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Creamy Orzo Shrimp Skillet

A quick and creamy dish combining orzo, shrimp, and fresh spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, optional Recommended for garnish

Method
 

Cooking the Orzo
  1. In a large skillet, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Shrimp
  1. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Toss in the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Making It Creamy
  1. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
Combining Everything
  1. Add the cooked orzo and shrimp back into the skillet. Stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt gently. Mix until everything is well coated and creamy.
Garnishing and Serving
  1. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for that extra touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately.

Notes

This dish can be made vegetarian by swapping shrimp for chicken or sautéed veggies. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days—reheat gently.