One Pot “Marry Me” Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! My One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. This creamy, sun-dried tomato-infused delight will have everyone asking for seconds—or maybe even proposing! Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or date nights, this dish brings a touch of Tuscan charm right to your dining table.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just one pot involved, you can whip this up in no time. Perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and cream creates a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp and orzo.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender shrimp and creamy pasta. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time for quick reheats or pack it for lunches throughout the week.
• Customizable: Whether you want to add more veggies or swap proteins, this recipe is flexible enough to match your cravings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (thawed, drained and patted dry)
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil (reserved from the jar)
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flake
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz orzo (about 2 cups of uncooked orzo pasta)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and julienned)

To Finish

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Minced Fresh Parsley or Sliced Basil Leaves (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
• Spice it up: Want more heat? Add some sliced jalapeños or extra crushed red pepper flakes!

How to Make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by tossing your shrimp with sun-dried tomato oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This step infuses the shrimp with flavor before they’re sautéed. Cook them over medium heat until they turn pink and are fully cooked through—this usually takes just a few minutes. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside. If any water has released during cooking, be sure to drain it away so we can keep our dish nice and savory.

Step 2: Create Your Sauce

In the same pan, melt some butter over medium heat. This adds richness to our sauce! Next, sauté minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes until fragrant—this usually takes about two minutes. Now it’s time to pour in our chicken broth along with heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, uncooked orzo, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer; covering helps cook the orzo evenly while absorbing all those tasty flavors.

Step 3: Finish It Up

Once your orzo is tender—after about ten minutes—you’ll want to stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adding baby spinach at this point allows it to wilt perfectly into the dish without losing its bright green color. Finally, fold back in those beautiful shrimp we set aside earlier. Sprinkle with parsley or basil for that fresh finish!

And there you have it—a delicious bowl of One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta that’s ready to steal hearts! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to impress anyone at the dinner table!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture that holds up beautifully in this dish. If you can, purchase shrimp from a local fishmonger for the best quality.
• Season as You Go: Don’t just rely on the final seasoning! Adding salt and pepper at different stages enhances all the flavors throughout the cooking process.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative that still brings richness.
• Customize with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They add color, nutrition, and a personal touch to your recipe!
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the pasta sit covered for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more and gives you a creamier texture.

How to Serve One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dish! With its vibrant colors and rich aroma, you’ll want to showcase it beautifully on the table.

Garnishes

• Minced Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a bright flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Sliced Basil Leaves: Adding basil imparts an aromatic touch that enhances the Italian-inspired theme of your dish.
• Lemon Zest: A light grating of lemon zest right before serving can brighten up the dish beautifully, making each bite refreshing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta. Plus, it adds a comforting touch to your meal!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta while adding freshness.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides not just color but also a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy orzo.
• Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-rich vegetable is an excellent addition. Its slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the dish!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is perfect for meal prep! Not only is it quick to whip up, but the flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier when enjoyed the next day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, consume within 1 month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo in the One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape like ditalini or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How spicy is the One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

The spice level is mild due to just a touch of crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more crushed red pepper or even a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick!

What can I serve with One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine would also complement the flavors nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta as I am! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Try it out, savor every bite, and share it with someone special—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your cooking adventure!