Name: Tuscan Shrimp Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

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This Tuscan Shrimp Orzo is a creamy, cozy dish that I love making when I want something comforting but still full of flavor. The tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and soft orzo come together perfectly, making this a meal that feels special while staying simple and approachable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s made in one pan and doesn’t require complicated steps. The orzo absorbs all the flavors as it cooks, and the shrimp stay juicy and tender. I also enjoy how flexible it is, since I can adjust the creaminess or add vegetables depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Directions

I begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced onion and cook it until soft, then stir in the garlic and let it cook briefly until fragrant. I add the shrimp, season them lightly with salt and pepper, and cook just until they turn pink. I remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

In the same skillet, I add the orzo and stir it for about a minute. I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. I then add the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce gently thicken.

Once the sauce is creamy, I stir in the spinach until it wilts. I return the shrimp to the skillet, add the parmesan cheese, and let everything cook together for a few minutes. I finish by sprinkling fresh herbs over the top before serving.

Servings And Timing

I usually get 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Total time is approximately 35 minutes.

Variations

I like replacing shrimp with chicken or scallops when I want to change things up. Sometimes I add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra texture. If I prefer a lighter sauce, I reduce the cream slightly and add a bit more broth.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of broth or cream and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

I can use frozen shrimp as long as I thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Does Orzo Need To Be Cooked Separately?

I don’t cook it separately since it cooks directly in the sauce and absorbs more flavor that way.

Can I Make This Dish Spicy?

I like adding red pepper flakes if I want a bit of heat.

What Can I Use Instead Of Heavy Cream?

I sometimes use half-and-half, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Is This Recipe Good For Meal Prep?

I think it works well for short-term meal prep, especially if I reheat it gently.

Conclusion

This Tuscan Shrimp Orzo is one of my favorite meals when I want something creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. I love how it comes together in one pan and feels comforting every time I make it, making it a recipe I come back to again and again.