Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: A Love Affair on a Plate

If you’re looking for a dish that combines creamy indulgence, savory depth, and a touch of elegance, then this One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is your ultimate go-to recipe. It’s not just food—it’s an experience. Whether you’re trying to impress a date, whip up a comforting family dinner, or simply treat yourself to a flavorful meal, this dish has all the elements to make you fall in love at first bite.

I’m calling this “Marry Me” shrimp and orzo for a reason. With perfectly cooked shrimp, a creamy, garlicky sauce, and tender orzo that soaks up all the delicious flavors, this meal is irresistible. Plus, it’s all done in one pot—no pile of dishes waiting for you afterward. Yes, you can have a gourmet-level meal without the stress.

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me tell you why this recipe is special to me. The first time I made it, I was experimenting with what I had in my pantry. The results? Pure magic. The sun-dried tomatoes brought a rich, tangy depth, while the creamy orzo acted like a perfect canvas for the shrimp to shine. It became a quick favorite in my household, and now I’m excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

1. One-Pot Wonder
Fewer dishes, less cleanup, and a streamlined cooking process—what’s not to love? This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something that feels special.

2. Packed with Flavor
Every bite is layered with deliciousness. The smoky paprika, creamy Parmesan, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes combine to create a harmony of flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing.

3. Shrimp Done Right
Shrimp can sometimes feel tricky to cook, but not here! Tossed in sun-dried tomato oil and spices, it’s perfectly tender and juicy.

4. Creamy, Comforting Orzo
Orzo is the ultimate comfort food—it’s pasta that thinks it’s rice, absorbing all the rich, savory broth and cream.

5. Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is a hit with adults and kids alike. Whether served at a casual dinner or a special occasion, everyone will be asking for seconds.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 hearty portions
• Calories per serving: Approx. 400

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Let’s break down the ingredients and why they’re essential to this recipe:

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (thawed, drained, and patted dry): Shrimp is the star protein in this dish. Its delicate, sweet flavor complements the creamy, savory sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil: Don’t throw away that flavorful oil in the jar! It’s packed with rich, tangy goodness.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the shrimp’s flavor.

The Orzo and Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter: For richness and a silky base.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes: Adds just a hint of heat—adjust to your preference!
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The base for cooking the orzo, infused with flavor as it simmers.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, creamy consistency.
• 8 oz orzo (about 2 cups): The perfect pasta choice for soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and julienned): Adds tanginess and depth.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty cheese that melts beautifully into the sauce.
• 2 cups baby spinach: For a fresh, vibrant touch.

For Garnish

• Minced parsley or sliced basil leaves: Adds color and a fresh pop of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prep the Shrimp

• Start by tossing your shrimp with the sun-dried tomato oil, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. This not only seasons the shrimp but also gives it a luxurious coating that enhances its flavor.
• Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook!
• Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside. If there’s any excess liquid, drain it, and wipe the pan clean.

2: Build the Flavor Base

• In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 2 minutes, letting the garlic release its aroma.

3: Cook the Orzo

• Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, Italian seasoning, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4: Finish the Dish

• Once the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. The spinach will wilt down quickly, adding a beautiful pop of green to the dish.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

5: Add the Shrimp

• Return the shrimp to the pan, nestling them into the creamy orzo. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant, herbaceous finish. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

Serving Suggestions

This Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round it out:

• With Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Salad: A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• For Kids: Serve with buttered garlic toast or soft dinner rolls.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—keep an eye on it to ensure it stays tender.
2. Use High-Quality Parmesan: The better the cheese, the better the flavor of the dish.
3. Toast the Orzo: For an added layer of nutty flavor, toast the orzo in butter before adding the liquid.
4. Stir Occasionally: This keeps the orzo from sticking to the pan as it cooks.
5. Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your spice preference.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the shrimp for mushrooms or chickpeas.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or a short-grain rice alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in peas, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the orzo might lose some texture, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the shrimp and cook the orzo separately, then combine when ready to serve.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same intense flavor, but cherry tomatoes can be a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and love—all in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, your family, or yourself, this dish will leave everyone smitten.

I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Snap a picture, share your masterpiece on Instagram, and tag me. Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!