Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe

I absolutely love this Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe because it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. The roasted butternut squash turns wonderfully caramelized and sweet, balancing the slight earthiness of kale, all tied together with tender, creamy orzo pasta. It’s one of those comforting dishes that feels just right when you want something both nutritious and indulgent.

You’ll find that this recipe works beautifully as a main for a weeknight dinner or as a hearty side when you’re entertaining. What’s great is how simple it is to throw together, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. I’ve been making this for years and it never fails to impress, whether I’m cooking for just myself or the whole family.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe come together for a balanced, savory, and creamy meal. Choosing fresh, good-quality produce and a flavorful vegetable stock really makes a difference, so keep that in mind when shopping.

• Butternut Squash: Make sure to use a ripe, firm squash; it roasts beautifully to a caramelized sweetness.
• Shallots: They add a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Garlic: Essential for that aromatic punch, use fresh cloves minced finely.
• Fresh Sage Leaves: Fresh is best here for a fragrant, earthy note; dried works but use less.
• Kale (preferably Cavolo Nero): Adds texture and a mild bitterness that balances the squash’s sweetness.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and creates a creamy consistency, almost risotto-like.
• Vegetable Stock: A rich, flavorful stock enhances the dish’s depth; try to avoid low-sodium types.
• Olive Oil: For roasting and sautéing; a good quality extra virgin makes a difference.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor, bringing everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: To season to taste and bring out the natural tastes of your ingredients.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe is how easily you can make it your own. I often tweak it depending on what I have on hand or who I’m feeding, and I think you’ll enjoy experimenting with these variations too.

• Make it Vegan: I swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese blend, and it’s surprisingly satisfying.
• Change the Greens: If I can’t find cavolo nero, I use kale or even baby spinach for a milder flavor.
• Add Protein: Occasionally I toss in chickpeas or cook up some grilled chicken strips when I want a heartier meal.
• Spicy Twist: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté step gives it a nice kick without overpowering the sweetness.

How to Make Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash to Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Peel, deseed, and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss the cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out evenly on a baking sheet. Scatter about half your fresh sage leaves on top. Roast for about 45 minutes until they’re golden, caramelized, and soft. This roasting step is key because it builds a deep, sweet flavor that transforms the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Prepare the Base

While the squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a deep pan over low heat. Add finely chopped shallots, minced garlic, and the rest of the sage leaves (minced if using fresh or dried). Sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened—but don’t let them brown, or you risk bitterness. This gentle cooking creates a flavorful base without overpowering the pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo with Kale

Pour 1 litre of vegetable stock into your pan with the aromatics and kale, then bring to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to keep a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking—this step encourages that creamy, risotto-like texture. Cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but with a slight bite. If the mixture gets too thick, don’t hesitate to add up to ½ cup more stock or water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Roasted Squash

Once the orzo is cooked to your liking, remove the pan from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Then, plate your creamy orzo and top it generously with the roasted butternut squash. Serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting—you’ll love the combination of the creamy, cheesy pasta and sweet roasted squash with tender greens.

How to Serve Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this dish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and some cracked black pepper. Sometimes, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts adds the perfect final touch for crunch. Fresh sage leaves as a garnish also look lovely and reinforce the herbal flavor.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. For heartier meals, I serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted chicken. The creamy texture and flavors balance well with anything light and fresh to round out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls, topped with microgreens or edible flowers for a colorful pop. You can also spoon it into hollowed-out roasted pumpkin halves for an impressive autumnal display that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where it stays good for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day, just keep in mind the texture of the orzo thickens as it cools.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish successfully by portioning it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen it up.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove to prevent drying out. Stir often and add a little vegetable stock or water to bring back that creamy, luscious texture right before serving.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Orzo Pasta Recipe holds a special place on my dinner table. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and warmly familiar without being boring. I promise you’ll enjoy how the flavors marry effortlessly while still leaving plenty of room for your personal touches. Give it a try next time you want to make something nourishing and delicious with a bit of flair—you’ll be so glad you did!

Print