Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Name: Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced; 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 16 ounces vegetable broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup sweet onion, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon allspice; 1 pinch ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup cream; 5 sage leaves, fresh; Fresh sage leaves for garnish; Parmesan cheese for garnish; Mozzarella cheese for garnish; Fresh thyme for garnish

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: October 17, 2025

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Introduction to Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Life gets so hectic, doesn’t it? Trying to juggle work and family and all the other things the last thing to have time for seems to be preparing a gourmet meal. Enter Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo. This dish constitutes my ace-in-the-hole for cozy family dinners. It’s creamy, comforting, and insanely easy. Just several fresh ingredients and you have got a meal not only filling bellies but also warming hearts. So bring on those busy nights and turn an average evening into a scrumptious affair your whole family will look forward to.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

This Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo is the epitome of comfort food. Picture a warm, creamy dish that envelops you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash effortlessly melds with the gooey mozzarella and savory Parmesan, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. Ready in just an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, making dinner less of a chore and more of a culinary treat!

Ingredients for Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Understanding your ingredients is key to achieving the perfect Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo. Each component brings something special to the table!

Butternut Squash: This vibrant, orange vegetable acts as the creamy base, infusing the dish with natural sweetness and nutrition.
Olive Oil: A staple in my kitchen, it adds richness and helps roast the squash until golden and tender.
Vegetable Broth: This flavorful liquid enhances the orzo, providing depth that elevates the entire dish.
Orzo Pasta: These delightful little pasta pieces soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite a satisfaction.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses wonderful aromatic goodness, giving the dish a savory kick.
Sweet Onion: Finely chopped, sweet onion balances the flavors and brings a hint of sweetness to the mixture.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors and provide balance.
Allspice, Ground Cloves, and Ground Cinnamon: These spices add warmth and complexity, creating a cozy flavor profile.
Cheeses (Mozzarella and Parmesan): The stars of this dish! Mozzarella brings that melty gooeyness we adore, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty hit.
Cream: This indulgent addition adds an extra layer of creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
Fresh Sage Leaves: A fragrant herb that adds a lovely touch of earthiness.
Garnishes (Extra Cheeses, Sage, and Thyme): These elevate the presentation and flavor, inviting everyone to dig in!

Exact quantities can be found at the end for convenient printing. Let’s keep cooking!

How to Make Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this delicious Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo! Each step brings us closer to that creamy, comforting dish that everyone will adore. You’ll find that it’s straightforward, even for the busiest of cooks. Ready? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

First things first, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). While that’s heating up, toss your diced butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Lay the squash out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roasting takes about 25–30 minutes, but make sure to stir it occasionally, so every piece gets that lovely golden touch. The aroma will fill your kitchen and keep you eager for the next step!

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

Next up, let’s get that orzo cooking! In a large pot, bring your vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in the orzo pasta and cover the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo absorbs nearly all the liquid and is tender. Watching it cook is like seeing pasta magic happen—a true delight!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Now, grab that trusty skillet. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped sweet onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté for about 3–4 minutes. You’ll want them softened and fragrant, not burnt! This is where the magic begins, as these aromatics will set the stage for our cheesy delight.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

It’s time for the showstopper: the cheese sauce! Add half of those fresh sage leaves, along with the shredded mozzarella and cream, to your skillet. Lower the heat and whisk continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens. This creates a creamy embrace for our orzo and roasted squash. The rich flavors swirling together will make you want to dive right in!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your orzo and butternut squash are cooked to perfection, gently fold them into the cheese sauce. Stir everything together, making sure each piece is well-coated with that dreamy, cheesy goodness. It’s like wrapping a warm, cozy blanket around your dinner. Keep it on low heat while incorporating, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, the moment of truth! Spoon the Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo into your favorite serving dish. Garnish it with those remaining fresh sage leaves, a sprinkle of extra mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh thyme. Not only do these garnishes enhance flavor, but they also make your dish look stunning. Serve it warm, and watch as smiles light up the room!

Tips for Success

Check the butternut squash occasionally while roasting to get that perfect tenderness.
For added depth, consider using homemade vegetable broth if you have it on hand.
Substitute orzo with other pasta types like quinoa or whole grain for a twist.
Add a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic lift to your cheese sauce.
Mix in seasonal veggies like spinach or kale for extra nutrition!

Equipment Needed

Large baking sheet for roasting the squash.
Large pot for cooking the orzo. A stockpot or Dutch oven works too!
Skillet to sauté aromatics and create the cheese sauce.
Whisk for stirring that glorious cheese sauce to perfection.
Wooden spoon or spatula for folding everything together.

Variations

For a twist, try incorporating roasted Brussels sprouts or kale for a burst of color and nutrients.
Swap out the cheeses! Use Gruyère or feta for a different flavor profile that still retains creaminess.
Add protein by mixing in cooked chicken or turkey to make it more filling for heartier appetites.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Incorporate seasonal ingredients like diced apples in fall or fresh peas in spring to keep it vibrant all year round.
Experiment with spices—add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick!

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls to soak up that creamy sauce.
Consider a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese and fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation!
For a cozy family dinner, set the table with fall-themed decorations or candles to elevate the ambiance.

FAQs about Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo

Can I make Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

How do I reheat leftovers?
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, simply transfer the orzo to a saucepan over low heat. Stir in a splash of cream or broth to reintroduce that creamy texture. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! To make Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo gluten-free, just substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa. The flavor will still shine, and everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?
If fresh sage isn’t available, dried sage works in a pinch! Just remember to use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

Can I freeze Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to two months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Do I have to use mozzarella and Parmesan?
Not at all! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses and find your favorite combination. Cheese blends like Italian blend or Gruyère can add a delightful twist to the creamy sauce!

Final Thoughts

Cooking is more than just a task; it’s a way to bring loved ones together. My Cheesy Butternut Squash Orzo is the perfect example of this joy. The creamy warmth of this dish wraps around your family like a comforting hug. It’s easy to prepare, making it a reliable choice on busy nights. Knowing I can whip up something nutritious that puts smiles on faces fills my heart with gratitude. So, gather your family around the table, share stories, and relish every creamy, delicious bite! After all, these moments are what truly matter.