This creamy pumpkin orzo is a comforting one-pan dish featuring tender pasta, warm autumn spices, and crispy sage leaves for a refined yet cozy meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines simplicity with elegance. It is quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The pumpkin adds natural creaminess without excessive dairy, while sage provides aromatic depth.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Orzo pasta
- Pumpkin purée
- Vegetable broth
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Fresh sage leaves
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté finely chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in orzo and toast lightly. Pour in vegetable broth and simmer until the orzo is tender. Mix in pumpkin purée, butter, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, crisp sage leaves in butter and garnish before serving.
Servings and Timing
Serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes.
Cooking time: 25 minutes.
Variations
You may add mushrooms, spinach, or roasted squash for additional texture. Dairy-free Parmesan alternatives work well for vegan versions.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of purée?
Yes, roasted and blended pumpkin works perfectly.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo contains gluten, but gluten-free versions are available.
Can this be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What cheese substitutes work best?
Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan are suitable.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prepare up to one day in advance.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Yes, it has mild and comforting flavors.
Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas are excellent additions.
What herbs work instead of sage?
Thyme or rosemary are good alternatives.
Does this reheat well?
Yes, with added liquid.
Can I use milk instead of broth?
Yes, but the flavor will be richer.
Conclusion
Creamy pumpkin orzo with crispy sage is a refined yet approachable dish that celebrates comfort and seasonal flavors in every bite.
Print
Creamy Pumpkin Orzo with Crispy Sage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and comforting dish featuring tender orzo pasta tossed in a creamy pumpkin sauce, finished with crispy sage leaves for an aromatic, autumn-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 10 fresh sage leaves
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until crispy, about 1 minute per side. Remove sage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Mix well until smooth.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked orzo and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Remove from heat, top with crispy sage leaves, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Serve with a green salad or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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