One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Welcome to the ultimate comfort meal you’ll want on repeat: One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta. This dish brings together tender, juicy shrimp and creamy orzo in a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor, all cooked effortlessly in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or any night you want to impress without fuss, this recipe combines the richness of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs to create a dish so irresistible it might just inspire a marriage proposal. If you’re craving a quick, creamy, and delicious meal, this one pot wonder will soon become your favorite go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Everything cooks in a single pot, saving you time and minimizing cleanup.
• Bold Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a rich, savory taste that’s unforgettable.
• Quick Prep and Cook: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Creamy Texture: The orzo pasta absorbs the flavorful broth, turning this meal into a silky and satisfying delight.
• Customizable Dish: Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies, spices, or protein swaps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple yet essential ingredients that perfectly balance taste, texture, and color. Each item plays a key role in building the luscious sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender orzo pasta, making every bite a treat.

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed medium shrimp work best for tender, flavorful seafood.
• Orzo Pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves: Adds depth and aroma, infusing the sauce with savory goodness.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provide a tangy, slightly sweet boost that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The cooking liquid that helps the orzo cook and flavors the entire dish.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates a silky, luscious texture that coats the pasta and shrimp.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty sharpness to finish the dish with finesse.
• Fresh Herbs (like basil or parsley): Brightens the whole dish and adds a fresh, green note.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp and garlic with a fragrant touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick if you enjoy a touch of heat.

Variations for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

This recipe is a fantastic canvas to unleash your creativity and customize according to your dietary needs or what’s in your pantry. Whether you want to add veggies, spice it up, or make it dairy-free, it’s all possible here.

• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for more heat.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and omit parmesan or use a vegan substitute.
• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken pieces, scallops, or tofu for variety.
• Lemon Twist: Stir in fresh lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.

How to Make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add peeled and deveined shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. This step unlocks the rich base flavors for your sauce.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the orzo pasta and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, mixing well so the pasta is coated with the savory garlic oil. Toast the orzo slightly to enhance its nutty flavor before adding broth.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Cook Orzo

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. This step transforms the dish into a luxurious, velvety meal that coats every bite beautifully.

Step 6: Return Shrimp and Add Herbs

Add the cooked shrimp back into the pot along with fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley. Gently fold everything together, warming the shrimp through without overcooking, then remove from heat.

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp ensure the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Add shrimp back at the end to prevent rubbery bites.
• Stir Frequently: Mix the orzo regularly while it cooks to avoid it sticking to the pot.
• Adjust Creaminess: Add cream gradually; you can always add more for a richer sauce.
• Reserve Some Broth: Keep a little broth aside before adding cream to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.

How to Serve One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds an inviting burst of color and a fresh herbal aroma that makes each serving pop. A squeeze of lemon juice can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance richness, or steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli for added veggies and texture contrast. Garlic bread also complements the creamy orzo perfectly if you want a carb-packed meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or on large white plates for an elegant presentation. Drizzle with high-quality olive oil or sprinkle with extra parmesan for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The shrimp and orzo will absorb more sauce overnight, making the flavors even more harmonious.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen but might lose some creaminess. For best results, freeze without cream and add fresh cream when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and maintain the silky texture. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and maintain flavor.

Is orzo pasta gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free versions made from rice or corn at most grocery stores.

How can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?

Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or tofu, use vegetable broth, and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly option.

Can I use another type of pasta?

While orzo’s small shape works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of broth or water while reheating or during cooking to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been hunting for a quick, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful dinner, your search ends here with One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing a loved one, this dish hits all the notes: easy prep, speedy cook time, and mouthwatering taste. Give it a try tonight and discover your new favorite comfort meal that’s sure to wow every time.

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