One Pot “Marry Me” Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with creamy orzo pasta in a rich sun-dried tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or any time you want to impress someone with minimal effort. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering experience.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot, minimizing the mess in the kitchen.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out shrimp for chicken or turkey if desired; the recipe adapts beautifully.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from spinach, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having them on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pot: A spacious pan allows for even cooking of the shrimp and pasta while providing enough room to combine all ingredients seamlessly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping you mix ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:

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)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 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: Sauté the Shrimp

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

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Add butter to the pan and let it melt.
2. Once melted, sauté garlic and crushed red pepper for about two minutes over medium heat.
3. 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 the pan.
4. Bring to a simmer then reduce heat to low; cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until orzo is tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Enjoy your delicious One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta!

How to Serve One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Serving One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Combine arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and croutons complements the richness of the pasta.

Consider Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add melted cheese on top of the classic version for an indulgent twist.

Add a Light Dessert

• Fruit Sorbet: A chilled fruit sorbet provides a sweet yet light finish to your meal.
• Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse can satisfy your sweet tooth without being overly heavy.

How to Perfect One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

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

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your shrimp well before cooking. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Proper Cook Time: Make sure to sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooking can lead to rubbery textures.
• Consistent Stirring: Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking. This promotes even cooking and helps incorporate flavors.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best taste. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add more heavy cream or broth throughout cooking until you reach your desired consistency.
• Garnish Generously: Finish your dish with plenty of parsley or basil for added freshness and visual appeal.

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

Enhancing your meal with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant green touch and pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables drizzled in olive oil creates a colorful side that’s full of flavor.
3. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing is a nutritious complement.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the creamy pasta dish nicely.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes on skewers provide a refreshing bite alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can impact your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from heat.
• Ignoring the broth quality: Using low-quality chicken broth may affect the overall taste. Opt for a low-sodium broth with good flavor.
• Not stirring the orzo: Stirring occasionally helps prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Make this a habit during cooking.
• Adding cream too early: If you add heavy cream too soon, it may curdle. Wait until the orzo is tender before mixing it in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag; it lasts up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring every minute until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta.

Can I use frozen shrimp for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How can I customize One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or turkey.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomato oil?

You can substitute olive oil instead. It will still provide great flavor to your dish.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for any dinner occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!