Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, the Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet is exactly what your dinner table needs. This one-pan wonder combines tender shrimp with luscious, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all brightened up by fresh spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s straightforward to make, impressive on the plate, and deeply satisfying with every bite.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

What makes this Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet stand out is its balance of textures and flavors. The shrimp are succulent and sweet, the orzo absorbs the creamy sauce like a dream, and the fresh veggies add pops of color and freshness. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this recipe hits all the right notes: quick, delicious, and beautifully wholesome.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and cooks quickly.
• 1 cup orzo pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that cooks to a creamy texture.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture to the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, luscious sauce that coats everything beautifully.
• 1 cup spinach, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a boost of nutrients.
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: For a sweet-tart freshness that balances the creaminess.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and warmth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal note and pretty finish.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large skillet: A 10-12 inch skillet is perfect to cook everything in one pan.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring without scratching your skillet.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Chef’s knife: For chopping garlic, spinach, and tomatoes.
• Cutting board: To prep your fresh ingredients safely.

Build Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet Step by Step

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in Cream, Spinach, and Tomatoes

Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the spinach wilt and the tomatoes soften slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Shrimp

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing gently to combine and warm through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately, spooning this luscious Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet onto plates or bowls.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips for a sweet crunch.
• Summer: Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes to intensify flavor.
• Fall: Stir in roasted butternut squash cubes for a cozy twist.
• Winter: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for warmth and depth.

Testing Timeline

• First run: Focused on getting the orzo texture right – not too mushy, not too firm.
• Second test: Balanced the cream and broth ratio to ensure sauce thickness.
• Final test: Perfected shrimp cooking time for tender, juicy bites.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. For best results, freeze the orzo and shrimp mixture without the cream, then add fresh cream when reheating.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a blend of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works perfectly and keeps the dish flavorful and suitable for various dietary preferences.

What can I serve alongside this skillet meal?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully. For more creamy seafood pasta inspiration, try the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne or the One Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for variety.

Don’t Miss These

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne – A rich and garlicky pasta that’s just as easy as this skillet.
• One Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta – Spice things up with this bold, flavorful dish.

Wrap-Up

From its velvety sauce to its tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo, this Creamy Shrimp Orzo Skillet is a fantastic dish to have in your regular rotation. It’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough to serve when guests come over. The fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes add just the right amount of brightness, making every bite memorable. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe is a keeper!

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