Delicious Shrimp Orzo: A Cozy One-Pan Dinner Ready in 30 Minutes

Succulent shrimp and tender orzo create a delightful culinary partnership in this quick and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Home cooks can easily transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal within half an hour.

The one-pan technique ensures minimal cleanup and maximum flavor development during the cooking process.

Seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts will appreciate the harmonious blend of proteins and carboyhydrates in this comfort-driven recipe.

Delicate shrimp are perfectly complemented by the soft, rice-like texture of orzo pasta, creating a balanced and nutritious meal.

Weeknight dinners become effortless and exciting with this streamlined cooking approach that delivers impressive results without complicated techniques.

Why Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) Hits The Spot

• Quick Weeknight Rescue: Whip up this delicious shrimp orzo in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup using a single skillet.
• Flavor-Packed Convenience: Combines tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichokes for a restaurant-quality meal that's bursting with Mediterranean-inspired tastes.
• Beginner-Friendly Cooking: Requires simple techniques like searing and simmering, making it perfect for home cooks with basic skills who want to create an impressive dinner without stress.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Adaptable for different occasions from busy weeknights to casual dinner parties, offering a balanced and satisfying meal that pleases both adults and picky eaters.

What You Need For Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

• Shrimp: Sweet and tender seafood that provides the main protein, best when fresh and deveined.

• Orzo: Pasta with rice-like shape that absorbs flavors beautifully, looks elegant on the plate.

• Paprika, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Classic spice combination that enhances shrimp's natural flavor.

• Garlic: Adds deep savory notes and classic Mediterranean aroma.

• Olive Oil: Provides smooth cooking base and rich flavor for the dish.

• Chicken Stock: Creates moisture and depth for cooking orzo.

• Heavy Cream: Adds rich, luxurious texture to the sauce.

• Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Artichokes: Colorful vegetables that bring moisture, tang, and nutritional boost, mix of Mediterranean flavors.

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

Step 1: Spice and Sear Shrimp

• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drop shrimp and garlic into the pan. Cook for 2 minutes per side until shrimp turns pink and develops a golden edge. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Toast and Simmer Orzo

• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Uncooked orzo
• Olive oil

Sauté ingredients for 2 minutes on medium heat until orzo looks lightly golden. Pour chicken stock and sprinkle salt into the pan. Bring liquid to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer. Let orzo cook 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta becomes tender.

Step 3: Create Creamy Vegetable Base

• Spinach
• Artichokes
• Heavy cream

Stir until spinach wilts and everything blends smoothly. Return seared shrimp to the skillet. Allow everything to warm together for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Finish and Plate

Season with additional salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your one-pan wonder!

Tips For Cooking Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

• Sear Shrimp to Perfection: Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
• Control Orzo Texture: Stir orzo frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and achieve a creamy, al dente consistency without becoming mushy.
• Prevent Cream Separation: Add heavy cream off direct heat and stir gently to maintain a smooth, silky sauce without curdling.
• Customize Protein Options: Swap shrimp with chicken, white fish, or plant-based protein for a versatile one-pan meal that suits different dietary needs.
• Boost Vegetable Power: Experiment with additional vegetables like roasted bell peppers or zucchini to increase nutritional value and add extra texture.

How To Store And Reheat Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of chicken stock to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
• Stovetop: Warm the orzo in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently and adding a little chicken stock or water to prevent sticking. Heat until the shrimp reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Avoid Freezing: Skip freezing this dish, as orzo and shrimp can become mushy and lose their texture when thawed.

What To Serve With Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp's delicate flavor and cuts through the creamy sauce, creating a refreshing balance.
• Enhance with Garlic Bread: Toasted, buttery garlic bread provides a crunchy texture contrast and helps soak up the delicious creamy sauce, elevating the entire meal experience.
• Match with Fresh Mediterranean Salad: A light salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese adds a bright, zesty element that contrasts the rich, creamy orzo and provides a fresh counterpoint.
• Serve with Chilled Citrus Spritzer: A homemade lemon-mint spritzer offers a tangy, cool accompaniment that cleanses the palate and enhances the seafood's natural sweetness.

Ways To Switch Up Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

• Vegan Sea Delight: Replace shrimp with plant-based alternatives like king oyster mushrooms or marinated tofu cubes, using smoked paprika for depth. Swap chicken stock with vegetable broth and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Low-Carb Mediterranean Bowl: Substitute orzo with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Keep the shrimp and seasonings, reducing cooking time for vegetable base. Add extra herbs like fresh basil and parsley for brightness.
• Gluten-Free Seafood Option: Use gluten-free orzo or quinoa as a base. Ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free. Select wild-caught shrimp and verify stock ingredients meet dietary restrictions.
• Protein Power Adaptation: Enhance protein content by adding white beans or chickpeas alongside shrimp. Include nutritional yeast for additional protein and cheesy flavor. Keep original spice profile and cooking method intact.

Common Questions About Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning. Make sure to remove excess moisture to help achieve a nice golden sear.

• Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently. The paprika adds mild warmth and depth, but you can adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding red pepper flakes or reducing the amount of spices.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Greek yogurt or half-and-half work well. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Each substitution will slightly change the sauce’s texture and flavor.

• Do I need any special cooking skills to make this orzo?

No, this recipe is beginner-friendly. The one-pan method makes it simple, and the steps are straightforward. Anyone comfortable with basic stovetop cooking can successfully prepare this dish.

Effortless Shrimp Orzo Recipe: A 30-Minute, One-Pan Wonder

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean magic unfolds with Shrimp Orzo, a quick and elegant dish blending succulent seafood and pasta perfection. Zesty herbs, garlic, and juicy shrimp create a simple yet sophisticated meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count per pound)
• 4 ounces (113 grams) fresh spinach
• 14 ounces (397 grams) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (about 1 cup)

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Prepare the aromatic seafood by combining shrimp with zesty spices, ensuring each morsel is evenly coated with paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
2. Create a sizzling base in a large skillet, drizzling olive oil and bringing the surface to a medium-high temperature.
3. Introduce plump shrimp and minced garlic to the hot pan, quickly searing for approximately two minutes on each side until they transform into a delicate pink with golden edges.
4. Gently transfer the perfectly cooked shrimp to a separate plate, reserving them for later incorporation.
5. Utilize the same skillet to toast sun-dried tomatoes and uncooked orzo, adding an additional splash of olive oil to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
6. Carefully pour chicken stock into the skillet, allowing the mixture to reach a robust boil before reducing to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir occasionally while the orzo absorbs the liquid, cooking until it becomes tender and reaches an al dente consistency.
8. Fold vibrant spinach and briny artichokes into the orzo, then introduce rich heavy cream to create a luxurious, velvety texture.
9. Reunite the previously seared shrimp with the creamy orzo mixture, letting everything meld together with a brief, gentle simmer.
10. Conduct a final seasoning assessment, sprinkling additional salt, pepper, and a whisper of smoked paprika to elevate the dish’s complexity.
11. Serve immediately, presenting a harmonious blend of oceanic and Mediterranean flavors.

Notes

• Experiment with different proteins like chicken or tofu to create versatile meal options for various dietary preferences.
• Toast orzo carefully to enhance nutty flavor without burning, watching skillet closely during browning process.
• Use low-sodium chicken stock to control salt levels and customize seasoning according to personal taste.
• Consider dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg