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One Pan Shrimp Orzo

This creamy one pan shrimp orzo is an easy skillet dinner made with tender shrimp, garlic, parmesan, and fresh spinach. The orzo cooks directly in broth for rich flavor and a creamy texture, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Method
 

  1. Cook shrimp in olive oil with salt, pepper, and paprika until pink. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook onion in the same pan until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly.
  3. Add orzo and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and simmer until orzo is tender and creamy.
  5. Stir in cream, parmesan, and lemon juice until smooth.
  6. Add shrimp and spinach, stirring until spinach wilts and shrimp is warm.
  7. Let rest briefly, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Pat the shrimp dry before cooking so they sear better and do not release too much liquid into the pan.
  • Stir the orzo often while simmering to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
  • If the orzo absorbs liquid too quickly before becoming tender, add a splash of warm broth as needed.
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts smoother and gives the sauce a creamier texture.
  • For extra lemon flavor, add a little lemon zest before serving.
  • This dish thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating leftovers.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat to keep the shrimp tender.
  • Baby spinach works best because it wilts quickly into the hot pasta.
  • Medium or large shrimp both work well in this recipe.