Elevate your dinner with this luscious pasta dish, where the comforting creaminess meets the vibrant tastes of autumn!
This Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Orzo is an incredibly comforting meal that brings together tender roasted pumpkin and creamy cheese in a harmonious blend. With a rich and velvety sauce enveloping the orzo, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying experience. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion! You can find the full recipe with measurements at the end of the description or simply tap the ‘Jump to Recipe’ button.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavours
The magic of this orzo lies in its simplicity. Roasting the pumpkin enhances its natural sweetness, while garlic, nutmeg, and thyme add depth of flavour. A touch of lemon zest brightens the dish, and the creamy cheese creates a luscious sauce that clings to each orzo piece. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favourite herbs and spices to make this dish your own!
Easy Steps for the Perfect Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Orzo
Start by peeling and cubing your pumpkin, then roast it alongside a garlic bulb until tender and caramelised.
Cubed pumpkin, garlic, and thyme sprigs in a pan, all set to roast and bring out their rich flavours!
Once roasted, mash the pumpkin with the softened garlic and mix in cream, turmeric, and cream cheese to create a creamy sauce.
Mashing roasted pumpkin with cream in a pan, creating a smooth and creamy base for your delicious dish!
Cook the orzo until al dente, then combine it with the pumpkin mixture, adding some pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Mixing cooked orzo and grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy pumpkin mixture for a comforting and flavourful dish!
For more detailed steps and cooking times, refer to the full recipe below.
Dive into a bowl of creamy roasted pumpkin orzo, where autumn flavours come alive in every comforting bite!
Customising Your Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Orzo
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap pumpkin for butternut squash or add your favourite vegetables for extra nutrition. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. The flavour possibilities are endless!
Prep Time: 10 minsCook Time: 40 minsTotal Time: 50 mins
Servings4
Best Season
Fall
Description
This Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Orzo is the ultimate autumn comfort meal, combining rich, roasted pumpkin with a velvety blend of cream cheese, Parmesan, and fragrant spices. The sweetness of the pumpkin is perfectly balanced by the subtle warmth of nutmeg and turmeric, while the orzo absorbs all the delicious flavours, creating a luscious, creamy dish. It's quick to prepare and ideal for a cosy dinner or an easy weekend lunch. The vibrant lemon zest adds a fresh, zesty kick, making every bite simply irresistible! Serve with a sprinkle of thyme and extra Parmesan for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For Pumpkin orzo:
1/2 pumpkin (peeled, deseeded, and cubed)
1 garlic bulb
1/2tsp nutmeg
1/2tsp oregano
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
1bunch of thyme sprigs (Small)
1tbsp olive oil
200ml single cream
1/2tsp turmeric powder
1 lemon (zest only)
100g cream cheese
160g uncooked orzo
1cup pasta water
70g Parmesan (grated)
For garnish:
Thyme leaves
Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan-assisted).
In an ovenproof pan, place the pumpkin cubes and the garlic bulb with the top cut off.
Sprinkle nutmeg, oregano, salt, and pepper over the pumpkin. Add the thyme sprigs and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the pumpkin and garlic become tender.
Once done, remove and discard the roasted thyme sprigs. Squeeze the softened garlic cloves into the pan.
Add the single cream and mash the mixture using a fork or masher.
Mix in the turmeric powder, lemon zest, cream cheese, and more salt if necessary. Stir until well combined.
Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Then, add the cooked orzo to the pumpkin mixture along with a cup of pasta water. Mix thoroughly and cook for a few more minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and remove the pan from the heat.
When serving, garnish with roasted pumpkin pieces, extra Parmesan cheese, and thyme leaves for a delightful presentation. Enjoy your creamy roasted pumpkin orzo! Enjoy!
Pumpkin Variations:If you can't find pumpkin, you can easily substitute it with butternut squash or sweet potatoes, which will offer a similar creamy texture and flavour.
Make it Vegan:Swap the cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan for plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Customise the Flavours:Feel free to add a pinch of chilli flakes for some heat or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist!
