Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Name: Shrimp Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken stock; 5 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 14 oz artichoke hearts (drained and chopped); 4 oz fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; Olive oil; Smoked paprika; Italian seasoning; Salt; Pepper

Recipe By:

Alexandra

Posted:

May 25, 2025

Updated:

May 25, 2025

Pin1

1 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) is the perfect dish for a hassle-free dinner. This delightful recipe combines succulent shrimp with orzo pasta in a creamy sauce, bringing together rich flavors and textures in just 30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions, this one-pan wonder will impress your family and friends with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Shrimp Orzo recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
One-Pan Convenience: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze—enjoy your meal without the stress of multiple pots and pans.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich flavor profile that elevates this simple dish.
Versatile Meal Option: Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Shrimp Orzo fits any occasion beautifully.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from spinach and artichokes, this meal is as healthy as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Shrimp Orzo effectively, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for cooking everything in one pan while allowing enough space to sear shrimp perfectly without overcrowding.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife simplifies chopping ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, making prep work quicker.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Shrimp orzo is almost like risotto but so much easier and quicker to make! This Italian-style dinner takes only 30 minutes and is made in one pan. Seared garlic shrimp and orzo are a perfect combo for a simple weeknight meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb raw shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined – 16 or 20 count per 1 pound of shrimp)
– 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
– 1/3 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

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Start by seasoning the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the seasoned shrimp along with minced garlic. Cook each side for about 2 minutes until they turn pink.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet; if necessary, cook in batches. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet (now empty), add chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the uncooked orzo and an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
Cook on medium heat while stirring for about 2 minutes until the orzo starts to brown slightly.
Pour in the chicken stock along with ¼ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer on medium-low heat.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; cook for about 5–10 minutes until the orzo is fully cooked through.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add fresh spinach, drained artichokes, and heavy cream into the skillet with the cooked orzo. Stir everything together over low-medium heat until the spinach wilts down.
Return the seared shrimp to the skillet along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Simmer for an additional couple of minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

Taste your Shrimp Orzo and season with additional salt, pepper, or smoked paprika as desired before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Orzo as a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please everyone!

How to Serve Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Serving Shrimp Orzo is a delightful experience that can be customized to fit any occasion. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or entertaining guests, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes can balance the richness of the Shrimp Orzo.
Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds a crunchy texture and complements the creamy orzo beautifully.

Add a Splash of Citrus

Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
Orange Segments: For a sweeter touch, fresh orange segments can enhance the overall taste profile.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for an extra pop of color and freshness.
Basil Leaves: Adding basil not only enhances flavor but also gives a lovely aromatic touch.

Serve with Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Focaccia: This soft and savory bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce.

How to Perfect Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Perfecting Shrimp Orzo is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

Bold seasonings: Don’t be shy with spices. Season generously to enhance the shrimp’s flavor.
Proper heat control: Use medium-high heat when searing shrimp to achieve that perfect golden crust without overcooking.
Stir regularly: When cooking orzo, stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor and nutrition.
Customize textures: Consider adding crunchy toppings like toasted pine nuts for added texture contrast.
Taste as you go: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed for balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Shrimp Orzo. Each option complements the flavors and makes for a satisfying dining experience.

Garlic Green Beans: Simple sautéed green beans with garlic add freshness and crunch.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender provides a vibrant touch.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that enhances Italian flavors.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad includes cucumber, olives, and feta cheese for added texture and taste.
Grilled Zucchini Ribbons: Lightly grilled zucchini can add a smoky flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory elements of the dish—grill or boil for best results.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or grains offer both visual appeal and substance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making shrimp orzo, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. To keep them tender, make sure not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning your shrimp and orzo is crucial for flavor. Always use salt, pepper, and spices like smoked paprika and Italian seasoning to enhance the dish.
Not stirring enough: Orzo can stick to the bottom of the pan if left unattended. Stir it occasionally while cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping.
Using cold stock: For best results, use warm chicken stock when adding it to the skillet. This helps maintain cooking temperature and allows the orzo to cook evenly.
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients like spinach and artichokes make a big difference in flavor. Opt for fresh or high-quality canned items for a better taste.
Disregarding texture: The cream sauce should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer; if too thick, add a splash of stock or cream.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Make sure to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Place cooled shrimp orzo in a freezer-safe container.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer orzo into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat gently over low-medium heat in a skillet. Add a splash of stock or cream if it seems dry, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of shrimp for this Shrimp Orzo recipe?

Yes, you can use any size of raw shrimp as long as they are peeled and deveined. Larger shrimp will give you a meatier bite while smaller ones will cook faster.

How can I customize my Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version or add cheese for extra creaminess.

What goes well with Shrimp Orzo?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine also complements its flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components separately (like searing shrimp) beforehand and combine them when ready to serve.

Is Shrimp Orzo healthy?

Shrimp is a great source of protein while orzo adds carbohydrates for energy. Including vegetables like spinach makes this meal balanced and nutritious!

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) is not only quick but also incredibly versatile! Its creamy texture paired with flavorful shrimp makes it an appealing choice any night of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flair. Give this recipe a try; it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!