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–+ servings
Butternut Squash Bake

Comforting Butternut Squash Bake That's Family Approved

This Butternut Squash Bake is a comforting vegetarian dish perfect for busy weeknights, packed with flavor and easy to customize.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bake
  • 1 medium Red Onion Adds sweetness and depth; you can use yellow or shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 4 cups Butternut Squash Fresh or frozen cubes work perfectly.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Crush it for a stronger taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Helps roast the vegetables and adds richness; vegetable oil is a great substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika enhances the depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta Feel free to swap in other small pasta shapes if desired.
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth Opt for low-sodium to better control salt levels.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes work well as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
  • 1 cup Pesto Use any favorite store-bought or homemade version.
  • 1 cup Halloumi Cheese Adds creamy richness; feta or another firm cheese can also be used.

Equipment

  • Roasting dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 200℃/400°F (fan) or 220℃/425°F (gas mark 7).
  2. In a large roasting dish, combine the chopped red onion, cubed butternut squash, and crushed garlic.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until well-coated.
  4. Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in the roasting dish and roast for 30 minutes.
  5. Stir in dry orzo, vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, and pesto, ensuring orzo is submerged.
  6. Top with cubed halloumi cheese evenly across the surface.
  7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-25 minutes until orzo is al dente.
  8. Gently stir before serving to amalgamate flavors and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 220IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensure uniform 2cm pieces of squash for even cooking; adjust seasoning and add broth gradually to avoid mushiness.

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