Name: One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)

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If you’re craving something creamy, savory, and absolutely irresistible, the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is sure to sweep you off your feet. Picture juicy shrimp, velvety orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich Parmesan all simmered together in a single pan — it’s a dinner so delicious, everyone at the table might just propose! Whether you’re impressing guests, wooing your significant other, or just indulging in your own comfort food fantasy, this dreamy pasta will make you fall in love bite after bite.

One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta so wonderful is how each ingredient shines while harmonizing within the creamy, flavorful sauce. Every item in this recipe brings a special spark, so don’t skip or substitute unless you truly must — together, they create dinnertime magic!

Shrimp (1 lb, large, peeled and deveined): The star of the show, lending delicate sweetness and juicy texture to every forkful.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For searing the shrimp and infusing the base with subtle richness.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds creaminess and depth, creating an inviting backdrop for the sauce.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers big-time aroma and that signature Italian-inspired bite.
Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For just a touch of heat to balance the creamy sauce—adjust to taste!
Orzo pasta (1 cup, uncooked): This rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the flavors and forms the heart of the dish.
Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup, chopped): Sweet, tangy bursts that give the sauce both color and an extra layer of flavor.
Chicken broth (2 cups): The liquid gold that cooks the orzo and binds everything together for a savory finish.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Helps create that decadent, silky sauce you’ll want to mop up with bread.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Melty, nutty, and perfectly salty—don’t be shy here!
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs to evoke classic Mediterranean flavors.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the shrimp and sauce to perfection.
Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped, plus more for garnish): Bright, herbaceous, and the perfect finish for summer vibes.

How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

First up: Pat your shrimp dry and dust them generously with salt and black pepper. Grab your largest, deepest skillet or sauté pan — wider is better, since you want room to sear. Heat the olive oil until shimmering, then quickly sear the shrimp for just 1–2 minutes per side, flipping once when they’re beautifully pink and opaque. Don’t overcook; they’ll finish later! Set them aside for now, but they’ll make a grand return soon.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spice

Add butter to that same flavorful pan (don’t wipe out those gorgeous shrimp juices). Toss in the minced garlic and, if you’re up for a mild kick, sprinkle over the red pepper flakes. Let everything sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant — you want to smell that irresistible garlicky warmth all through your kitchen.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Pour the uncooked orzo straight into the garlicky butter and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring well to coat every grain. This simple step gives the final dish a subtle, earthy, nutty note, and really brings out the unique character of orzo. Afterward, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and tang.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour the chicken broth over everything, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom (that’s pure flavor right there). Bring the mixture to a steady boil, then immediately lower the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender yet still has some bite, and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Creamy, Cheesy Magic

Now for the moment that turns this into true One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta bliss! Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust with a pinch more salt and black pepper. Your sauce will go creamy and luscious in seconds—you won’t believe how dreamy it smells.

Step 6: Return Shrimp and Finish with Basil

Finally, tuck the reserved shrimp back into the pan, nestling them among the orzo. Let them heat through for 2–3 more minutes, so they’re piping hot and juicy. Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil for a burst of green and garden-fresh flavor. You did it! Enjoy immediately, garnished with even more basil and extra Parmesan if you like.

How to Serve One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Garnishes

Nothing says “dinner is ready!” like a final shower of chopped fresh basil on top, maybe with a few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese for the most mouthwatering finish. If you want to dazzle, a squeeze of lemon over each bowl adds zesty brightness that wakes up every flavor. A light drizzle of good olive oil is also a lovely touch.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and filling, so I recommend keeping sides simple and fresh. A crisp mixed greens salad with a zippy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, while warm crusty bread is practically a requirement for swiping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted asparagus or blistered green beans also make beautiful accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta for company, dish it into shallow bowls and top each portion with an artfully arranged shrimp and a sprinkle of basil. For weeknights, simply ladle it family-style from the pan in the center of the table — it’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly. You can also spoon it into ramekins for a tapas-style dinner, especially when paired with other small plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container as soon as the dish cools to room temperature. The flavors only deepen overnight, making for an even more mouthwatering lunch or easy dinner the next day. Aim to eat leftovers within 2 days for optimal shrimp tenderness and flavor.

Freezing

While creamy pasta dishes like this one aren’t typically recommended for freezing, you can freeze it in a pinch. If you do, cool the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one month. Just note that the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing but will usually come back together with gentle stirring.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. For a faster option, microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring gently between each until steaming hot. Try to avoid overheating to keep the shrimp plump and the orzo tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat dry the shrimp before cooking. This helps guarantee a good sear and the best texture, every single time.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, or even use whole milk for a slightly less creamy but still delicious result. Reducing the Parmesan or stirring in loads of fresh spinach is another great way to add a nutritious twist.

Can I substitute the orzo for another pasta?

While orzo gives the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta its signature look and creamy texture, you could try small pastas like ditalini, small shells, or even pearl couscous. Adjust the liquid and timing as needed since cook times will vary.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly—just 1 to 2 minutes per side. They’re ready when pink and opaque with a light “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly and turn rubbery, so keep a close eye on them for best results.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

No worries! You can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes (halved) or toss in some chopped spinach for a bit of color and nutrients. Both are delicious, but sun-dried tomatoes really do add a punch of flavor if you can find them.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a one-pan dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to win hearts, I can’t recommend the One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta enough. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll crave often and love sharing with family or friends. Give it a try tonight — you might find yourself falling head over heels with every spoonful!

One-Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and easy-to-make one-pot dish featuring succulent shrimp, creamy orzo pasta, and a flavorful blend of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

Season Shrimp: Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
Sear Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear shrimp until just pink and opaque. Set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes, then add orzo and toast. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and simmer until orzo is tender.
Finish Dish: Stir in cream, Parmesan, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp back to the pan and cook until heated through. Mix in basil.
Serve: Garnish with basil and Parmesan. Serve hot.