Go Back
+ servings
Shrimp Orzo

Creamy Shrimp Orzo: A Quick One-Pan Wonder You’ll Love

This creamy shrimp orzo is a quick and delicious one-pan dinner, packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for any weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp Peeled and deveined
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Butter can be used instead
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is an alternative
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Asparagus Chopped
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a bowl, combine shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, adding garlic in the last 30 seconds. Transfer shrimp to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes and dry orzo. Toast for about 1 minute to enhance flavor.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
  4. Stir in asparagus and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender.
  5. Add spinach and heavy cream, mixing until spinach wilts and sauce becomes creamy. Cook for 2 minutes.
  6. Return shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently for about 1 minute. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, avoid overcooking shrimp and keep a close eye on the orzo. Pair with garlic bread or mixed green salad for a complete meal.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!