One Pot “Marry Me” Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Fresh and vibrant, this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp enveloped in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, combined with orzo and fresh spinach, it tantalizes the taste buds while simplifying your cooking process. This recipe is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family dinners or intimate gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot minimizes cleanup time—more time to enjoy your meal!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and spices creates a rich sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp and orzo.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, tailoring the dish to suit your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pot: A wide surface area allows for even cooking of shrimp and even distribution of flavors throughout the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching non-stick surfaces, ensuring your dish remains intact.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

Freshly sautéed juicy shrimp in a flavor-packed Tuscan-inspired sun-dried tomato cream sauce with orzo and spinach.

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (thawed, drained and patted dry)
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil (reserved from the jar)
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flake
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Pasta

• 8 oz orzo (about 2 cups of uncooked orzo pasta)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and julienned)

For Serving

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Minced Fresh Parsley or Sliced Basil Leaves (for garnish)

How to Make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Toss shrimp with sun-dried tomato oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté over medium heat just until shrimp have turned pink and are cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside to be added back in later. If the shrimp has released any water into the pan after cooking, drain and quickly wipe dry.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

Add butter to pan and let melt. Once melted, sauté garlic and crushed red pepper for about two minutes over medium heat. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to pan. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until orzo is tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once orzo is tender, stir in parmesan cheese and spinach. Adjust seasoning to taste as needed. Add shrimp back into the pan and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Serving One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is all about enhancing the dining experience. Whether you are hosting a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, these suggestions will elevate your dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Garlic Bread

• Offer garlic bread as a side to complement the savory flavors of the shrimp and orzo.

Roasted Vegetables

• Add roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment that balances the meal.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

To ensure your One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances flavor and texture compared to frozen varieties. Thaw thoroughly before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink for optimal tenderness. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for balanced flavor.
• Use Low Sodium Broth: Opt for low sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while still getting that rich flavor.
• Add Spinach Last: Stir in spinach at the end of cooking so it retains its bright color and nutrients.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with minced parsley or sliced basil for an aromatic touch that adds freshness.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Enhancing your meal with complementary side dishes can make all the difference. Here are some great options to serve alongside your pasta.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and garlic, roasted until crispy.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes add comfort and pair nicely with the creamy pasta.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb option that adds texture without overwhelming flavors.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta makes for a healthy side packed with protein.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that complements the savory shrimp dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. If you leave it in the pan too long, it can become tough. Cook just until pink and remove promptly.
• Ignoring the broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth is crucial for flavor control. If you use regular broth, the dish may end up too salty.
• Not measuring ingredients: Precise measurements matter in this recipe. Use measuring cups for orzo and cream to maintain balance in flavors.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste before serving! You might need to add more salt or pepper depending on your preference and ingredient variations.
• Neglecting garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil enhances presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this step for a restaurant-quality finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to leave some space in the container as the pasta may expand when frozen.

Reheating One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in increments of one minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking and stir occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes! Chicken, turkey, or even vegetables like zucchini can be great alternatives while keeping the recipe flavorful.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spice depends on how much crushed red chili pepper you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a rich texture without dairy.

What can I serve alongside One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish. They complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it earlier in the day and reheat it just before serving.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing the protein source. It’s perfect for any dinner occasion—easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Try it today!