One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Orzo

Creamy shrimp and sundried tomato orzo is sheer comfort in a bowl ready in half an hour without using a single extra pot. Everything comes together in one vessel for a velvety pasta loaded with briny shrimp jammy tomatoes and fresh greens. This is the dish I whip up when I want something that feels gourmet but fits a busy weeknight and it always gets raves around my table.

The first time I made this it was on a rainy weeknight when we wanted something cozy but had little energy for fussing over dinner. Now it is our regular favorite year round and has become the dish people request when they come over.

Ingredients

• Orzo pasta: provides a creamy risotto-like texture and cooks fast crucial for weeknight meals. Look for Italian orzo for best results.
• Shrimp: adds lean protein and sweet flavor. Select medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp to save time.
• Sundried tomatoes: bring a sweet tangy punch. Use oil-packed for deeper flavor and softness.
• Vegetable broth: creates depth in the one-pot sauce without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Cream: gives the orzo its signature velvety richness. Opt for heavy cream for the smoothest results or substitute half and half for a lighter version.
• Fresh spinach: wilts into the sauce lending nutrients and color. Choose tender baby spinach for the best texture.

Instructions

Bring Pasta and Tomatoes to a Simmer:

Place the orzo sundried tomatoes and vegetable broth in a large pot. Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling reduce the heat and let simmer for about ten minutes stirring every couple of minutes. The orzo should be almost but not completely tender at this stage and the mixture will look saucy not dry.

Add Shrimp Cream and Greens:

When the orzo is nearly cooked stir in the shrimp cream and fresh spinach all at once. Give it a good stir then let it cook uncovered for five to eight minutes. Watch for the shrimp to turn pink and firm and for the spinach to wilt into the sauce. Stir often so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Finish and Serve:

Taste the dish for seasoning then spoon the creamy shrimp orzo into bowls while hot. The sauce will thicken slightly as it rests making it even silkier.

My favorite part of this dish is always the bite of sundried tomato with creamy orzo and plump shrimp. I remember making this for my parents when they visited from out of town and both went back for seconds and packed it for the train ride home.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The orzo will absorb more sauce as it sits so stir in an extra splash of broth or cream when reheating. To keep shrimp tender reheat gently over low heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

No spinach on hand Use baby kale or arugula for more bite. For a dairy free version swap the cream with full fat coconut milk though the flavor changes a bit. Short pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells also work if orzo is not available.

Serving Suggestions

Scatter torn basil leaves or grated parmesan over bowls for extra flavor. I like to add crunchy toasted bread for a cozy meal. For a bigger spread serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette.

Cultural Context

Orzo sometimes called risoni is a tiny pasta beloved in Italian kitchens for hearty soups and creamy pilaf-style dishes. This recipe borrows inspiration from coastal Italian cooking where seafood pasta with a hint of cream is a classic comfort. The sundried tomatoes echo southern Italian pantry traditions.

Seasonal Adaptations

Baby kale makes a bright winter swap for spinach. Fresh cherry tomatoes can replace sundried in the summer months. Peas or asparagus tossed in last minute give a spring twist.

Success Stories

A friend made this for her anniversary dinner at home and said it tasted like a restaurant meal. My neighbor asked for the recipe after her picky tween ate two helpings and called it the best pasta ever. It is one of those dishes that looks and tastes special but is secretly so simple to make.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze let the dish cool completely then spoon into airtight containers. Defrost overnight in the fridge then reheat gently with a splash of broth. For best texture freeze without the spinach and add fresh greens when reheating.

This recipe comes together quickly without sacrificing comfort or flavor. Enjoy creamy shrimp orzo as an elegant dinner made easy any night of the week.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute another pasta for orzo?

Yes, small shapes like ditalini or risoni work well. Adjust liquid and cooking time as needed.

→ How do I prevent overcooking shrimp?

Add shrimp when orzo is nearly done and cook just until they turn pink for tender results.

→ Can the dish be made dairy-free?

You can replace cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

→ What vegetables can I use instead of spinach?

Basil, arugula, or chopped kale are flavorful alternatives if you prefer different greens.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before adding to ensure even cooking and best texture.