If you're looking for an easy, restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just one pot, this One-Pot Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo is exactly what you need.
It's a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant Tuscan-inspired ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. Best of all, it takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup!
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
Bursting with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan create a deliciously rich sauce.
Protein-Packed: Shrimp provides a lean source of protein.
Comforting Yet Healthy: A creamy, satisfying dish with nutrient-rich spinach and whole ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Orzo and Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
Add the orzo to the pan and toast for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Pour in the broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan.
Add the spinach and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and mix everything together.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, Tuscan-inspired shrimp and orzo dish!
Expert Tips for the Best One-Pot Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will give the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo in butter before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or a splash of milk.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly; overcooking will make them rubbery. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
Add Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can add even more flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While orzo works best for its quick cooking time and ability to absorb flavors, you can substitute small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. You may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.
3. What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is complete on its own, but you can pair it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for an extra-special meal.
4. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
5. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep it from drying out.
6. Can I Add More Protein?
Certainly! You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even scallops for an extra protein boost.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo is a must-try recipe for busy weeknights or cozy date nights at home. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, yet simple enough to make with pantry staples. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for an easy, satisfying meal, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!
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