Cozy Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Sausage

A delightful dish of Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Sausage and Spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Black Bean Orzo, butternut squash, healthy meal, one-pan dinner, sausage, Spinach

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 45

Total Time: 1

Servings: servings

Calories: 550kcal

Equipment

Oven
large bowl
Baking Sheet
Pot
Skillet
colander

Ingredients

For the Orzo

1 cup Orzo pasta a small pasta shape that cooks quickly

For the Squash

1 medium Butternut squash natural sweetness caramelizes when roasted
2 tablespoons Olive oil for roasting
to taste Salt for seasoning
to taste Pepper for seasoning

For the Sausage Mixture

1 pound Sausage (chicken or turkey) a hearty component
1 medium Onion for sweetness and depth
3 cloves Garlic minced
1 teaspoon Ground cumin for warmth and spice

For the Greens

1 can Black beans packed with protein and fiber
4 cups Fresh spinach adds nutrients and color

For the Finish

½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish
2 tablespoons Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
1 medium Juice of lemon for a zesty kick

Instructions

Step‑By‑Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Spread onto a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until fork-tender.
Cook orzo pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, for about 6-8 minutes until browned.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Stir in ground cumin and cook for about 1 minute. Fold in black beans and spinach until spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine roasted butternut squash and cooked orzo into the skillet, mixing well. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese until slightly melted.
Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture, stir, and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve warm, garnished with parsley, and enjoy!

Notes

Prepare all ingredients before starting to streamline cooking. Cook the squash until fully fork-tender for best results. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

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