One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

If there’s one dish that could win hearts at first bite, it’s One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta. Creamy, savory, and bursting with bold flavors, this one-pan wonder combines tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta in a luscious sauce that’s rich, garlicky, and just a little bit spicy. It’s the kind of comforting meal that feels both fancy and effortless—ideal for a date night, dinner party, or just when you want to treat yourself.

Inspired by the viral “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, this seafood twist elevates things with smoky paprika, silky cream, and a punch of umami from parmesan and sun-dried tomato oil. Plus, everything cooks in one pot for easy prep and cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or elegance.

Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just for yourself, this recipe is romance in a bowl—no ring required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in a single pan for easy cleanup.
2. Restaurant-Quality at Home – Creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor.
3. Quick to Make – On the table in under 30 minutes.
4. Rich and Comforting – A blend of cream, cheese, and seasoned shrimp creates the ultimate cozy meal.
5. Perfect for Entertaining – Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.

Ingredients

• Shrimp
• Sun-dried tomato oil (reserved from jar)
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Butter
• Garlic
• Crushed red chili pepper flakes
• Low sodium chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Orzo pasta
• Italian seasoning
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Parmesan cheese
• Baby spinach
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Variations

Swap the Protein

Not a shrimp fan? Use chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.

Make it Spicier

Add more red chili flakes or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste.

Dairy-Free Version

Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a creamy, non-dairy alternative.

Add Veggies

Mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers blend beautifully with the creamy base.

Gluten-Free

Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or short-grain rice like arborio.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add butter, then garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth, cream, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Nestle the shrimp into the orzo mixture. Cover and cook for 5–6 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Step 6: Stir in Final Ingredients

Once orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, stir in parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley or basil and extra parmesan. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Large Shrimp – They cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Reserve the Sun-Dried Tomato Oil – Adds deep flavor and richness.
• Stir Frequently – Prevents the orzo from sticking as it cooks.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed – Add a splash more broth if orzo gets too dry.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – They only need a few minutes once added.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main dish with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Add a glass of chilled white wine for a date-night dinner.
• Top with extra chili flakes or parmesan for a punch of flavor.
• Garnish with lemon zest for a bright finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring in a bit of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

2. What is orzo, and can I substitute it?

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta. You can use another small pasta like ditalini or even arborio rice.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Reheat gently with a little extra cream or broth.

4. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from red chili flakes. Adjust to your heat preference.

5. What kind of cream should I use?

Heavy cream gives the richest result, but half-and-half can work for a lighter version.

6. How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Add them last and simmer gently until just pink—don’t let them go too long.

7. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit shrimp and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly.

9. Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes?

They add great flavor, but you can skip them or replace with cherry tomatoes.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy shrimp and pasta.

Conclusion

This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is everything you want in a comfort dish—creamy, garlicky, a little spicy, and packed with flavor. From the tender shrimp to the cheesy orzo and sun-dried tomatoes, each bite feels like a hug. Best of all, it’s made in one pot for maximum flavor and minimal mess. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply craving something delicious, this dish is guaranteed to be love at first bite.

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