Name: Homemade Butternut Squash and Halloumi Orzo Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 1 lb butternut squash, cubed (fresh or frozen); 3 garlic cloves, crushed; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste; 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 lb cherry tomatoes; 2 tbsp pesto; 8 oz halloumi cheese, cubed (about 2 cm pieces)

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Introduction

This Homemade Butternut Squash Bake is a delicious, comforting dish that combines roasted vegetables, tender orzo pasta, and golden halloumi cheese. It’s an easy all-in-one meal bursting with flavors and perfect for cozy dinners.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a roasted dish showing a base layer of golden-brown orzo pasta with a slightly crispy texture. On top, there are bright orange roasted butternut squash cubes, browned on the edges, scattered evenly. Red cherry tomatoes, some still on the vine, sit among the vegetables, with a shiny, juicy look. There are also chunks of browned, creamy white cheese grilled to a golden crust. Dark purple roasted red onion wedges add depth of color and texture. The edges of the dish have browned herbs and seasoning, adding a green touch around the sides. The dish rests on a white marbled surface with a white cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 lb butternut squash, cubed (fresh or frozen)
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
3 cups vegetable broth
1/2 lb cherry tomatoes
Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp pesto
8 oz halloumi cheese, cubed (about 2 cm pieces)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200℃/400°F fan (or 220℃/425°F/Gas Mark 7). In a large roasting dish, combine the red onion wedges, cubed butternut squash, and crushed garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, and season generously with sea salt and black pepper. Toss everything to coat evenly, then spread in an even layer and roast uncovered for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Remove the dish from the oven and add the dry orzo pasta, vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, and pesto to the roasted vegetables. Mix well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth. Scatter the cubed halloumi on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 15–25 minutes, until the halloumi is golden and the orzo is cooked through. Check at 15 minutes and add a splash of water if the dish looks dry.
Step 3: Once cooked, remove from the oven and give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors. Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality pesto for a more vibrant and herby flavor.
Try adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and texture.
For a vegan version, substitute halloumi with firm tofu and use vegan pesto.
Adjust the seasoning before serving, especially if you prefer more spice or herbs.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the orzo moist.

How to Serve

The dish is a close-up view of a white rectangular baking dish filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is soft, cooked orzo pasta with a light golden color mixed with herbs, the middle layer has roasted sweet orange-colored chunks of butternut or pumpkin, and the top layer shows browned, grilled cubes of cheese with a crispy outside, along with whole roasted cherry tomatoes that are bright red and slightly wrinkled. The food looks moist and covered in green herbs scattered on top. A vintage silver spoon lifts a portion of the dish, showing all layers together against a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works well and can save prep time. Just be sure to thaw and drain it properly before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

Is halloumi necessary for this bake?

Halloumi adds a lovely salty and chewy texture, but you can omit it or replace it with another cheese like feta or a vegan alternative if preferred.