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Creamy Shrimp Orzo

A rich, comforting 30-minute one-pan orzo dinner with tender shrimp, garlic, Parmesan, and a velvety cream sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 510
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shrimp
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • salt and pepper to taste
Orzo
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2.25 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 lemon zest from 1 lemon
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Season shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil for 1–2 minutes per side, then remove from pan.
  2. Add butter to skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in broth, cover, and cook 8–10 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed.
  5. Add cream and Parmesan, stirring until creamy.
  6. Stir in spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  7. Return shrimp to pan and warm through.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine after sautéing garlic.