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A creamy Tuscan shrimp and orzo dish served in a white skillet, garnished with fresh parsley and filled with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan.

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo


  • Author: Hannah
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo is a one-skillet wonder loaded with tender shrimp, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and orzo in a velvety parmesan cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining.


Ingredients

Scale

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


Instructions

  • Sear the Shrimp
    Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

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

  • Deglaze the Pan
    Pour in the white wine (or broth) to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

  • Cook the Orzo
    Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

  • Make It Creamy
    Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Mix until a creamy sauce forms.

  • Add Shrimp and Spinach
    Return shrimp to the pan and add the baby spinach. Stir until spinach is wilted and shrimp is heated through.

  • Finish and Serve
    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.

Notes

To avoid rubbery shrimp, cook them quickly and remove from heat once just pink. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce. Use vegetable broth and dairy-free cream for a pescatarian or dairy-free version.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 790mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Orzo, One Pot Shrimp Pasta, Tuscan Orzo, Shrimp and Spinach Pasta, Easy Weeknight Shrimp Recipe