This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender orzo in a rich, sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s a perfect meal for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply when you want a delicious and easy-to-make dish in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Convenience: Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible sauce.
Protein-Packed: Shrimp adds a lean and flavorful protein source.
Versatile: Can be customized with different vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Orzo pasta
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Onion, diced
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Crushed red pepper flakes
Italian seasoning
Fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add Orzo and Liquid: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, orzo pasta, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens.
Return Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back into the pot and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add More Vegetables: Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Switch the Protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken, salmon, or scallops.
Make it Spicier: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Use a Different Pasta: Swap orzo for penne, fettuccine, or any short pasta you prefer.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freeze: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent a rubbery texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little butter can work as substitutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance for a quicker cook time.

What other pasta works well in this recipe?

Small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni can be used instead of orzo.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative and a vegan Parmesan substitute.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the crushed red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Yes, deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine before adding broth adds extra depth of flavor.

What side dishes go well with this?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables complement this dish well.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated, slightly tangy flavor that enhances the dish.

Conclusion

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a simple yet impressive dish packed with creamy, savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, this easy one-pot recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!