Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Spinach
Looking for a cozy, nutritious dish to warm you up this autumn? Try this Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Spinach. This delightful recipe combines sweet roasted butternut squash with hearty black beans and savory sausage, all mixed with tender orzo pasta and fresh spinach. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also family-friendly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein, this comforting meal is a great way to embrace the flavors of fall while bringing everyone together at the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 12 oz cooked chicken sausage (cajun or smoked recommended)
- 15 oz black beans (canned, rinsed, drained)
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- Fresh thyme (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast until tender.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water in a pot. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the cooked chicken sausage for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Add roasted butternut squash and drained black beans to the skillet; stir gently to combine.
- Stir in fresh spinach just before serving until wilted. Garnish with fresh thyme.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg