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Creamy Shrimp Orzo

A rich and cozy one-pot pasta made with tender orzo, juicy shrimp, garlic cream sauce, parmesan, and lemon.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Mediterranean
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan grated
  • 1 cup spinach optional
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 lemon zest and juice
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter and cook shrimp until pink.
  3. Remove shrimp and sauté garlic.
  4. Add orzo and toss to lightly toast.
  5. Pour in broth and cream, stirring to combine.
  6. Add Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes.
  7. Simmer until orzo is tender, stirring often.
  8. Stir in parmesan until creamy.
  9. Add spinach to wilt.
  10. Return shrimp and add lemon zest and juice.
  11. Simmer 1–2 minutes and serve.

Notes

Add extra broth if orzo thickens too quickly; adjust lemon to taste.