One Pot ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

In the cozy warmth of your kitchen, the aroma of sautéed garlic and shrimp wafts through the air, creating an instant sense of comfort. One Pot ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a quick yet indulgent dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. The creamy sauce envelops tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo, creating a meal that’s irresistibly delicious and easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends. It’s a delightful way to impress at dinner parties or to cozy up with your family. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare it a day in advance and gently reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creaminess of the sauce perfectly complements the shrimp.
• One pot means easy cleanup and minimal hassle.
• It’s a quick dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
• Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and boosts nutrition.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to prepare your One Pot ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp and Orzo Pasta.

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

For the Orzo Pasta

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, for garnish

Note: Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Shrimp: Use chicken or tofu for a different protein.
• Orzo: Substitute with any small pasta shape.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes if preferred.
• Broth: Water can replace broth in a pinch.

How to Make It

Here’s how to create your delicious meal in just a few simple steps.

Sauté

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook Shrimp

Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Toast Orzo

In the same pot, add the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Boil

Pour in the broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Combine Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.

Finish

Return the shrimp to the pot and mix until heated through.

Serve

Serve garnished with fresh basil.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should just turn pink and opaque.
• Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a bit more broth if needed.
• Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light, crisp salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Enjoy with a chilled white wine for a delightful evening.