Creamy Shrimp Orzo
A quick and delicious creamy shrimp orzo recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights, featuring shrimp, orzo, and a rich cream sauce.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth use low sodium if preferred
- 1 cup heavy cream can use half-and-half for a lighter option
For the Extras
- 1 cup spinach, chopped fresh or frozen
- 1 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 1 2 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated works best
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until pink, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the orzo and broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined, creating a creamy sauce.
- Return the shrimp to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine everything thoroughly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through, ensuring the sauce coats the shrimp and orzo beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque. You can substitute proteins or add veggies like peas or bell peppers. Store leftover creamy shrimp orzo for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and consider freezing if necessary.