Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo

This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo is a restaurant-quality dish you can whip up at home in under 30 minutes. With tender shrimp, velvety parmesan cream sauce, and orzo infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, every bite bursts with Tuscan flavors that make dinner feel like a luxurious escape.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish hits all the high notes—creamy, savory, comforting, and easy. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers elegance and bold Italian flavor without a lot of prep or cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special date night, or just treating yourself, it fits the moment.

Pure Comfort

Creamy pasta dishes are always a win, but when you add perfectly cooked shrimp, rich parmesan, and the earthy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, you elevate comfort food to something extraordinary. This orzo-based meal is hearty yet refined, cozy but vibrant—everything comfort food should be.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Orzo

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

What You Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander for rinsing shrimp or draining oil from sun-dried tomatoes

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Steps to Make It

1. Sear the Shrimp

Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes if using.

3. Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes, letting the wine reduce.

4. Cook the Orzo

Stir in orzo and pour in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.

5. Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.

6. Add Greens and Shrimp

Stir in spinach until wilted. Return shrimp to the pan, cooking 2 more minutes to heat through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm.

Make It Perfect

Cook the shrimp just until they’re pink—overcooked shrimp turn rubbery fast. Stir the orzo regularly to prevent sticking. Let the parmesan melt gently into the cream for a silky sauce.

Mix It Up

Swap the shrimp for chicken or scallops, or try kale instead of spinach. Stir in mushrooms, peas, or roasted red peppers for more veggie power. Make it spicy with extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Perfect Partners

Serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce, a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.

Busy Day Hero

This recipe comes together in 30 minutes flat with minimal cleanup. It’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need something fast but crave something delicious.

Work Ahead

You can prep shrimp, chop garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and grate parmesan in advance. Store them separately in the fridge so you can toss everything together in minutes when it’s go-time.

Save Some For Later

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating on the stovetop to loosen the sauce. It’s just as good (maybe better!) the next day.

Everyone’s Happy

Kids love the creamy texture, while adults savor the savory flavor. It’s naturally nut-free and can easily be gluten-free by swapping in a GF orzo or small pasta shape.

Good For You Too

Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in fat. Spinach adds iron and vitamins, and orzo offers a filling, energy-sustaining base. It’s indulgent, sure—but balanced too.

Easy Clean Up

It’s a one-skillet meal, which means fewer dishes to wash. Just one pan for cooking, and you’re done.

Switch It Up

Try using half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version. Craving richness? Add a touch of butter at the end. Want more tang? Stir in a teaspoon of lemon zest or juice before serving.

Simply Perfect

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo is everything you want in a cozy dinner: quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve it for guests or a solo treat, it’s a guaranteed hit every time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan.

Can I substitute the orzo?
Definitely! Try small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish spicy?
Only if you add the red pepper flakes. Feel free to skip them for a milder taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based cream and dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast.

What wine works best in this recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger pan and adjust cook times slightly if needed.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo is your go-to when you want to treat yourself without a ton of work. Packed with flavor, ready in a flash, and gorgeous enough for company—this is one meal that always delivers.

More Creamy Comfort Dishes You’ll Devour

If this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo recipe made your taste buds dance, you’re in for a treat with these deliciously similar dishes! Dive into another creamy seafood sensation with the irresistible Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce—a flavorful combo that’s just as elegant. Keep the pasta theme going strong with the fan-favorite Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a chicken twist. If you’re looking for something with a hint of heat, the Spicy Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage balances spice and heartiness like a charm. For a playful yet comforting meal, the cheesy Pizza Burger Pie is a fusion winner. And when you’re craving a meatless pasta alternative, don’t skip the herby, rich Creamy Homemade Alfredo Sauce—perfect for tossing with orzo too!

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