One-Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo with Kale Recipe

Name: One-Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo with Kale
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small butternut squash, peeled, deseeded, & diced ((approx 1 pound or 4 cups cubed)); 1 large shallot, finely diced; 10-12 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped; 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated; 1.5 cups orzo; 1 cup dry, unoaked white wine; 2.5-3 cups vegetable stock/broth, divided; 1 small bunch kale, destemmed & shredded ((approx 2 cups chopped)); 0.5 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/8-1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; kosher salt (to season); ground black pepper (to season)

Published: November 11, 2025

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

This incredible Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo:

2 tablespoons olive oil – essential for sautéing and adding healthy fats to the dish.

1 small butternut squash (approx 1 pound or 4 cups cubed) – sweet and nutty, this is the star ingredient that adds depth and creaminess.

1 large shallot – finely diced for a mild onion flavor; it provides a fragrant base for the dish.

10–12 fresh sage leaves – finely chopped to give an earthy, aromatic touch that complements the squash beautifully.

6 cloves garlic – finely chopped or grated for a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.

1 ½ cups orzo – pasta that cooks quickly, soaking up all the lovely flavors of the broth and vegetables.

1 cup dry, unoaked white wine – enhances the dish’s flavor profile, adding a touch of acidity and complexity.

2 ½ – 3 cups vegetable stock/broth – use as needed for cooking the orzo and making the dish creamy.

1 small bunch kale (approx 2 cups chopped) – destemmed and shredded to add a nutritious, vibrant green layer to the mix.

½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese – enriches the dish, bringing creaminess and saltiness that wraps everything together.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter – to finish the dish off with a rich, velvety texture.

⅛–¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg – just a hint adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

Kosher salt and ground black pepper – to season and enhance all the wonderful flavors.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash and shallot, season them with kosher salt and black pepper, and cook for about 8-10 minutes. You want the shallot to be fragrant and the squash to be fork-tender. Stir in the chopped sage and minced garlic, and let the magic happen for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Reduce the heat to medium-low and toss in the orzo. Stir it constantly for about 1-2 minutes to toast it slightly—this little step makes the orzo even tastier!

Step 3: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. Simmer this for about 1-2 minutes until most of the wine has evaporated. This step gives the dish that depth of flavor we all crave.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Now it’s time for the broth! Add 1 cup of vegetable stock and stir frequently until the orzo absorbs the liquid. Keep adding the remaining stock, ½ cup at a time, stirring away until the orzo is creamy and al dente. Taste for doneness after about 10 minutes and adjust your seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Elements
Once the orzo reaches al dente perfection, stir in the shredded kale, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and a whisper of freshly grated nutmeg. Remove it from the heat when the kale is wilted and tender, and give it a taste—you may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon the orzo into individual bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, top with extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of browned butter and some crispy fried sage leaves. This dish is best enjoyed immediately—gather around the table, dig in, and savor the delightful flavors you’ve created!

You Must Know About Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

This showstopping Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo Cooking Process

To maximize flavor and efficiency, sauté the butternut squash and shallot first, then toast the orzo before deglazing with wine. Gradually add vegetable broth to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Add Your Touch to Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Feel free to customize this dish by swapping butternut squash for pumpkin or sweet potatoes, or adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Store any leftover orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up while warming on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

This professional-quality Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Cooking this recipe brings back sweet memories of my friends gathered around the table, savoring each bite with smiles of delight. It’s those moments that make cooking worthwhile and truly fulfilling.

FAQs About Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

What is Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo?

Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo is a delightful one-pot meal that combines tender orzo pasta with the rich, sweet flavors of butternut squash, earthy kale, and aromatic herbs. This comforting dish is enhanced with creamy parmesan cheese and a hint of nutmeg, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s not only simple to prepare but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep. This dish beautifully showcases autumn flavors while providing a satisfying, hearty meal that everyone will love.

Can I customize the Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo?

Absolutely! One of the best features of Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo is its versatility. You can swap out the butternut squash for pumpkin or sweet potatoes, depending on what you have on hand. If you’re looking to add protein, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Experimenting with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or thyme, can create a unique flavor profile, allowing this dish to cater to your specific taste preferences.

How do I store and reheat Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo?

To store your Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo, place it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up as you reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish may thicken when stored, so adding liquid will help restore its creamy consistency.

What main dishes pair well with Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo?

Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo is a superstar on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try it with stuffed bell peppers or a vibrant green salad. This orzo also complements rich, savory flavors, such as braised short ribs or herbed pork tenderloin, allowing you to create a deliciously satisfying dining experience.

Conclusion for Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

In summary, Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo is a wonderfully comforting dish perfect for any meal. Its unique blend of flavors and textures not only elevates your dining experience but can also be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Embrace the flavors of fall with this delicious recipe, and let it become a favorite in your home kitchen!