15 Hearty Fall Orzo Recipes to Warm Up Your Autumn Dinners

As the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp, fall cooking calls for warm, comforting, and flavorful dishes.

Orzo, a tiny rice-shaped pasta, is the perfect base for autumn meals because it absorbs flavors beautifully and pairs well with seasonal ingredients.

From roasted vegetables and earthy mushrooms to creamy cheeses and savory proteins, orzo can transform simple fall ingredients into gourmet dishes.

In this guide, we’ve compiled 15 fall orzo recipes that are easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.

Each recipe highlights the best flavors of the season, offering inspiration for home cooks who want to embrace autumn ingredients in creative ways.

Whether you’re craving hearty mains, savory sides, or unique comfort foods, these orzo recipes will elevate your fall cooking game.

15 Hearty Fall Orzo Recipes to Warm Up Your Autumn Dinners

Orzo is a versatile pasta that shines in fall recipes, pairing perfectly with seasonal vegetables, spices, and proteins.

The 15 fall orzo recipes featured here showcase a variety of flavors, from creamy and cheesy to savory and herb-infused, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

By incorporating these recipes into your fall menu, you can enjoy comforting, flavorful meals that celebrate the season’s bounty.

These dishes are perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or impressing guests with simple yet sophisticated flavors.

Fall is a season of warmth and richness, and with these orzo recipes, your meals will reflect every delicious aspect of autumn.

Roasted Butternut Squash & Sage Orzo

This orzo dish combines tender roasted butternut squash with aromatic fresh sage for a perfect autumn meal.

The orzo absorbs the natural sweetness of squash while Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor.

Garlic and olive oil enhance the depth of flavor, making each bite comforting and satisfying.

It is perfect as a main or a hearty side for fall dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups roasted butternut squash, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20-25 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes.
• Add roasted squash and cooked orzo, tossing to combine.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh sage.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

The roasted squash and sage create a perfect harmony of flavors.

Orzo becomes tender and infused with autumn aromas.

It is comforting, flavorful, and visually appealing for fall meals.

Every bite delivers richness, warmth, and seasonal satisfaction.

Autumn Mushroom & Spinach Orzo

Earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach are combined with orzo for a flavorful fall dish.

Garlic and thyme provide depth, while a touch of cream makes the orzo luxuriously creamy.

This dish works well as a vegetarian main or an elegant side for dinner parties.

Its deep flavors and warm colors make it visually inviting and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package directions and drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and mushrooms until tender.
• Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
• Add cooked orzo and heavy cream, tossing to combine.
• Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra thyme if desired.

The mushrooms bring earthy depth while spinach adds freshness.

The creamy orzo creates a comforting, rich texture.

It is satisfying, visually appealing, and perfect for fall dinners.

Every bite is aromatic, hearty, and elegant.

Pumpkin & Feta Orzo

Sweet pumpkin puree meets tangy feta cheese in this delicious fall orzo dish.

Fresh herbs and toasted pine nuts add texture and complexity.

It is perfect as a festive side or a vegetarian main for cozy autumn evenings.

The vibrant orange pumpkin contrasts beautifully with the creamy white feta, making the dish visually appealing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
• Add pumpkin puree and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed.
• Stir in cooked orzo, feta cheese, and thyme.
• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

The combination of pumpkin and feta creates a perfect sweet-salty balance.

The toasted pine nuts add a crunchy texture.

It is flavorful, comforting, and visually stunning for fall meals.

Every bite delivers creamy, aromatic, and seasonal satisfaction.

Sausage & Roasted Red Pepper Orzo

Savory sausage pairs with sweet roasted red peppers in this hearty fall orzo dish.

Garlic, onion, and Italian herbs create depth and warmth, making it a perfect autumn comfort meal.

This orzo dish is ideal as a main for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The vibrant colors make it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package directions and drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
• Add sausage and roasted red peppers, stirring to combine.
• Mix in cooked orzo and oregano, tossing thoroughly.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

The savory sausage balances the sweetness of roasted peppers.

Orzo absorbs all the rich flavors, creating a hearty dish.

It is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for autumn dinners.

Every bite is aromatic, rich, and satisfying.

Autumn Vegetable & Parmesan Orzo

A medley of roasted autumn vegetables is combined with orzo and Parmesan for a simple yet elegant dish.

