Description
This one-pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp, tender orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan come together in a rich, dreamy sauce—perfect for a date night or an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo & Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth (or seafood broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Sauté the Shrimp:
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Orzo:
- In the same pan, melt butter and add garlic, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.
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Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Finish with Cream & Shrimp:
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan and toss to coat.
- Finish with lemon juice and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
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Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan and crusty bread!
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken or scallops.
- Make it lighter by substituting half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Want a spicy kick? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce!