Cozy Butternut Orzo Skillet

This cozy butternut orzo skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines roasted butternut squash with tender orzo pasta, fresh herbs, and creamy parmesan. Perfect for a comforting dinner on chilly nights, it brings together seasonal ingredients in a vibrant, satisfying dish everyone will love. Each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds, bursting with earthy sweetness and savory notes.
ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
steps
- 1.
Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2.
Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
- 3.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- 4.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat with the oil and onion mixture.
- 6.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the dried thyme and rosemary, stirring occasionally.
- 7.
Cook until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
- 8.
Once the orzo is cooked, gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Cook until the spinach wilts.
- 9.
Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color.