforting embrace on a plate, perfect for those evenings when you crave something deeply satisfying without the fuss.

This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, especially during the cooler months when butternut squash is at its peak. It’s wonderful for a weeknight dinner that feels a little bit fancy, or for a comforting lunch that’s a step above the usual. Plus, it stores beautifully, making leftovers a delicious treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo is a winner for so many reasons. It genuinely feels like a gourmet meal, yet it’s so simple to whip up. I love that it’s a weeknight warrior, ready in under an hour, which is a lifesaver. The unique flavor fusion of sweet squash, aromatic sage, and savory Parmesan is just delightful. It’s truly a comforting and satisfying dish!

Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo Ingredients

The magic of this Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo truly lies in its simple yet harmonious blend of ingredients, creating a dish that’s both comforting and deeply flavorful. Each component plays a vital role in building that signature creamy texture and warm, inviting taste. You’ll find all the exact amounts in the recipe card at the end, but here’s a peek at what makes this dish so special:

• Butternut Squash: This is our star ingredient. It provides a natural sweetness and the essential base for our velvety smooth sauce.
• Orzo Pasta: These tiny, rice-shaped pasta cook up quickly. They are perfect for soaking up all that delicious creamy sauce.
• Yellow Onion & Garlic: These are the aromatic builders. They create a savory depth that anchors the dish.
• Fresh Sage: It adds a unique earthy and slightly peppery flavor. This herb perfectly complements the sweetness of the squash.
• Butter (or Ghee/Coconut Oil): We use this for sautéing, but it also adds a welcome richness to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: This brings a salty, nutty, umami kick. It melts beautifully into the sauce, making it extra creamy.
• Water or Broth: This is our liquid foundation. It cooks the orzo and helps achieve that perfect sauce consistency.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Simple, yet crucial. They enhance all the other wonderful flavors in the dish.

Substitutions and Tips:

Want to deepen the flavor? Swap water for chicken or vegetable bone broth. If fresh sage is tough to find, dried sage works too. Just use about 1 teaspoon, but start with less. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so taste as you go! For a dairy-free option, coconut cream is a lovely substitute for heavy cream. And a dairy-free Parmesan alternative works well. A little secret for extra flavor? Roasting the squash with avocado oil, maple syrup, and garlic powder before you puree it adds a hint of caramelized sweetness that’s simply divine.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Begin by preparing your butternut squash. In a large, wide skillet, combine the cubed squash. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Cover the squash with water. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook until the squash is tender. This typically takes 4-5 minutes. Drain the squash carefully. Alternatively, you can roast the squash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil. Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Include 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes. The squash should be soft and golden brown.

Step 2: Puree the Squash

Reserve about 1 cup of the cooked butternut squash. Set this aside for later. Transfer the remaining cooked squash to a blender. Add 3 tablespoons of water to the blender. Process the squash until it is completely smooth. You’re making a beautiful puree. Set this smooth squash puree aside for now; it’s the heart of our creamy sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Use the same large skillet if you boiled the squash. If you roasted it, grab a separate skillet. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion. Season the onion with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook the onion, stirring often. The onion should become translucent. This usually takes 7-9 minutes. Now, add the finely chopped garlic. Toss in the fresh sage too. Cook and stir constantly until fragrant. This quick step is about 1 minute more. Watch the garlic carefully; you don’t want it to burn.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet. It goes in with the tender, sautéed aromatics. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Cook the orzo pasta. Stir it frequently. It will begin to turn lightly toasted. Soon, it develops a lovely golden brown hue. This toasting step is key. It really boosts the nutty flavor of the orzo. It also adds lovely depth to the final dish.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Add the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Pour in 2 2/3 cups of water. Or use your chosen broth for more flavor. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Use medium-high heat for this. Once it simmers, reduce the heat. Turn it down to medium-low. Cover the skillet. Let it cook undisturbed. The orzo should become tender. Most of the liquid should absorb. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Finish the Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Gently stir the pureed butternut squash into the cooked orzo. Mix until the sauce is smooth. It should be creamy and evenly combined. Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in the reserved 1 cup of cubed squash. Continue to cook while stirring. Do this gently. Cook until the Parmesan is fully melted. The reserved squash should be heated through. This takes about 3 minutes. Taste the mixture. Adjust seasoning with extra salt if needed. For more richness, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream. Want some greens? Wilt in 1-2 cups of fresh spinach until tender.

Step 7: Serve

Divide the warm Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo among bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese. Add a crack of fresh black pepper. Sprinkle fresh sage leaves on top if you like. Serve this delightful pasta immediately. Enjoy this comforting meal with your favorite people.

How to Store Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo stores beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop. Use low heat for this. Add a splash of water or milk if it seems too thick. Freezing is an option. However, the orzo’s texture may change a bit. Ensure the dish cools completely before storing.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the squash. It should be tender. This makes pureeing easy.
• Toast the orzo first. This enhances its nutty flavor. Add liquid after toasting.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning. A little extra salt makes a big difference.
• If the sauce is too thick, thin it out. Use a splash of water, milk, or broth.
• Use a powerful blender. This ensures a smoother, creamier puree.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To create this delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo, you won’t need a ton of fancy gadgets. Most of these tools are likely already in your kitchen, making this a convenient meal to whip up. Here’s a basic rundown:

• A good quality large, wide skillet (10-12 inch) is essential.
• You’ll need a blender or an immersion blender for that silky smooth squash puree.
• Standard measuring cups and spoons are a must.
• A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are needed.
• A baking sheet is helpful if you prefer roasting your squash.
• A reliable spatula or wooden spoon for stirring everything together.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo warm. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color.
• A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Pairing this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio works well. A light-bodied red is also a good choice.
• For a truly hearty meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo ahead of time?

You can absolutely prep components of this Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo ahead. Cook and puree the squash, sauté the aromatics, and cook the orzo separately. Combine and finish the dish just before serving. This ensures the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

No fresh sage? No problem! Dried sage is a good substitute. Start with about 1 teaspoon. Taste as you go, though, since dried herbs are more concentrated. Crumble it between your fingers before adding for the best flavor release.

Can I add vegetables to this Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo?

Of course! Wilted spinach is a fantastic addition, just as the recipe suggests. You could also add sautéed mushrooms. Roasted Brussels sprouts or peas work well too. Toss them in near the end for extra flavor and nutrients.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Making this Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo vegan is simple. Use ghee or coconut oil instead of butter. Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. Choose coconut cream over heavy cream. Make sure any broth you use is vegetable-based.

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