Name: Halloumi & Butternut Squash Orzo Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488080H6M19S
Total time: PT-488080H6M19S
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 red onion, peeled and cut into wedges; 500 g butternut squash, cubed (fresh or frozen); 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 300 g dry orzo; 700 ml vegetable stock; 250 g cherry tomatoes; 2 tbsp pesto; 225 g halloumi, cut into 2 cm cubes; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

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This Halloumi & Butternut Squash Orzo Bake is the perfect blend of creamy pasta, roasted vegetables, and golden, crispy halloumi. Everything cooks together in one dish, making it both easy and satisfying. It’s a hearty vegetarian option that works well for weeknights or as a comforting dish to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan recipe means less cleanup.
Combines protein-rich halloumi with wholesome vegetables.
Cozy, cheesy, and filling while still balanced with veggies.
Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 red onion, peeled and cut into wedges
500 g (1.1 lb) butternut squash, cubed (fresh or frozen)
3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
300 g (11 oz) dry orzo
700 ml (3 cups) vegetable stock
250 g (9 oz) cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp pesto
225 g (8 oz) halloumi, cut into 2 cm cubes
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 200℃/400℉ fan, 220℃/425℉ conventional, or Gas Mark 7.
In a roasting dish, add onion, butternut squash, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, then toss to coat. Roast uncovered for 30 minutes.
Stir in the orzo, vegetable stock, cherry tomatoes, and pesto. Mix well.
Top evenly with halloumi cubes.
Bake uncovered for 15–25 minutes until the orzo is tender and the halloumi is golden. Check after 15 minutes, adding water if it begins to dry out before the pasta is fully cooked.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45–55 minutes
Total time: 55–65 minutes

Variations

Add greens like spinach, kale, or peas during the final 5 minutes of cooking.
Swap paprika for smoked paprika to deepen the flavor.
Use red pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist.
For extra spice, add chili flakes before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 180℃/350℉, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen.
Microwave individual portions with a bit of water for quick reheating.
Not recommended for freezing, as halloumi loses its texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works well and saves prep time.

What is orzo, and can I substitute it?

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta. You can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace halloumi with vegan cheese cubes and use vegan pesto.

How do I keep the orzo from drying out?

Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it looks dry before the orzo finishes cooking.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, roast the vegetables in advance, then finish baking with orzo and halloumi before serving.

Does halloumi melt like regular cheese?

No, halloumi softens and turns golden but doesn’t melt. That’s what gives it its unique texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Can I use another cheese instead of halloumi?

Yes, feta or mozzarella can work, but the texture and browning will be different.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild as written, but you can add chili flakes for heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure the orzo cooks evenly.

Conclusion

Halloumi & Butternut Squash Orzo Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together roasted vegetables, cheesy halloumi, and tender pasta in one pan. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s flavorful, filling, and easy to adapt to your taste.