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Creamy Shrimp Orzo

A rich and silky one-pot orzo dish with tender shrimp, garlic butter, Parmesan, spinach, and cream. Ready in 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups spinach fresh, chopped
  • 1 lemon zest zest of 1 lemon
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Sear shrimp in olive oil for 1–2 minutes per side and set aside.
  3. Melt butter in skillet and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
  4. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and Italian seasoning; simmer 10 minutes.
  6. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and lemon zest; stir until creamy.
  7. Stir in chopped spinach until wilted.
  8. Return shrimp to skillet and simmer 1–2 minutes.

Notes

Add cherry tomatoes or red pepper flakes for extra color or heat.