This Creamy Shrimp and Orzo Skillet is the perfect weeknight meal that delivers both simplicity and rich flavors. Shrimp, with its delicate sweetness, pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and tender orzo pasta. The addition of cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon brings a bright freshness to the dish. The meal is a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates, leaving you satisfied but not weighed down. This recipe is a one-pan dish, making cleanup easy, and the result is restaurant-quality comfort food in just 25 minutes. Serve this with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1:
Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Boil a pot of salted water, add the orzo, and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 3:
Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery if cooked too long.
Step 4:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The tomatoes should soften slightly, releasing their juices into the skillet, which will help build the base of your sauce.
Step 5:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked orzo pasta, Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice. Let the dish cook for another 2-3 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly and coat the orzo and shrimp evenly.
Step 6:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Note:
For the best results, ensure the shrimp are not overcooked. Shrimp cook quickly, and once they turn pink and curl slightly, they are ready. If the sauce is too thick after adding the orzo, you can loosen it with an additional splash of chicken broth or cream, depending on your preference for creaminess.
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a mild spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Shrimp and Orzo Skillet pairs excellently with a side of crispy garlic bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette. If you’re entertaining, you can add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a well-rounded, colorful plate.
Tips:
- You can swap the shrimp for another protein like scallops or chunks of chicken breast if you’re looking for variety.
- If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using half-and-half or a lower-fat cream option instead of heavy cream.
- For added flavor, you could also sauté the shrimp in a little butter along with the olive oil.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, just reduce the cooking time when adding them to the skillet to avoid overcooking.
- For a more decadent version, sprinkle a bit of mozzarella cheese on top and place the skillet under a broiler for a minute to create a golden, bubbly finish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQs:
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to fully thaw them before cooking by running them under cold water or letting them thaw in the fridge overnight. Be sure to pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding them to the skillet.
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice for a similar texture.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
How long can I store leftovers?
This dish will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta alternative instead of orzo.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Shrimp and Orzo Skillet is a versatile and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With a rich creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and tender orzo pasta, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Best of all, it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Add your favorite sides, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy this delicious meal to the fullest!
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Creamy Shrimp and Orzo Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1:
Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Boil a pot of salted water, add the orzo, and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 3:
Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery if cooked too long.
Step 4:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The tomatoes should soften slightly, releasing their juices into the skillet, which will help build the base of your sauce.
Step 5:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked orzo pasta, Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice. Let the dish cook for another 2-3 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly and coat the orzo and shrimp evenly.
Step 6:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Cooking Note:
For the best results, ensure the shrimp are not overcooked. Shrimp cook quickly, and once they turn pink and curl slightly, they are ready. If the sauce is too thick after adding the orzo, you can loosen it with an additional splash of chicken broth or cream, depending on your preference for creaminess.
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a mild spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 620mg
- Protein: 24g