Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash and Spinach
This Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash and Spinach is the perfect way to bring cozy fall vibes to the table. Creamy Parmesan, sweet butternut squash, and tender orzo make every bite rich and flavorful. It’s an easy side dish that is done in under 20 minutes.
This recipe is one of those meals that just came together one night and ended up being way too good not to share. I posted a little teaser on Instagram, and so many of you responded saying you needed the recipe! It may have taken me a year to finally get it on the blog, but I promise it was worth the wait.
I had a craving for creamy orzo (hello, pregnancy), and I just threw a few things together, and it turned out insanely delicious. It’s creamy, cozy, packed with fall flavors, and almost reminds me of an adult version of mac and cheese. It really doesn’t get much better than that! If you love cozy fall flavors as much as I do, be sure to try my Creamy Pumpkin Pasta recipe next!
Why you will love this Creamy Orzo Recipe
- One pot recipe – This orzo recipe is made in just one pot for easy cleanup.
- Uses frozen ingredients – I like to use frozen butternut squash and spinach in this recipe. You can also use fresh, but I love the ease of having the ingredients in the freezer that I can use at any time. Plus, frozen veggies are more budget-friendly and are even high in nutrients because they are picked at the peak of freshness and then frozen right away.
- A delicious side dish for any occasion – This easy recipe is simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet flavorful enough to serve at Thanksgiving or any other special occasion.
- Made with bone broth – My secret ingredient is FOND Butternut & Rosemary Bone Broth. It adds so much flavor and increases the protein and nutrients, too. Read more about why I love bone broth so much!
Ingredients for Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash and Spinach recipe
- Orzo – Although it looks like rice, orzo is actually a type of pasta. It pairs so well with the creamy sauce! You can find this rice-shaped pasta easily at grocery stores in the pasta aisle.
- Butternut squash – I like to use frozen butternut squash to keep things really easy, but fresh also works great. You will just need to cube the fresh butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.
- Broth – This is where my secret ingredient comes in. FOND Butternut & Rosemary Bone Broth (use code JESSICA-SALINAS for a discount) really intensifies the flavor and also adds protein and minerals to the dish. You can also use plain chicken bone broth, or regular chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Heavy cream – This is what makes the orzo super creamy and delicious.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds another layer of flavor and creaminess. I recommend using freshly shaved Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Spinach – I used spinach that I had in my freezer. Whenever I have fresh spinach that is going to go bad, I stick it in the freezer to use for smoothies or recipes like this! You can also use fresh spinach or even kale if you prefer.
Full ingredients list and measurements in the recipe card below.
Instructions to make Butternut Squash and Spinach Creamy Orzo
Step 1
In a medium skillet with high edges, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 2
Add the orzo and cook until it is toasted and golden brown.
Step 3
Add in the broth, butternut squash, thyme, and salt.
Step 4
Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer for 10 mins or until orzo is al dente.
Step 5
Next, add the heavy cream, Parmesan, and spinach. Stir to combine and cook until the cheese has melted and the spinach is softened and wilted.
Add to a serving bowl, and as a final touch, add freshly shaved parmesan cheese on top.
Recipe tips
- If you want to skip toasting the orzo, you can, but it helps bring out a delicious nutty flavor.
- If you are using fresh thyme, increase the amount to 1/2 tablespoon.
- If the orzo starts to stick or needs more liquid, add a couple tablespoons of water.
- I like to use frozen butternut squash because of how easy it is to use. If you’d like to use fresh squash, you can, but the cook times have not been tested. Fresh squash may take longer to become tender.
How to store this Creamy Orzo recipe
To store, add the creamy orzo to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for 3-5 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave until warmed through or add to a pot on the stovetop.
Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash and Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 1 ¾ cup broth
- 1 cup butternut squash frozen
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan freshly shaved
- 1 cup spinach
Instructions
- In a medium skillet with high edges, melt the butter over medium heat.1 Tablespoon butter
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.2 cloves garlic
- Add the orzo and cook until it is toasted and golden brown.1 cup orzo
- Add in the broth, butternut squash, thyme, and salt.1 ¾ cup broth, 1 cup butternut squash, ½ teaspoon thyme, ½ teaspoon salt
- Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer for 10 mins or until orzo is al dente.
- Next, add the heavy cream, Parmesan, and spinach. Stir to combine and cook until the cheese has melted and the spinach is softened and wilted.⅓ cup heavy cream, ½ cup Parmesan, 1 cup spinach
- Add to a serving bowl, and as a final touch, add freshly shaved parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- I love using FOND Butternut & Rosemary Bone Broth (use code JESSICA-SALINAS for a discount) but you can use any type of broth you have on hand.
- If you want to skip toasting the orzo, you can, but it helps bring out a delicious nutty flavor.
- If you are using fresh thyme, increase the amount to 1/2 tablespoon.
- If the orzo starts to stick or needs more liquid, add a couple of tablespoons of water.
- I like to use frozen butternut squash because of how easy it is to use. If you’d like to use fresh squash, you can, but the cook times have not been tested. Fresh squash may take longer to become tender.
Nutrition
Nutrition facts are automatically calculated and are only estimates.
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I love this recipe so much. It is so easy to make and comes together in one pot. Pair it with an easy protein like chicken or salmon for an easy and delicious meal!