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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo – Easy One Pot Dinner

Creamy garlic shrimp orzo is a one-pot dinner made with tender shrimp, orzo pasta, garlic, cream, Parmesan, and fresh lemon.
Sear the shrimp, toast the orzo, and simmer the pasta in flavorful broth until tender.
Stir in cream, Parmesan, and spinach, then return the shrimp. Ready in approximately 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course, Dinner
Cuisine Italian-Inspired, American

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp

  • - 1 lb 450 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • - Salt to taste
  • - 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Orzo and Flavor Base

  • - 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • - 2 tablespoons butter
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 3 garlic cloves minced
  • - 1 shallot finely diced

For the Creamy Sauce

  • - ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • - 1 teaspoon lemon juice for deglazing
  • - 3 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth
  • - ½ cup heavy cream
  • - ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese made with microbial or vegetarian rennet
  • - 2 cups fresh spinach optional
  • - Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Garnish

  • - Fresh parsley or basil chopped
  • - Extra halal-friendly Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

  • Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Season evenly with salt and paprika.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
  • Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes per side, depending on their size, until pink, opaque, and cooked through.
  • Transfer the shrimp to a clean plate and set aside while preparing the orzo.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Orzo Base

  • Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet.
  • Allow the butter to melt, then add the finely diced shallot.
  • Sauté for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallot softens.
  • Add the minced garlic and uncooked orzo pasta.
  • Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the orzo develops a lightly toasted color.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

  • Pour in the additional ½ cup broth mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
  • Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  • Add the 3 cups of warm chicken or vegetable broth.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
  • Simmer uncovered for approximately 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  • Continue cooking until the orzo becomes tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  • If the pasta becomes too dry before it is fully cooked, add a small splash of warm broth or water.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  • Reduce the heat to low.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Mix gently until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
  • Add the fresh spinach, if using, and stir until wilted.
  • Mix in the lemon zest and gradually add lemon juice to taste.
  • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Stir gently until the sauce coats the orzo evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  • Return the cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
  • Gently fold the shrimp into the creamy pasta.
  • Warm everything together briefly over low heat without overcooking the shrimp.
  • Remove from the heat once the shrimp is warmed through and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  • Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
  • Add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Serve your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo immediately while warm, creamy, and delicious.

Notes

Make it lighter: Replace part of the heavy cream with additional broth or half-and-half for a lighter sauce. The texture will be slightly less rich but still creamy.
Add extra vegetables: Stir in fresh spinach, green peas, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped asparagus to add color, texture, and freshness.
Try a different protein: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken breast pieces. Adjust the cooking time and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free butter, unsweetened plant-based cooking cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Add a little heat: A small pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a gentle spicy kick that complements the garlic and lemon.
Serve with simple sides: Pair this creamy shrimp pasta with roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, or warm garlic bread.
Adjust before serving: Orzo absorbs liquid as it rests, so keep the sauce slightly loose while finishing the dish.