Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach: A Creamy Fall Pasta You’ll Crave

Comfort in a Bowl

There’s something magical about fall cooking—the kitchen smells like roasted vegetables, cheese melts just right, and everything tastes like a warm hug. That’s exactly what you get with Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach. It’s cozy, colorful, creamy, and perfect whether you’re serving it on a lazy Sunday or for a festive weeknight dinner.

It’s a creamy orzo pasta dish that doubles as a main or a stunning side. Think: roasted butternut squash recipe turned into the heart of an autumn pasta. Add some wilted spinach and Parmesan and you’re golden.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Vegetable Pasta

• Deliciously creamy without being too heavy
  
• Easy to prepare with simple, real ingredients
  
• Nutrient-rich from squash and spinach
  
• Versatile — works as a main or side dish
  
• Comforting flavor that screams fall comfort food
  
• One-pot pasta meal convenience
  

Tools & Prep: What You Need for Perfect Pasta with Vegetables

Essential Tools

• Large saucepan or deep skillet – for orzo and sauce
  
• Baking sheet – for roasting squash evenly
  
• Wooden spoon or spatula – gentle stirring = no broken pasta
  
• Sharp knife + cutting board – for clean, uniform veggie prep
  

Why They Matter

• Big pans = even cooking and no sticking
  
• Roasting pan = caramelized, herb-roasted squash
  
• Wooden spoons protect your pan and your orzo
  
• Good knife work ensures even cooking and flavor
  

Ingredients: Fall Favorites Meet Creamy Pasta

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups dry orzo pasta
  
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil
  
• Salt and pepper to taste
  
• 1 medium shallot or onion, finely chopped
  
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  
• 3–4 cups warm vegetable broth
  
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  
• Fresh herbs like sage or thyme (optional)
  

Garnish Ideas

• Toasted pecans or walnuts
  
• Extra Parmesan
  
• Chopped parsley or basil
  
• Red pepper flakes or lemon zest
  

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Spinach Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs/nutmeg. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer—don’t crowd them! Roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and tender.

Step 2: Toast and Cook the Orzo

In a deep skillet, heat olive oil. Add shallot and garlic; sauté until soft. Add dry orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes until golden and nutty.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth for One-Pot Pasta Meals

Add warm broth to the pan (start with 3 cups). Simmer and stir until orzo is al dente. Add more broth as needed. This is your creamy pasta with vegetables base—don’t rush it.

Step 4: Make It a Creamy Orzo Pasta

Add cream (if using) and Parmesan. Stir gently. Add spinach and let it wilt naturally from the heat. Taste and season with salt, pepper, or nutmeg.

Step 5: Fold in the Roasted Squash

Gently stir in the roasted butternut squash. This becomes a spinach and squash casserole meets pasta moment. Let flavors blend.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Garnish

Spoon into bowls. Top with herbs, nuts, cheese—your call. Serve immediately for max creaminess.

Serving Suggestions for Butternut Squash and Spinach Pasta

Main Course Ideas

• Serve with crusty garlic bread
  
• Pair with arugula or mesclun salad
  

Side Dish Pairings

• Roasted Brussels sprouts
  
• Grilled chicken or tofu
  

Festive Additions

• Toasted nuts
  
• Drizzle of herb oil or balsamic glaze
  
• Serve in squash halves for drama
  

Tips for Perfection: Get That Parmesan Orzo Just Right

• Use fresh ingredients — you’ll taste the difference
  
• Toast your orzo for flavor and better texture
  
• Control creaminess — add broth as needed
  
• Spice it up — try sage, thyme, paprika
  
• Don’t overcook — squash should be tender, not mushy
  
• Taste as you go — build flavor in layers
  

Best Side Dishes for a Vegetarian Pasta Dinner

• Garlic bread
  
• Caprese salad
  
• Grilled asparagus
  
• Stuffed bell peppers
  
• Quinoa salad with herbs
  
• Roasted carrots or beets
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Savory Butternut Squash Recipes

• Overcrowding squash = steaming, not roasting
  
• Using cold broth = broken sauce
  
• Skipping fresh Parmesan = no depth
  
• Overcooking spinach = slimy mess
  
• Under-seasoning = flat flavors
  

Storage & Reheating for Butternut Squash Side Dish Leftovers

Refrigerate

• Store in airtight container 3–4 days
  

Freeze

• Up to 2–3 months (texture may soften)
  

Reheat

• Microwave: Add a splash of broth, heat in intervals
  
• Stovetop: Reheat gently with extra broth
  
• Oven: 350°F covered for 15–20 min
  

FAQ: Your Creamy Orzo Questions Answered

Recommended Recipes: More Pasta & Vegetable Favorites

Looking for more ways to enjoy pasta with veggies? Check out these delicious ideas:

• creamy summer pasta with grilled vegetables
  
• high-protein vegetarian pasta ideas
  
• easy creamy pasta salad for weeknights
  
• vegetarian pasta recipes
  
• classic pasta salad with seasonal ingredients

Final Thoughts: A Fall Pasta Recipe Worth Repeating

This autumn pasta recipe has it all: creamy, cheesy, veggie-packed, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you serve it as a side dish or the star of your next vegetarian dinner, it’s comfort food at its best.

Give it a try, then tweak it your way. And for more fall favorites and weeknight winners, follow my Pinterest page

Happy cooking!

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