Creamy Shrimp Orzo: Your New Favorite One-Skillet Comfort Dish

This Creamy Shrimp Orzo is a quick, one-skillet meal that transforms dinner into a luxurious experience with tender shrimp and a creamy Parmesan sauce.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 cup Orzo Base pasta that provides a tender and hearty foundation for the dish; substitute with small pasta like acini di pepe or ditalini.

For the Protein

1 pound Shrimp Main protein that offers pleasant texture and flavor; peeled and deveined fresh or frozen shrimp both work well.

For the Richness

1 tablespoon Butter Enhances richness and flavor; can replace with additional olive oil for a lighter option.
1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds depth and balances the richness in this creamy shrimp orzo dish.

For the Aromatics

1 medium Onion Aromatic base that adds sweetness and flavor; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
2 cloves Garlic Adds a savory aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is recommended—adjust quantity to preference.

For the Sauce

4 cups Chicken Broth Flavor base that provides moisture and taste; can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
1 cup Heavy Cream Makes the sauce rich and creamy; can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter or dairy-free options.
1 cup Parmesan Cheese Flavor enhancer and thickener; freshly grated provides the best taste—nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan alternative.

For the Finish

1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Adds brightness and freshness; can be substituted with basil or chives for a colorful garnish.

Equipment

large skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Shrimp Orzo

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the butter to froth slightly.
Add 1 finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is translucent and fragrant. Then, toss in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional minute.
Stir in 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta and gently toast it for about 2 minutes, letting it soak up the flavors while turning slightly golden.
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream plus 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
Fold in 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
Season the Creamy Shrimp Orzo with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

To keep your sauce smooth, maintain a low simmer when adding cream and cheese and stir constantly to avoid curdling.

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