Orzo with Butternut Squash Sage (Print Version)

Creamy orzo pairs with roasted squash and sage, topped with Parmesan for a warm, satisfying vegetarian meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium butternut squash (about 28 oz), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Pasta

04 - 10.5 oz orzo pasta

→ Herbs & Flavor

05 - 2 tbsp fresh sage leaves, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil
07 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
08 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Liquids

11 - 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
12 - 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

→ Cheese

13 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and tender.
02 - In a large skillet or saucepan, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and chopped sage, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
03 - Add orzo to the pan and stir to coat with fat. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly colored.
04 - Pour in dry white wine, if using, and stir constantly until it is mostly evaporated.
05 - Add vegetable broth in 2 to 3 increments, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to absorb before each addition. Continue cooking for 10 to 12 minutes until orzo is tender but remains al dente.
06 - Fold in roasted butternut squash, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add additional broth or water for creaminess if needed.
07 - Dish immediately, garnished with extra sage leaves and Parmesan cheese.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Quick enough for busy weeknights ready in under an hour
  • Minimal cleanup since everything comes together in one skillet
  • Delicious layers of flavor with caramelized squash and fresh sage
  • Flexible for veggie lovers and those who want to keep dinner meatless
02 -
  • Butternut squash is packed with fiber vitamins and a sweet touch that makes pasta irresistible
  • This recipe reheats beautifully so lunch the next day is guaranteed to make you happy
  • Perfect cozy vegetarian main that feels special for both weeknights and dinner parties
03 -
  • Cut your squash into small even cubes so it roasts quickly and evenly
  • Toast the orzo in butter and oil for the richest flavor base
  • Do not skip freshly grating the Parmesan as it melts so much better in the finished dish

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