Description
This creamy shrimp orzo is a 30-minute, one-pan meal featuring garlic-seared shrimp, tender orzo pasta, and Mediterranean-inspired vegetables in a rich, comforting sauce—perfect for busy weeknights or elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 14 oz artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and minced garlic; cook for about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes, uncooked orzo, and a splash of olive oil. Toast for 2 minutes over medium heat.
- Pour in chicken stock and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in spinach, artichoke hearts, and heavy cream. Cook over low-medium heat until spinach wilts and sauce thickens slightly.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and simmer for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional paprika if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or coconut milk for dairy-free.
- Stir occasionally while orzo cooks to prevent sticking.
- Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
- Top with Parmesan or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Not recommended for freezing due to cream-based sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
