Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Tomato Orzo
Savor tender jumbo shrimp and cherry tomatoes in a rich, garlicky orzo pasta, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cherry tomatoes
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb shrimp – I use jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails off
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced thinly
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 8 ounces uncooked orzo
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package directions for 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly blistered.
- Gently smash the softened tomatoes with the back of a spoon or a plate until they are partially burst and releasing their juices.
- Make a clearing in the center of the pan and add the 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the shrimp seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Add the sliced garlic and remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to the pan.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, half and half, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together over medium heat until the orzo is creamy and the shrimp are fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
Notes
- Use fresh, good-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Ensure your Parmesan is finely grated for maximum creaminess. Allergens: Milk, Shellfish, Wheat. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Ensure your Parmesan is finely grated for maximum creaminess. Allergens: Milk, Shellfish, Wheat. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.