Go Back
+ servings
Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp – Quick Comfort on a Plate

This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp blends rich flavors and textures for a delicious dinner that’s perfect on busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 470

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • to taste teaspoon black pepper
  • to taste teaspoon salt
For the Orzo and Sauce
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon za’atar or mixed Italian herbs
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium shallot finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
For the Greens and Toppings
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan for serving
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta optional
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a bowl, combine shrimp with sweet paprika, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Marinate for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Sear shrimp for about 2 minutes until pink. Remove and keep warm.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low, add chopped shallot and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in orzo, dried oregano, za’atar, and more black pepper. Mix well for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Once orzo is tender, stir in fresh spinach, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and crumbled feta. Mix well until melted.
  7. Fold the reserved shrimp back into the orzo mixture and heat through on low.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and toasted pine nuts.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 250mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Avoid overcooking shrimp for best texture. Adjust creaminess by adding more broth if needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!