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Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: A Dish to Impress Anyone

This Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is an invitation to experience love at first bite, perfect for quick, busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Shrimp Thawed, drained, and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons Sun-Dried Tomato Oil Can substitute with olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if needed
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced finely
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Chili Pepper Flake Adjust based on spice preference
  • 2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Can substitute with vegetable broth
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can replace with half-and-half
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Check package instructions for cooking time
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be used
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Drained and julienned
Finishing Touches
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Fresh grated works best
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Can substitute with other greens like kale
  • 1/4 cup Minced Fresh Parsley or Sliced Basil Leaves For garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting dry the thawed shrimp to ensure a good sear. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with sun-dried tomato oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture marinate for about 10 minutes while you heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add butter. Once it melts, introduce the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add low sodium chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, Italian seasoning, and the remaining kosher salt and black pepper to the pan. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking. The orzo should be tender and absorb most of the liquid.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Gently fold the sautéed shrimp back into the skillet, combining all ingredients, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with freshly minced parsley or sliced basil leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 34gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Pat dry shrimp to avoid steaming, stir frequently to achieve creaminess, taste and adjust seasoning as you go, and ensure spinach is added last for bright color and nutrients.

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