Caramelized vegetables enhance the natural sweetness of fall produce, while Parmesan adds savory depth.

It is perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main.

The colorful vegetables make this dish visually appealing and inviting for seasonal meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (carrots, squash, Brussels sprouts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Roast vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package directions and drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
• Add roasted vegetables and cooked orzo, tossing to combine.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm as a side or main dish.

The roasted vegetables bring natural sweetness and texture to the dish.

Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor.

It is visually appealing, comforting, and perfect for autumn meals.

Every bite delivers warmth, flavor, and seasonal satisfaction

Roasted Pumpkin & Kale Orzo

This orzo dish blends roasted pumpkin with sautéed kale for a hearty and nutritious fall meal.

The sweetness of pumpkin complements the slightly bitter kale, creating a balanced flavor profile.

Garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan enhance the richness, making it comforting yet elegant.

It is perfect as a main course or a vibrant side for autumn dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups roasted pumpkin cubes
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil for 1-2 minutes.
• Add kale and cook until wilted.
• Stir in roasted pumpkin and cooked orzo, tossing to combine.
• Fold in Parmesan and adjust seasoning.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan.

The roasted pumpkin and kale create a nutrient-rich, flavorful combination.

Orzo absorbs the autumn flavors beautifully.

It is hearty, comforting, and visually appealing for seasonal meals.

Every bite delivers a perfect blend of sweetness, earthiness, and richness.

Autumn Shrimp & Orzo

Juicy shrimp are paired with orzo, roasted vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a fall-inspired seafood dish.

Garlic, lemon, and olive oil enhance the natural flavors of shrimp and create a light, flavorful meal.

It is perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals that feel special.

The colorful vegetables and golden shrimp make it visually striking and appetizing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup roasted bell peppers and zucchini
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side until opaque.
• Stir in roasted vegetables and cooked orzo, tossing to combine.
• Season with oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

The shrimp add a tender, savory element to the dish.

The roasted vegetables and orzo absorb the flavorful juices beautifully.

It is elegant, colorful, and perfect for fall dining.

Every bite delivers richness, freshness, and seasonal comfort.

Sweet Potato & Pecan Orzo

This autumn-inspired orzo combines roasted sweet potatoes with toasted pecans for a slightly sweet, nutty dish.

Cinnamon, thyme, and Parmesan enhance the natural flavors, creating a comforting yet sophisticated meal.

It is perfect as a vegetarian main or a hearty side dish for family dinners.

The vibrant orange sweet potatoes contrast beautifully with the toasted pecans.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups roasted sweet potato cubes
• ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Roast sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté roasted sweet potatoes and thyme.
• Add cooked orzo and toss to combine.
• Fold in Parmesan cheese and sprinkle toasted pecans on top.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm for maximum flavor.

The sweet potatoes and pecans create a delightful balance of sweet and savory.

Orzo absorbs the rich, autumn-inspired flavors beautifully.

It is visually stunning, comforting, and perfect for seasonal meals.

Every bite delivers warmth, crunch, and satisfying autumn flavors.

Roasted Cauliflower & Lemon Orzo

This orzo dish features roasted cauliflower with bright lemon and fresh herbs for a light yet flavorful fall side.

Garlic and olive oil enhance the aroma, while Parmesan adds richness.

It is perfect for pairing with roasted meats or enjoying as a vegetarian main.

The golden roasted cauliflower contrasts beautifully with the pale orzo, making it visually appealing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups roasted cauliflower florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and roast cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20-25 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil for 1 minute.
• Add roasted cauliflower and cooked orzo, tossing to combine.
• Stir in lemon juice, zest, Parmesan, and parsley.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm as a side or light main dish.

The roasted cauliflower and lemon create a bright, flavorful combination.

Orzo absorbs the citrus and garlic beautifully.

It is light, elegant, and perfect for fall meals.

Every bite delivers freshness, warmth, and seasonal satisfaction.

Autumn Sausage, Apple & Orzo Skillet

This skillet meal combines savory sausage, sweet apples, and tender orzo for a hearty fall dinner.

Onions, sage, and a touch of butter create a rich, aromatic dish perfect for chilly evenings.

It is a one-pan meal that is flavorful, filling, and visually inviting.

