I love a good one-pot meal, and this Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta has quickly become one of my favorites. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, there’s something special about the way shrimp pairs with a rich, garlicky, sun-dried tomato sauce.
The first time I made this dish, I was looking for a way to switch up my usual shrimp pasta recipes. I wanted something that felt indulgent but still light enough to enjoy any night of the week. I had heard of Marry Me Chicken, a dish so good that it supposedly makes people want to propose, and I thought—why not try it with shrimp?
After a little experimenting, I landed on this version: tender, juicy shrimp, creamy orzo pasta, and a bold, slightly tangy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dish but comes together in just 30 minutes.
| Servings | Total |
| 4 | 40mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I had made Marry Me Chicken before, but I wanted something different—something lighter but still rich in flavor. Since shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with creamy sauces, it felt like the perfect choice.
I started with a basic shrimp and pasta recipe, then added in the flavors of Marry Me Chicken—sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan. Cooking the orzo in the same pan allowed it to soak up all the flavors, creating a creamy, comforting dish with minimal effort.
Now, this dish has become one of my go-to meals, whether I’m cooking for my family or just want something special without a lot of work.
Why Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?
Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes create an irresistible combination.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special meal, this dish always impresses.
What Is Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Made Of?
This dish combines a handful of simple ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful pasta:
- Shrimp: Juicy, tender shrimp that cook quickly.
- Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavor beautifully.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a slightly tangy, sweet depth.
- Garlic and Onion: Creates a flavorful base.
- Chicken or Seafood Broth: Infuses the orzo with rich taste.
- Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce creamy without being too heavy.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A little heat to balance the creamy sauce.
- Spinach (Optional): Adds freshness and color.
What to Have with Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
This dish is filling on its own, but if you want to serve it with sides, here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers work well.
- Steamed Green Beans: Light and fresh to balance the richness.
Is Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Healthy?
This dish is a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. If you want to lighten it up, you can:
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Use whole wheat orzo for more fiber.
- Add more vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes.
Kitchen Equipment
You won’t need much for this recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven (for a true one-pot meal)
- Cutting board and knife (for prepping ingredients)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Orzo and Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the onions and cook for 2 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1 minute.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
- Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the flavors.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach (if using).
- Return the shrimp to the pan and stir gently.
- Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook fast—remove them as soon as they turn pink.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: It brightens up the dish beautifully.
- Let the Orzo Absorb the Flavors: Stir occasionally while cooking so it soaks up the broth.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
The sauce may thicken after freezing, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of broth.
Conclusion
One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make in just 30 minutes. With juicy shrimp, a rich sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo, it’s a meal that feels special without a lot of effort. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
MORE RECIPES
One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven (for a true one-pot meal)
- Cutting board and knife (for prepping ingredients)
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onions and cook for 2 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1 minute.
- Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the flavors.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach (if using).
- Return the shrimp to the pan and stir gently.
- Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.