Marry Me Shrimp Orzo Pasta

This one pot Marry Me shrimp and orzo pasta has fast become my answer for busy nights and for impressing guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor The creamy sun dried tomato sauce paired with tender shrimp is pure comfort in a bowl and all the magic happens in just one skillet The kind of meal that wins everyone over even when made on a weeknight

When I first cooked this for my husband he actually paused between bites just to say this is restaurant quality Since then it is the dish we make when we want something special without a fuss

Ingredients

• Shrimp: peeled and deveined for tender texture look for shrimp that smells fresh not fishy and is labeled sustainably sourced if possible
• Sun dried tomato oil: for richness and a punch of savory flavor the oil from the jar really makes a difference in aroma
• Kosher salt: to bring out all the subtle flavors
• Freshly ground black pepper: for warmth and balance
• Smoked paprika: adds a subtle smoky layer use a high quality Spanish paprika if you can find it
• Butter: helps build a silky base for the sauce opt for European style for an extra creamy result
• Garlic: minced for depth and a little heat use fresh garlic cloves for the fullest flavor
• Crushed red chili pepper flakes: to kick up the spice level just a bit
• Low sodium chicken broth: brings the sauce together and keeps it from getting too salty make sure it is low sodium
• Heavy cream: adds the velvety rich texture in the sauce
• Orzo pasta: tender and quick cooking gives the dish a risotto like quality
• Italian seasoning: to add herbal brightness
• Sun dried tomatoes: for tang and pockets of concentrated flavor seek out soft plump ones from a jar
• Parmesan cheese: freshly grated brings creaminess and nutty highlights always use block Parmesan and grate it yourself
• Baby spinach: packed for a fresh finish bright and delicate
• Fresh parsley or basil: to garnish with a pop of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp:

Toss shrimp with sun dried tomato oil salt pepper and smoked paprika in a medium bowl Make sure every piece is glossy and coated This step infuses the shrimp with flavor that carries through the dish

Sear the Shrimp:

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium Cook the shrimp about two minutes on each side until they just turn pink and opaque Do not overcook or they will get rubbery Remove shrimp to a plate Pour off any extra liquid and quickly wipe the pan dry

Sauté the Aromatics:

Melt butter in the skillet over medium Add minced garlic and chili flakes Stir constantly for two minutes Garlic should be fragrant not brown This builds a savory aromatic base for the sauce

Simmer the Pasta and Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth heavy cream orzo Italian seasoning sun dried tomatoes salt and pepper Stir everything to combine Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer Lower the heat and cover Cook for about ten minutes stirring occasionally to prevent sticking Orzo should be tender and most liquid absorbed

Finish with Cheese and Greens:

Remove the lid Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated Add baby spinach and stir one to two minutes It will wilt into the hot orzo turning silky and green Taste for seasoning add a little salt or pepper if needed

Combine and Serve:

Gently fold cooked shrimp back into the pasta Let them warm through for about a minute Come serving time sprinkle with parsley or basil for a touch of brightness Spoon into shallow bowls and add extra Parmesan on top if you like

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Parmesan is always my favorite ingredient in this recipe The nutty flavor ties everything together and my kids always sneak extra shavings while I am stirring it in This meal has made its way into our family celebrations especially for weeknight birthdays or milestones

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days The sauce will thicken as it sits Add a splash of cream or chicken broth when reheating to loosen it back to its original creamy glory Microwave gently stirring halfway or reheat on the stove over low heat

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute olive oil for sun dried tomato oil but you will miss some of that unique savory punch Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version For a vegetarian meal swap shrimp with quick sautéed mushrooms or even canned chickpeas For dairy free try a little coconut cream and leave out the Parmesan

Serving Suggestions

This dish needs very little as a side A peppery arugula salad with lemon dressing is my favorite and toasted garlic bread is always a hit Paired with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon it feels restaurant worthy

Recipe Origins and Inspiration

Marry Me chicken is a famous social media recipe but this shrimp and orzo twist brings a coastal Italian vibe Orzo is the perfect canvas for creamy sauces and the sun dried tomatoes add a sunny Tuscan touch This is the kind of dish that fits anywhere from a winter dinner party to a summer night on the patio

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before seasoning to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for sun-dried tomato oil?

Olive oil works well if sun-dried tomato oil is not available, though you’ll miss a bit of the unique flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add a small amount of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

→ What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

Baby kale or arugula are good alternatives; they’ll also wilt quickly and blend into the pasta.

→ How should I reheat leftovers?

Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

→ Is it possible to use a different pasta shape?

Small shapes like ditalini or small shells can substitute for orzo; cooking time may vary slightly.