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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo One Pot Dinner

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo is an easy one pot seafood dinner made with tender shrimp, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon, and creamy orzo pasta.
This risotto-style recipe is rich, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ready in about 40 minutes with simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American-Inspired Seafood

Ingredients
  

The Protein

  • 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika

The Pasta & Flavor Base

  • 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 shallot finely diced

The Liquid & Cream

  • ½ cup non-alcoholic white cooking broth substitute or extra chicken broth + 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 3 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach optional
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or basil
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and paprika. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  • Transfer shrimp to a clean plate immediately.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

  • Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pan.
  • Add diced shallot and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in garlic and uncooked orzo. Toast the orzo for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

  • Pour in the broth substitute mixture to deglaze the pan, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom.
  • Add warm chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo becomes tender and creamy.
  • Add a splash of broth or water if needed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

  • Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach.
  • Mix gently until spinach wilts and the sauce becomes silky.
  • Add lemon juice and zest. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

  • Return shrimp and juices to the skillet.
  • Toss gently to warm through.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

  • Vegetable broth works well for a lighter flavor.
  • Add mushrooms for extra richness.
  • Serve with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
  • For extra lemon flavor, garnish with lemon wedges.