Description
Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Orzo
Ingredients
1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Directions
Roast the Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until golden and tender.
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook sliced Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Orzo
In the same skillet, cook orzo with vegetable broth over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 10-12 minutes).
Blend the Sauce
Blend the roasted butternut squash with the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add this creamy mixture to the cooked orzo.
Assemble the Dish
Stir in the cooked sausage slices and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary and extra Parmesan.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof meal. First, ensure your butternut squash cubes are uniform in size (about 1-inch) for even roasting. While the squash roasts, slice the sausage into half-inch coins. After browning the sausage, do not clean the skillet—the fond adds flavor. When cooking the orzo, maintain a gentle simmer and stir frequently to prevent sticking. For the sauce, use a high-speed blender or immersion blender for the smoothest texture. Finally, combine everything in the skillet and let it simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with simple sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans. For a heartier meal, add a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce. A glass of dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied red, like Chianti, complements the savory sausage and creamy squash perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pan dish involves roasting squash, browning sausage, cooking orzo in broth, blending the squash into a creamy sauce, and combining all components. The key stages are: 1) Roast seasoned squash. 2) Brown sausage. 3) Cook orzo in the same pan. 4) Blend squash with cream and cheese. 5) Combine and simmer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it 1-2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut cream works excellently. For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be less rich.
Is there a substitute for Italian sausage? Absolutely. You can use chicken sausage, plant-based sausage, or even ground meat seasoned with fennel, paprika, and garlic powder to mimic the flavor profile.
My orzo is sticky. What went wrong? This usually means the broth was absorbed too quickly. Ensure you are simmering, not boiling, vigorously, and stir often. If it sticks, add a few more tablespoons of broth or water.
Can I freeze this dish? It’s not recommended. The dairy-based sauce may separate upon thawing, and the orzo can become mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Squash Cubes: This leads to uneven roasting—some pieces will be mushy while others are undercooked.
- Skipping the Sausage Fond: Deglazing the browned sausage bits with the broth is crucial for building depth of flavor.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Cook just until al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce and simmered.
- Not Blending the Sauce Smoothly: A lumpy sauce won’t coat the orzo properly. Blend until completely smooth.
Conclusion
This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Orzo is the ultimate comfort food that elegantly combines sweet, savory, and creamy elements in one skillet. Its straightforward process yields impressive, restaurant-quality results perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this versatile and deeply satisfying dish. Enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors and the hearty goodness in every bite.