Shrimp Orzo

Shrimp orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes using one pan. With tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, spinach, and orzo cooked in a luscious cream sauce, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.

• One-pan preparation means minimal cleanup.

• Combines shrimp, orzo, and vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

• Creamy and comforting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

• Flexible enough for substitutions and variations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp:

• 1 lb raw shrimp, large, peeled, and deveined (16–20 count per pound)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Orzo and sauce:

• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1 cup orzo, uncooked

• 2 cups chicken stock

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 14 oz artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (1 can or about 1 cup)

• 4 oz fresh spinach

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Season shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and minced garlic, cooking about 2 minutes per side until just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, and olive oil. Toast for 2 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken stock and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.

5. Stir in spinach, artichokes, and cream. Cook until spinach wilts.

6. Return shrimp to the skillet and simmer 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.

7. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra smoked paprika if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 people

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

• Swap chicken stock with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist (replace shrimp with mushrooms or chickpeas).

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.

• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning.

• Substitute zucchini or asparagus for spinach for different vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

• Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long, as it can become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is ready when it turns pink and opaque with a slight curl in shape. Overcooking makes it tough.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the orzo and sauce ahead of time, then add shrimp just before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute for orzo?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous can be used, though cooking times may vary.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking and add a splash of stock if the skillet gets too dry.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to replace heavy cream.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Orzo contains wheat, but you can substitute with gluten-free orzo or rice.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely—Parmesan or Pecorino Romano would add a delicious salty finish.

Does this freeze well?

Cream-based pasta dishes don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

What side dishes go well with shrimp orzo?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make excellent pairings.

Conclusion

Shrimp orzo is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience—creamy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. With its one-pan preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe to add to your weeknight rotation. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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