One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Rich, creamy, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor, One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a quick and elegant dinner that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Inspired by the viral “Marry Me” dish phenomenon, this seafood twist combines juicy, pan-seared shrimp with tender orzo pasta, simmered together in a garlicky sun-dried tomato cream sauce. The result is a one-pan wonder that’s weeknight-easy but special enough for date night.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. Everything cooks in one pot—from toasting the orzo to simmering it in broth, all while absorbing the flavors of sautéed garlic, onion, and sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes. A touch of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds richness, while fresh herbs and citrus brighten it up just before serving. Whether you’re trying to impress or simply treat yourself, this dish will win hearts with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Magic – Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup and bold flavor.
2. Romantic & Impressive – Creamy, garlicky, and packed with shrimp—perfect for special nights.
3. Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, yet tastes like a gourmet meal.
4. Full of Flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan create a rich, savory base.
5. Customizable – Easily adaptable for dietary preferences or pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Orzo pasta
• Garlic
• Onion or shallots
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Chicken broth or seafood stock
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrients.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Swap the Protein: Use scallops, salmon, chicken, or tofu instead of shrimp.
• Use Half-and-Half: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish.
• Lemon Kick: Finish with lemon zest and juice for brightness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion (or shallots) and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Orzo

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and orzo pasta. Toast for 1–2 minutes to coat the orzo with flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken or seafood broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed (10–12 minutes).

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 6: Return Shrimp to the Pan

Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan. Stir gently and let simmer for 1–2 more minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use large or jumbo shrimp for a meatier texture.
• Stir frequently while the orzo cooks to prevent sticking.
• Add extra broth if the orzo absorbs too quickly.
• Freshly grate the Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
• For richer flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in shallow bowls for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the sauce.
• Add a green salad with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
• Serve with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Not ideal for freezing, as the cream and orzo texture may change. If needed, freeze before adding cream and shrimp.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid overcooking shrimp during reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

2. What is orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully.

3. Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add more Parmesan for thickness.

4. Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly. Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.

5. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to heat through, or they’ll become rubbery.

6. What herbs work best?

Basil, parsley, or even thyme complement the dish well.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes—use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large enough skillet and adjust cooking time slightly.

9. How do I know when the orzo is done?

It should be tender but not mushy—taste after about 10 minutes.

10. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and aromatics ahead. Cook fresh for best results.

Conclusion

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. With bold flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan sauce, and juicy shrimp, it’s a guaranteed way to impress—whether you’re cooking for a loved one or just treating yourself to something special. Easy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for any occasion, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even your hand in marriage!).

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