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There’s something magical about a dish that brings together tender, juicy shrimp with the creamy, rich texture of orzo pasta — all cooked in a single pot. One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is exactly that kind of magic. It’s savory, a little bit spicy, and layered with vibrant Mediterranean flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Every forkful promises a luscious, buttery bite that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Perfect for a cozy dinner night, this recipe not only wows with flavor but also with its minimal cleanup. The shrimp cook perfectly in the creamy sauce while the orzo soaks up every delicious bit of flavor, making it a meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you’re trying to win hearts or just satisfy a serious craving, this dish has you covered.

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Ingredients for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth (or seafood broth for extra flavor)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

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Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté the shrimp for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove them from the pan and set aside — they’ll finish cooking later in the sauce.

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Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan to maximize flavor.

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Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the dry orzo pasta to the pan and stir to coat it in the buttery, garlicky goodness. Toast the orzo for 1–2 minutes until it becomes slightly golden and nutty-smelling — this deepens the flavor of the pasta.

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Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the orzo cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it’s tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

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Step 5: Make it Creamy

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and a pinch more paprika if you like it smokier. Let it simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes until creamy.

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Step 6: Finish with Shrimp and Garnish

Return the cooked shrimp (and any juices they released) back into the pan. Stir them into the creamy orzo and heat through for about 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving; based on 4 servings total)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 210mg
• Sodium: 960mg

Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat level up or down based on your taste.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw them fully under cold running water before cooking. Pat dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different flavor and lighter texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap out the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based cream and Parmesan substitute.

Is it possible to use rice instead of orzo?

Technically yes, but you’d need to adjust the liquid ratio and cook time significantly, as rice absorbs differently than pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers would be delicious stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.

What’s the best way to prevent overcooked shrimp?

Cook the shrimp only until pink and opaque, and remove them from the pan early. They’ll finish perfectly when mixed back in at the end.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, just use a larger pan and keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks, adding a little extra broth if needed to ensure it stays creamy.

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