Description
This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a creamy, dreamy seafood dinner that’s full of bold flavors and comes together in just 30 minutes. Juicy, tender shrimp are cooked in a garlicky, sun-dried tomato cream sauce with orzo pasta, Parmesan, and Italian herbs — all in one pan. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
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2 ½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley, extra Parmesan
Instructions
Step 1 – Sear the Shrimp:
Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2 – Sauté Aromatics:
Lower heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, red pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3 – Cook the Orzo:
Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4 – Finish the Sauce:
Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream and Parmesan cheese. Return shrimp to the pan and cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through and the sauce is thickened.
Step 5 – Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped basil, parsley, or extra cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of white wine with the broth.
Want more veggies? Add spinach or chopped roasted red peppers just before serving.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Keywords: marry me shrimp, shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp and orzo, sun-dried tomato pasta, one pot dinner, romantic dinner recipe, weeknight shrimp recipe