Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal)

Shrimp Orzo: A Delicious 30-Minute, One-Pan Meal

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner option? This Shrimp Orzo is the perfect one-pan meal that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. Packed with flavors from succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and fresh spinach, all simmered in a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Not only is it quick and easy, but it also offers a wonderful balance of protein, vegetables, and rich, comforting orzo.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb raw shrimp, large, peeled, and deveined (16 or 20 count per pound)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo and Sauce:

• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup orzo, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 14 oz artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (1 can or about 1 cup)
• 4 oz fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Sear the Shrimp:
Begin by seasoning the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning mix gives the shrimp a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the shrimp and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to ensure the shrimp sear properly rather than steam. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, uncooked orzo, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the orzo over medium heat, stirring for about 2 minutes until it becomes lightly browned. This step adds a toasty, nutty flavor to the orzo.

Next, add 2 cups of chicken stock and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer (medium-low) and cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures it cooks evenly. Once the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, it’s time to add the vegetables.

3. Add Vegetables and Cream:
Add the chopped artichoke hearts, fresh spinach, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir everything together on low-medium heat until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy and well combined. The combination of creamy orzo, spinach, and artichokes creates a rich and satisfying base for the shrimp.

4. Combine and Serve:
Finally, add the seared shrimp back into the skillet with the orzo and cream sauce. Simmer everything together for about 2 minutes, or until the shrimp is warmed through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired.

Serve this delicious Shrimp Orzo straight from the skillet for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Quick Facts:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus for extra color and nutrition.
• Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal prep option.

Final Thoughts:

This Shrimp Orzo is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, all made in just one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp. Try it out, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!

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