If you are looking to wow your taste buds with something comforting, flavorful, and effortless, the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe is about to become your new kitchen obsession. This dish combines tender shrimp, creamy orzo, and a hint of spice all cooked in one beautiful skillet, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that feel both indulgent and homey. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner when you want something impressive but without the hassle of complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer—olive oil for a subtle richness, shrimp for succulent protein, orzo for a creamy, tender bite, and chicken broth to tie it all together with warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds a smooth, fruity base and helps cook the shrimp perfectly without sticking.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen, shrimp gives the dish juicy, flavorful seafood character.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the orzo with a delicious aroma and subtle pungency that wakes up your palate.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the lovely flavors in the pan for a creamy texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides savory depth and moisture, making the orzo perfectly tender.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and richness that makes this dish feel indulgent without being heavy.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that layers in a subtle earthiness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick, this spice adds warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the individual flavors appropriately.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, green brightness to contrast the creamy, spiced orzo and shrimp.
How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the shrimp
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn that perfect pink color and are cooked through. This quick, high-heat technique locks in their moisture and keeps the texture tender. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside so they don’t overcook in the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for just 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step builds a flavorful foundation that will infuse the orzo and broth with warmth.
Step 3: Cook the orzo
Add the orzo pasta straight into the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring this to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it cook uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo has softened and absorbed most of the broth. This method ensures that every tiny pasta grain becomes creamy and perfectly cooked.
Step 4: Add cream and seasonings
Once the orzo has reached that ideal tenderness, stir in the heavy cream to add silky richness. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and red pepper flakes if you’re using them for a subtle heat. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste—this final touch rounds out the flavors wonderfully.
Step 5: Return shrimp and combine
Finally, add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together so the shrimp gets coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce. This step warms the shrimp again just enough without overcooking it, ensuring each bite bursts with juicy, garlicky goodness.
How to Serve One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also a slightly herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. For a little extra zest, you can even add a squeeze of lemon juice or some lemon zest right before serving to brighten up the whole dish.
Side Dishes
This creamy shrimp and orzo dish shines on its own but pairing it with a crisp, refreshing side salad or some roasted vegetables creates a well-rounded meal. Think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette or roasted asparagus with a dash of lemon and olive oil to complement the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests or just love a beautiful plate, serve the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe in shallow bowls, letting the creamy orzo pool at the bottom while the shrimp sit on top. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a balsamic glaze for a gourmet-looking finish that’s sure to catch eyes and appetites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy texture can thicken as it chills, so it’s best eaten within that window for maximum freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, this dish can handle it, though the creaminess might separate slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months, and be sure to thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low-medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce back up. Stir gently to keep the shrimp tender and avoid overcooking. Microwave reheating works too but be careful not to dry out the shrimp by heating in short intervals.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely and prevents excess moisture from watering down the sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk as dairy-free alternatives, though the texture will be slightly lighter. Adjust seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle, background heat that warms the palate without overwhelming the delicate shrimp and creamy orzo. You can always omit or reduce the amount based on your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap regular orzo for a gluten-free version or use a small pasta like rice or quinoa pearls to keep the same lovely texture without gluten.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This recipe is perfect for weeknights because it only takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling 20 minutes from start to finish for a fresh, homemade meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe enough if you want a delicious, fuss-free dinner that feels special every time. It’s a beautiful balance of creamy, garlicky, and slightly spicy that will have everyone asking for seconds. Grab those ingredients and dive into this cozy skillet meal—you won’t regret it!
Print
One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo dish is a quick and delicious meal featuring tender shrimp cooked in a creamy, flavorful orzo pasta base. With the convenience of a single skillet, it delivers a perfect balance of garlic-infused shrimp, rich cream, and aromatic herbs in just 20 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting, elegant seafood pasta.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the oil and garlic flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make the creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until the sauce is well combined and creamy.
- Combine shrimp and garnish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently stir to combine everything evenly. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- You can omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright flavor, but fresh basil can be a nice alternative garnish.
