If you’re craving a meal that feels fancy but comes together without any fuss, the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp swimming in a creamy, garlicky orzo base that’s infused with the warmth of thyme and a hint of red pepper flakes, all cooked seamlessly in one skillet. This dish combines vibrant flavors and comforting textures into a single pan, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to impress without overcomplicating things.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor while keeping the recipe delightfully simple. Each element, from the aromatic garlic to the rich heavy cream, plays a crucial role in creating that luscious, satisfying final dish that looks and tastes like it took hours but goes on your table in under 20 minutes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This provides a fragrant base for cooking the shrimp and garlic, adding richness and depth.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and quick-cooking, delivering that fresh seafood flavor you’ll love.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory aroma that wakes up the dish instantly.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: The small rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the flavorful broth beautifully.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with savory goodness while keeping it moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its silky, creamy texture that makes this recipe feel indulgent.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings earthy, herbaceous notes that balance the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the individual flavors.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: A pop of color and bright herbal freshness to finish the dish with flair.
How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook them just enough so they turn a beautiful pink and get that slightly crisp edge, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remember, shrimp cook fast, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once perfectly done, take them out and set aside — they’ll make a grand return later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in your minced garlic for just about 30 seconds. The goal here is to release that incredible garlicky fragrance without burning it — this is the fragrant heart of your dish that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering smells.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
Next, pour in the orzo pasta and chicken broth right into the skillet. Bring everything to a simmer. This part is where the magic happens — as the orzo cooks over 8 to 10 minutes, it absorbs all those savory liquids, softens to the perfect al dente, and starts forming a creamy base for the shrimp. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Once the orzo is tender and the broth mostly absorbed, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and if you’re using, red pepper flakes for that touch of warmth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This step transforms the mixture into a velvety sauce that clings to the pasta and shrimp beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Finish
Return your shrimp to the skillet, folding them gently into the creamy orzo. Let them warm back up for a minute or two, so every bite is bursting with flavor and tender texture. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Serve One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic and simple choice, but feel free to jazz things up with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added layer of zing or umami. These garnishes can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making each serving feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a one-pot wonder, but if you want to round it out, consider a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. The bright, fresh crunch pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of the shrimp and orzo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve it in shallow bowls with extra parsley sprinkled on top. Drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of garlic butter for a luxurious touch. You can also portion the dish into small ramekins for individual servings, making it feel extra thoughtful and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can become rubbery if over-stored, it’s best to enjoy leftovers within this short window for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing
Because of the creamy sauce and delicate shrimp, this dish doesn’t freeze exceptionally well. The shrimp texture can change and the cream sauce might separate. If you do freeze leftovers, reheat gently and stir well, but fresh is definitely best for this recipe.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, use a low heat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce. Stir gently to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough, and heat just until warmed through. This careful reheating helps maintain that silky, comforting texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the skillet. This keeps the shrimp searing nicely instead of steaming.
Is there a substitute for orzo in this dish?
Yes, you can try other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even small couscous. Keep in mind, cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta you choose.
What can I do to make this dish vegetarian?
Skip the shrimp and use sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts instead, and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You’ll get a delicious, creamy orzo base with those earthy flavors in place.
Can I add vegetables directly to the recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas would be great additions. Add them in toward the end of cooking so they remain vibrant and fresh without overcooking.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat to contrast the creamy sauce. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small pinch or leave them out altogether — the dish is fantastic either way.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about whipping up the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe: it’s quick, flavorful, and feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging in a cozy meal for one, this dish promises to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
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One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo is a creamy, flavorful skillet dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a savory garlic-infused orzo pasta with a hint of thyme and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines simplicity with elegance in one pot.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, to build depth in flavor.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
- Combine Shrimp and Garnish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine and heat through. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Be sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use gluten-free orzo or pasta alternatives to make this recipe gluten-free.
