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Homemade Butternut Squash Bake

Cozy Homemade Butternut Squash Bake for Effortless Comfort

This Homemade Butternut Squash Bake with Orzo and Halloumi is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetable Base
  • 1 large Red Onion Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 1 lb Butternut Squash Cubed; fresh is firmer, while frozen cooks faster.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Crushed; adjust quantity based on your preference.
  • 0.5 lb Cherry Tomatoes Adds freshness and bursts of flavor; canned tomatoes can work if needed.
Pasta
  • 1.5 cups Dry Orzo Pasta Opt for gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free meal.
  • 3 cups Vegetable Broth Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness.
Flavoring
  • 2 tsp Olive Oil Aids in roasting and adds richness; avocado oil is a great alternative.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Adds warmth and depth; smoked paprika can introduce a lovely smoky flavor.
  • Sea Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • Ground Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • 2 tbsp Pesto Adds herby brightness; you can use homemade or substitute with another herb blend.
Creamy Finish
  • 8 oz Halloumi Cheese Cubed; offers a unique and creamy texture when baked; feta can substitute but will crumble.

Equipment

  • oven
  • Roasting Dish
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 200℃ (400°F) if using a fan setting, or 220℃ (425°F) for conventional.
  2. In your large roasting dish, combine chopped red onion wedges, cubed butternut squash, and crushed garlic.
  3. Drizzle the vegetable mixture with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Toss everything well.
  4. Place the roasting dish in the preheated oven and roast uncovered for 30 minutes.
  5. Stir in the dry orzo pasta, followed by adding the vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, and pesto.
  6. Scatter the cubed halloumi cheese over the top of the mixture before returning the dish to the oven.
  7. Remove the dish from the oven and give it a gentle stir to mix the ingredients.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 12000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Homemade Butternut Squash Bake is sure to become a staple meal for your weeknight dinners, combining the best flavors in an effortless manner.

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