Name: One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper, to taste

When you need a dinner that feels indulgent but only takes one pan to make, this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is your go-to. Juicy shrimp are pan-seared to golden perfection and tossed with tender orzo, blistered cherry tomatoes, and a rich, garlicky sauce infused with herbs. It’s a dish that marries flavor, simplicity, and comfort in every single bite.

This meal is a weekday savior and a weekend showstopper. Whether you’re cooking for a partner or hosting friends, it delivers restaurant-quality taste with homey ease. Plus, with everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is minimal, so you can spend more time savoring the food and less time scrubbing.

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

One Pan Wonder: Minimal mess, maximal flavor.
Fast but Fancy: Ready in under 30 minutes but feels like fine dining.
Packed with Flavor: Garlic, herbs, juicy shrimp, creamy orzo, and tomatoes work magic together.
Customizable: Add spinach, red pepper flakes, or swap shrimp for scallops.
Perfect for Date Night or Family Dinner: Elegant yet approachable.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this recipe together quickly and efficiently, you’ll want to prep everything ahead. The shrimp cooks fast, so having ingredients ready ensures nothing overcooks.

Essential Tools & Equipment:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan (with Lid): The heart of the recipe. A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat and enough room to sauté the shrimp and simmer the orzo.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring without damaging non-stick surfaces.
Tongs: Help flip the shrimp with precision and ease.
Microplane or Garlic Press: Fresh garlic makes the flavor pop; these tools make prep quick.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision ensures perfect seasoning and orzo texture.

Ingredients for the One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Shrimp: The star of the dish. Choose large or jumbo for the best texture.
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta absorbs flavor while staying creamy.
Cherry Tomatoes: Adds a burst of sweetness and color when blistered.
Garlic: Brings deep, aromatic flavor.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp and enhancing richness.
Chicken Broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth.
Parmesan Cheese: For creaminess and sharpness.
Italian Seasoning: Adds herby, warm complexity.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that balances the richness.
Fresh Parsley: Finishes the dish with color and freshness.

How To Make the One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp and cook until pink and lightly golden on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Tomatoes

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes start to blister and garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Add orzo to the pan with chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine, scraping any brown bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender and broth is absorbed.

Step 4: Combine & Finish

Return shrimp to the skillet. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Plate it up immediately while creamy and warm. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan for added flair.

Serving and Storing This Marry Me Shrimp Orzo Dish

This dish is best served hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. For wine lovers, a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the seafood beautifully.

To store, cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing isn’t recommended due to the shrimp texture and pasta consistency.