Cheesy Shrimp Orzo Bowl (Print View)

Tender shrimp, cheesy orzo, and veggies combine for a comforting and satisfying bowl full of rich flavor.

# Components:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Orzo & Dairy

02 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
03 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 3/4 cup whole milk
06 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

→ Vegetables

07 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
08 - 2 cups baby spinach
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped

→ Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
16 - Zest of 1 lemon
17 - Juice of 1/2 lemon

→ Garnish

18 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain orzo, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
02 - Pat shrimp dry and season evenly with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp to a plate.
04 - In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Add chopped shallot and minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
05 - Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted.
06 - Lower heat to medium-low. Add cooked orzo, whole milk, shredded cheddar, and grated Parmesan. Stir gently until both cheeses are melted and mixture is creamy. Add reserved pasta water to loosen if desired.
07 - Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice. Return shrimp and any accumulated juices to skillet. Toss gently to combine and heat through.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses familiar ingredients you probably already have
  • One pan for less mess and easy cleanup
  • Ready from scratch in about half an hour
  • Balanced with protein, veggies, and creamy pasta texture
  • Each bite feels rich but also bright from lemon zest and herbs
02 -
  • Loaded with protein and calcium for balanced nutrition
  • Can be adapted for gluten-free or lighter dairy
  • Keeps well for next-day lunches and reheats beautifully
03 -
  • Always save some pasta cooking water before draining
  • Choose large fresh shrimp for the best taste and do not overcook
  • Shred cheese yourself for the smoothest melting
  • Fresh lemon zest is the secret to lifting up the flavor
  • Sauté the aromatics slowly so you get the fullest possible base
  • If you are short on time, prep all veg and cheese while water comes to a boil

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