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
Scale
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.