The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked sausage, crumbled
• 1 large apple, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
• Add cooked sausage and diced apple, cooking until apples are slightly tender.
• Stir in cooked orzo and fresh sage, tossing to combine.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve warm, garnished with additional sage if desired.

The sweet apples balance the savory sausage beautifully.

Orzo absorbs the rich, autumn flavors in every bite.

It is comforting, hearty, and perfect for seasonal dinners.

Every bite delivers warmth, richness, and fall-inspired satisfaction.

Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Orzo

This orzo dish combines earthy roasted beets with creamy goat cheese for a colorful and flavorful fall meal.

Walnuts add crunch, while fresh thyme enhances the aromatic depth.

It is perfect as a festive side or a vegetarian main.

The deep red beets and creamy white cheese make this dish visually stunning.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups roasted beets, diced
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package directions and drain.
• In a skillet, combine cooked orzo, roasted beets, and fresh thyme, tossing gently.
• Fold in goat cheese and sprinkle with toasted walnuts.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra thyme if desired.

The roasted beets add earthy sweetness and vibrant color.

Goat cheese provides creamy richness while walnuts offer a satisfying crunch.

It is visually appealing, flavorful, and perfect for fall entertaining.

Every bite delivers balance, aroma, and seasonal elegance.

Autumn Chicken & Orzo Skillet

Tender chicken is combined with roasted autumn vegetables and orzo for a hearty one-pan fall meal.

Garlic, thyme, and Parmesan enhance the savory flavors, making this dish comforting and satisfying.

It is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with family.

The colorful vegetables and golden chicken make it visually inviting and appetizing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add cooked chicken and roasted vegetables, tossing to combine.
• Stir in cooked orzo, Parmesan cheese, and fresh thyme.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

The roasted vegetables and tender chicken create a hearty autumn flavor.

Orzo absorbs the savory, aromatic juices beautifully.

It is satisfying, comforting, and perfect for seasonal dinners.

Every bite delivers richness, warmth, and fall-inspired delight.

Butternut Squash, Cranberry & Orzo Salad

This fall orzo salad combines roasted butternut squash, tart cranberries, and toasted pecans for a festive dish.

A light maple vinaigrette ties the flavors together, balancing sweet and tangy notes.

It is perfect for potlucks, lunches, or as a colorful side for fall dinners.

The vibrant colors make it visually stunning and appetizing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups roasted butternut squash cubes
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup toasted pecans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Roast butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
• Cook orzo according to package directions and drain.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.
• Combine cooked orzo, roasted squash, cranberries, and pecans in a large bowl.
• Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss to coat.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

The combination of roasted squash and tart cranberries creates a balanced flavor.

Pecans add crunch and texture to the salad.

It is colorful, flavorful, and perfect for fall gatherings.

Every bite delivers a festive, satisfying autumn experience.

Spinach, Feta & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

This orzo dish blends tender spinach, tangy feta, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful fall meal.

Garlic and olive oil enhance the natural flavors, while pine nuts add crunch.

It is perfect as a vegetarian main or a side for autumn dinners.

The vibrant green spinach and red tomatoes make it visually inviting.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Cook orzo according to package directions and drain.
• In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add spinach and cook until wilted.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cooked orzo, tossing to combine.
• Fold in feta cheese and sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm for maximum flavor.

Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes create a fresh, vibrant combination.

Feta adds creamy tang while pine nuts bring a satisfying crunch.

It is flavorful, colorful, and perfect for autumn meals.

Every bite delivers richness, texture, and seasonal delight

Mushroom, Leek & Orzo Gratin

This creamy orzo gratin combines earthy mushrooms and tender leeks for a comforting fall dish.

Breadcrumbs and Parmesan create a golden, crispy topping while garlic and thyme enhance the flavor.

It is perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main for cozy autumn dinners.

The golden gratin is visually appealing and inviting.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup sliced leeks
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook orzo according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, sauté mushrooms, leeks, and garlic in butter until tender.
• Stir in cooked orzo and heavy cream, mixing thoroughly.
• Transfer to a baking dish and top with Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and thyme.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Serve warm as a comforting side or main dish.

The mushrooms and leeks create a rich, earthy flavor.

The creamy orzo and golden topping provide texture and indulgence.

It is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for fall gatherings.

Every bite delivers warmth, richness, and seasonal satisfaction.