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Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo

Delicious Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights

A delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo that combines rich flavors and comforting textures for a perfect cozy night meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Vegetables
  • 1 lb butternut squash peeled, cut into 1/2" cubes
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 2 Tbsp fresh sage finely chopped
Pasta
  • 8 oz dry orzo
Dairy
  • 1 oz Parmesan finely shredded, about 1/2 c.
Condiments & Seasoning
  • 2 tsp kosher salt divided
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper plus more for serving
Fats
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter divided
Liquid
  • 2 2/3 cups water plus 3 tbsp.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Blender

Method
 

Main Cooking Steps
  1. In a large, wide skillet, cover squash and 1 tsp. salt with water. Bring to a simmer over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat; drain squash.
  2. In the same skillet over medium heat, melt 2 Tbsp. butter. Add onion; season with 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent, 7 to 9 minutes. Add garlic and sage and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
  3. Add orzo and remaining 2 Tbsp. butter and cook, stirring occasionally, until toasty and golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Add 1/2 tsp. salt and 2 2/3 cups water, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed, 7 to 8 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, reserve 1 cup cooked squash. Transfer remaining squash to a blender. Add 3 Tbsp. water and blend until smooth.
  5. Add pureed squash to orzo mixture and stir until creamy and combined. Fold in Parmesan, 1/4 tsp. pepper, and reserved squash and cook, stirring, until cheese is melted and squash is heated through, about 3 minutes; season with salt, if needed.
  6. Divide orzo mixture among bowls. Top with more Parmesan and pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 18000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Creamy Butternut Squash Orzo recipe is perfect for cozy nights, and leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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