One Pot Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: Easy Weeknight Recipe

Looking for a dish that will have your guests begging for seconds and asking for the recipe? Look no further than the delightful One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta! This recipe is a game changer, striking the perfect balance between convenience and gourmet flavor. From the succulent shrimp to the creamy orzo pasta, every bite is a symphony of taste and texture.

I first discovered this gem during a hectic week when I needed an impressive dish without the fuss. Little did I know that this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta would become my signature go-to, earning rave reviews and recipe requests every time. The secret lies in the sun-dried tomato oil-infused shrimp, the luscious cream sauce, and the perfectly cooked orzo that soaks up all the delicious flavors. Trust me, this recipe is a winner that will make you a culinary superstar in no time!

Table of Contents

Quick Benefits

Protein Perfection: Shrimp cooks quickly, looks impressive, and absorbs flavors beautifully, while providing a slight sweetness that contrasts with tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
Infused Depth: Using sun-dried tomato oil to sauté the shrimp adds incredible depth to the dish, elevating the flavors without extra effort.
Creamy Elegance: Heavy cream transforms the broth into a luxurious sauce without the need for a complex roux, creating a silky richness without making the dish heavy.
Flavor Harmony: Parmesan cheese adds a distinctive umami note that ties all the flavors together, melting into the creamy sauce for a cohesive taste experience.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: Easy Weeknight Recipe Recipe

Impressive Flavor: The creamy, flavor-packed pasta tastes sophisticated and time-consuming, but it only takes 35 minutes to make.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: It’s a signature dish that guarantees clean plates and recipe requests, even leading to a marriage proposal in one case!
Shrimp Perfection: The shrimp cooks quickly, looks impressive, and absorbs all the amazing flavors, contrasting beautifully with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
Elevated Ingredients: Using sun-dried tomato oil to sauté the shrimp infuses them with incredible depth, while Parmesan adds a distinctive umami note tying everything together.
Creamy & Rich: The heavy cream transforms the broth into a luxurious sauce without making the dish overly heavy, creating a silky richness effortlessly.
Perfect Pasta: The orzo cooks directly in the broth, absorbing all the flavors and maintaining a distinct texture that complements the sauce beautifully.
Versatile Adaptations: You can easily swap proteins like scallops or chicken thighs, create a vegetarian version with mushrooms, or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
Smart Cooking Tips: Lessons learned about pasta ratios and using sun-dried tomato oil as a hack for depth ensure a perfect result every time.
Ideal Pairings: Serve with crusty bread for sauce-sopping, a green salad for contrast, and a chilled white wine for a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage & Make-Ahead: Learn how to store leftovers, reheat for best results, and prep ahead for entertaining without compromising on freshness.

Ingredients for One Pot Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: Easy Weeknight Recipe

For the Shrimp

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil (reserved from jar)
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, thawed if frozen
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Pasta and Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh parsley or basil leaves, minced or sliced, for garnish
1/4 cup heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and julienned
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups baby spinach, packed
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
8 ounces orzo pasta (about 2 cups uncooked)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make One Pot Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: Easy Weeknight Recipe

Step 1: Season and cook the shrimp

In a medium bowl, coat shrimp with sun-dried tomato oil, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook seasoned shrimp in a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside on a plate. Drain any liquid released by the shrimp in the pan and wipe dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Start the sauce base

Place the skillet back on medium heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring often to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 3: Cook the orzo

Combine chicken broth, heavy cream, orzo pasta, Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in the skillet. Simmer, then cover and cook on low for about 10 minutes until orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finish the dish

After cooking the orzo until tender, uncover and mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add baby spinach and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Return shrimp and serve

Carefully mix the cooked shrimp into the orzo mixture and heat for about 1 minute. Top with minced fresh parsley or sliced basil leaves. Serve hot in shallow bowls, with optional Parmesan cheese on the side.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the “marry me” shrimp and orzo pasta, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain its quality. Leftovers should be refrigerated promptly in airtight containers and can be kept fresh for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce over time. When reheating, it is recommended to use the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating can help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

While the dish can be stored in the refrigerator for a short period, it is not advisable to freeze the shrimp and orzo pasta. Freezing may alter the texture of the pasta and cream sauce, resulting in a grainy consistency when thawed. If you are planning to make this dish ahead for entertaining, a useful strategy is to prepare everything up to the point of cooking the orzo. Finish the dish just before serving to ensure the freshest taste and texture. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the flavors of this impressive yet effortless dish for another meal without compromising its deliciousness.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian adaptation of this dish, you can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms. Mushrooms provide a meaty texture and add umami depth to the dish, creating a flavorful alternative to seafood. Sauté the mushrooms until they are browned and slightly caramelized to enhance their flavor and ensure they complement the creamy sauce and other ingredients well.

If you prefer a different type of pasta or do not have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with a similar small pasta like risotto or pearl couscous. These alternatives will also absorb the flavors of the sauce and broth effectively while maintaining a distinct texture. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the substitute pasta to ensure it is cooked al dente and perfectly complements the creamy sauce and other ingredients in the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this “marry me” shrimp and orzo pasta, consider serving it in individual mini cast iron skillets. This not only adds a charming rustic touch to the dish but also keeps the pasta warm throughout the meal. Top each skillet with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few sun-dried tomato slivers for a pop of color and flavor. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or basil for a final touch of freshness.

For a fun and interactive dining experience, set up a DIY pasta bar featuring this flavorful shrimp and orzo dish. Arrange bowls of additional toppings such as extra Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, chopped fresh herbs, and lemon wedges. Let your guests customize their plates to suit their taste preferences, creating a personalized dining experience that is sure to impress. Pair this interactive pasta bar with a selection of crusty bread and a variety of salad options to round out the meal.

FAQs for One Pot Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: Easy Weeknight Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?

Yes, you can prepare everything up to the point of cooking the orzo ahead of time. Finish cooking the dish just before serving to ensure the freshest results and to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft from sitting in the sauce for too long.

How should I reheat the leftovers?

Reheat the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to the pan while reheating to help revive the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Can I freeze this dish for later consumption?

It is not recommended to freeze this dish as both the pasta texture and cream sauce can become grainy upon thawing. It is best to enjoy this dish fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta has truly become a game-changer in my cooking repertoire, and I hope it brings as much delight to your table as it has to mine. The simplicity of this dish belies its incredible depth of flavors and the way it effortlessly wows even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of elegance and ease.

So, why not give this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta a try? Let its creamy sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and harmonious blend of ingredients elevate your dining experience with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. After all, sometimes the simplest recipes can have the most lasting impact, and I truly believe this dish will become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too. Happy cooking, and may your meals always be filled with love and flavor!