Name: One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small shallot, finely chopped; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 3 cups chicken broth (or seafood stock); ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Juice of ½ lemon

I’ve cooked a lot of shrimp pasta recipes, but this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is something truly unforgettable. From the moment the garlic hits the hot pan to the final swirl of creamy orzo, it’s a dish that feels as romantic as its name implies. I crafted this recipe out of my love for quick, flavorful meals that feel gourmet without the stress. And yes, it lives up to its charming title—it just might inspire someone to pop the question.

What makes this dish shine is the way the shrimp soaks up all the rich, tomato-garlic broth while the orzo turns perfectly creamy in one pot. It’s comforting, a little luxurious, and completely fuss-free. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or need an easy weeknight dinner that impresses, this recipe will win hearts (and appetites) every time.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Only one pot – less mess, more flavor.
15-minute prep and under 30 minutes total.
Juicy, tender shrimp + creamy, garlicky orzo = a match made in heaven.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or entertaining.
Easily adaptable with pantry staples and fresh herbs.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

When making One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta, I always recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, with tails on or off depending on your presentation preference. I personally like the tails on for visual appeal, but if you’re serving this as a cozy dinner, going tail-off makes it easier to eat. Fresh shrimp will always bring the best flavor, but high-quality frozen shrimp, thawed properly, works beautifully too.

Avoid small shrimp as they can overcook quickly and get lost in the orzo. Wild-caught options have a slightly firmer texture and sweeter taste, but sustainably farmed shrimp can also be great. Just make sure they’re raw when you start – pre-cooked shrimp will become rubbery during the simmer.

Options for Substitutions

You can easily adapt this dish based on what’s in your kitchen or dietary preferences:

Pasta: No orzo? Try couscous, ditalini, or even broken spaghetti. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Shrimp: Substitute with scallops, chunks of salmon, or even diced chicken breast for a different protein.
Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted cherry tomatoes give a deeper, sweeter punch if canned ones aren’t your thing.
Broth: Seafood stock brings depth, but chicken or vegetable broth works in a pinch.
Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be used in place of parsley for a fragrant twist.

Ingredients for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building deep, cozy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Shrimp – The star of the dish. Choose large, raw shrimp for the best bite and juiciness.
Orzo pasta – Acts like rice but cooks faster and soaks up all the luscious sauce in the same pot.
Garlic – Brings a bold, aromatic foundation. It’s the first flavor you notice.
Shallots – Milder than onion but still adds a sweet-savory base.
Sun-dried tomatoes – The “marry me” signature. Their tangy sweetness makes the sauce irresistible.
Crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a gentle heat to balance the richness.
Chicken broth or seafood stock – This is where the orzo cooks and absorbs all the flavor.
Heavy cream – Makes everything velvety and indulgent.
Parmesan cheese – Gives body to the sauce with a nutty, salty finish.
Olive oil – Used for sautéing; it binds all the base ingredients together.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasoning to balance all the bold flavors.
Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and herby freshness right before serving.
Lemon juice – A final splash lifts and brightens the whole dish.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle together until the garlic is just golden—this is your flavor foundation.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Add the dry orzo directly into the pan with the aromatics. Stir it around for a minute or two until it’s lightly toasted and coated in oil. This step brings a nutty undertone to the dish and helps keep the orzo al dente later.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in your chicken broth or seafood stock, then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir everything well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and let the orzo cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Nestle the raw shrimp into the simmering orzo during the last 4–5 minutes of cooking. Flip them halfway through to cook evenly. They should turn pink and opaque—watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Once the orzo is tender and the shrimp are just cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. This is when everything transforms into a rich, creamy sauce. Simmer gently for 2 more minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve straight from the skillet while it’s warm, creamy, and absolutely inviting.

How Long to Cook the One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

The total cooking time for this dish is just around 25–30 minutes:

Prep time: 10 minutes (peeling shrimp, chopping shallots, garlic, and herbs)
Sautéing aromatics: 3 minutes
Toasting orzo: 2 minutes
Simmering orzo in broth: 8–10 minutes
Cooking shrimp and finishing with cream: 5–7 minutes

You’ll know it’s done when the orzo is creamy but not mushy, and the shrimp are firm, pink, and curled.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked—this ensures they soak up flavor and remain juicy.
Toast the orzo before adding the liquid—it adds depth and keeps it from turning mushy.
Add shrimp last to avoid overcooking. They only need a few minutes.
Stir often while the orzo simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness with Parmesan and final seasoning.
Finish with fresh lemon juice—it brightens all the rich flavors.
Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes—they’re what give the dish its signature “marry me” magic.
Serve immediately—orzo thickens as it sits, so enjoy it while it’s perfectly saucy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple one-pot recipe like One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here’s what to watch for:

Overcooking the shrimp: They become rubbery fast! Add them late and cook just until pink and firm.
Undercooking orzo: Taste a few grains before adding cream. It should be tender but slightly firm (al dente).
Skipping the toasting step: It may seem small, but it gives the orzo a wonderful depth of flavor.
Adding too much broth at once: It can make the orzo soupy instead of creamy. Add just enough and let it simmer down.
Not stirring enough: Orzo loves to stick to the bottom if ignored.
Using pre-shredded Parmesan: Freshly grated melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
Neglecting seasoning: Always taste after adding the cream and cheese, adjusting salt and pepper.
Letting it sit too long before serving: The orzo will continue to absorb liquid and can become too thick.

What to Serve With One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

Crusty Bread

To mop up every drop of that luscious sauce—honestly, it’s a must.

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with a lemon vinaigrette keep things fresh and light.

Garlic Roasted Broccoli

Adds a hearty veggie side without overpowering the main dish.

Glass of Chilled White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.

Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Refreshing and crunchy, perfect to balance the creaminess.

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Ties in with the cheesy notes of the pasta.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

A pop of citrus keeps your palate refreshed.

Light Lemon Cake

For a sweet, bright ending to a cozy, indulgent meal.

Storage Instructions

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta stores surprisingly well, though it’s always best fresh. Here’s how to save those delicious leftovers:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can toughen when reheated, try to eat it within that window.
Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing this dish. The cream sauce and cooked shrimp can both turn grainy and rubbery after thawing.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently and heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Meal prep tip: If you want to make ahead, cook the orzo separately and sauté the shrimp just before serving.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings total):

Calories: 520
Protein: 30g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 890mg

Note: These are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce during the sautéing step. You can also toss in diced jalapeños if you want serious heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Small shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti work well. Just monitor the liquid ratio and cooking time.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter dish or use a mix of milk and a little butter. It won’t be as creamy, but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream (unsweetened) and a plant-based Parmesan substitute.

How do I thaw frozen shrimp properly?

Place frozen shrimp in a colander under cold running water for about 5–10 minutes, tossing occasionally until fully thawed. Pat them dry before cooking.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the aromatics and shrimp earlier in the day, but cook the orzo and shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Why is my orzo too thick after sitting?

Orzo keeps absorbing liquid even after cooking. Stir in a splash of warm broth or cream to loosen it before serving leftovers.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, peas, or chopped asparagus make excellent additions—just stir them in toward the end of cooking so they stay vibrant and fresh.

Conclusion

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a celebration in one skillet. The creamy sauce, juicy shrimp, tender orzo, and bursts of sun-dried tomato flavor come together in perfect harmony. It’s a recipe that’s designed to impress without stressing you out in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, a family gathering, or just yourself after a long day, this dish guarantees a table full of smiles (and maybe even a proposal or two!).