“`html
If you love meals that come together quickly but pack a punch of flavor, then you have to try the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe. This dish brings tender, juicy shrimp to a creamy, cheesy orzo base that’s infused with garlic and herbs, creating the kind of comfort food that almost feels like a warm hug on a plate. What’s fantastic about this recipe is that everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze, while delivering restaurant-worthy taste right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and familiar but work together beautifully to create a vibrant medley of flavors and textures. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the silky creaminess or the fresh pop from herbs that make this recipe truly unforgettable.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that’s quick to cook and adds a lovely seafood sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sauté the shrimp perfectly, adding a subtle richness without overpowering.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: The delightful little pasta pearls soak up the creamy garlic sauce, making every bite velvety.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and a gentle heat that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess, turning the orzo into a dreamy, indulgent base.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Gives just enough liquid to cook the orzo and adds subtle savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce, giving it a sharp, salty balance and smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses the pasta with a fragrant herbal note that complements the shrimp wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the presentation and taste.
How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turns bright pink and opaque. This quick sear locks in their natural sweetness and gives them a slightly crisp edge. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside to keep the pot ready for the next step.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute, just until you can smell that irresistible fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen. Next, stir in the orzo pasta, heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the orzo will absorb the creamy sauce, becoming tender, while the sauce gradually thickens to a luscious consistency.
Step 3: Combine
Once your orzo is perfectly cooked and the sauce is creamy, it’s time to reunite your shrimp with the pasta. Toss them back into the pot, gently stirring to coat the shrimp in that irresistible sauce. The shrimp will warm back up while mingling beautifully with the orzo, blending all those flavors together in one pot.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Finally, sprinkle in the dried basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve this creamy, dreamy dish hot, garnishing with fresh parsley for a bright, vibrant finish that makes every plate look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for decoration here—it adds a wonderful herby brightness that cuts through the creamy richness. For an extra zing, try topping your dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. A few shavings of Parmesan on top also elevate the cheesy goodness and add a lovely visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own but pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to add a little crunch and freshness to your meal. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also wonderful for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls to show off the vibrant colors and textures. For dinner parties, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or basil over the top just before serving. You can even plate it alongside a lemon wedge for guests to squeeze on according to their taste preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again without losing any of that creamy, savory magic.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t highly recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. However, if you really want to freeze it, do so before adding the shrimp and cream, then combine and heat everything fresh upon thawing for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
When reheating the leftovers, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This will help revive the creamy texture without drying out the shrimp or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their tender texture.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option, but keep in mind the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, swap out the orzo pasta for a gluten-free pasta or even quinoa to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
This One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe is mild by default, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste if you want a little kick.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare ingredients like peeling shrimp and measuring spices ahead to speed up the cooking process on the day you plan to serve it.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe—it’s simple, delicious, and has that perfect balance of creaminess and bright flavors that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or impressing friends, this dish delivers on flavor and convenience. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
“`
Print
One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp are cooked right in the pot before adding orzo pasta and a luscious sauce made with garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is finished with aromatic basil, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley garnish for a vibrant touch.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Orzo Pasta and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Cook the Orzo: In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then stir in the orzo pasta, heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened into a creamy consistency.
- Combine: Return the cooked shrimp back into the pot with the creamy orzo. Toss everything together gently to combine the flavors and evenly distribute the shrimp throughout the pasta.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve the pasta hot, garnished generously with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep it tender and juicy.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger groups, just use a larger pot to cook evenly.
