Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo: Quick & Comforting One-Pot Wonder

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo is a quick one-pot meal that combines tender shrimp with creamy orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian, Seafood

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Orzo Base

1 cup orzo cooks quickly in 8-10 minutes
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth opt for low-sodium for better control over salt

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp can substitute with scallops or chicken

For the Creamy Sauce

½ cup heavy cream for a lighter option, use half-and-half carefully to avoid curdling
½ cup Parmesan cheese grated

A Touch of Freshness

1 tablespoon lemon zest a burst of brightness
2 cups spinach any leafy green, such as kale, can be used as a substitute
3 cloves garlic fresh is key for depth of flavor

Equipment

large pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque and pink. Remove and set aside.
Lower the heat to medium, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add 1 cup of orzo and 4 cups of broth to the pot. Stir and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until orzo is al dente.
Mix in fresh spinach for a minute, then return the shrimp, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese to the pot. Fold gently.
Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing to maintain texture.

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