A Healtheir Take on Comfort Food
When it comes to choosing healthier alternatives for dinner, this Butternut Squash Orzo is a standout option. While it doesn’t mimic the taste of mac and cheese, it offers a similar comfort factor with a creamy, satisfying texture and rich flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Packed with the nutrient-dense benefits of butternut squash, including vitamins A and C, this dish is both indulgent and nourishing. Topped with Parmesan or a vegan alternative, it’s a versatile recipe perfect for swapping out heavier pasta dishes like mac and cheese without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, seeds scooped out
1 1/2 white onions, cut in half
1 whole head of garlic
2–3 tbsp olive oil (plus more for garnish)
1 tsp garlic granules
1 tsp dried thyme
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 sprig fresh rosemary
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 1/2–2 cups vegetable stock
1 pound orzo
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
Additional Parmesan (or vegan alternative) for garnish
Preparation
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the butternut squash halves on the baking sheet with the cut side up. Drizzle olive oil into the cavity of each half, and sprinkle with garlic granules, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the onion halves and the head of garlic (cut side up) to the sheet. Scatter the fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs around the vegetables. Flip the squash over so the cut side is down, letting the oil and seasoning spread.
3. Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the squash is tender, onions are soft, and garlic is golden.
4. Scoop the squash flesh into a blender. Add roasted onions and squeeze the garlic cloves from their skins into the blender. Pour in vegetable stock and blend until smooth, adding more as needed to reach a creamy consistency. Season to taste.
5. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain (reserving some pasta water) and set aside.
6. Combine the orzo with the butternut squash sauce in a large bowl or saucepan. Stir in Parmesan, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture.
7. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.