Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Orzo is one of those comforting dinners that always draws everyone to the table. The creamy Cajun sauce clings to the orzo and juicy shrimp, making every bite rich and satisfying but never heavy. Whether it is a busy weeknight or I want something just a little bit special, this dish comes together quickly with a punch of flavor that keeps my family asking for seconds.

I first whipped this up after a long workday when I needed something fast yet bold. My husband declared it a new favorite and after that, I found myself coming back to this recipe every time I saw shrimp on sale at the market.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Raw shrimp: Choose large fresh or frozen that are peeled and deveined for best flavor and easy prep
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out natural flavors in both shrimp and sauce. Taste your salt before adding more at the end
• Garlic powder: Adds mellow depth and enhances the Cajun notes. Try to choose garlic powder without additives
• Smoked paprika: Gives a warm smokiness that balances the cream
• High smoke point oil: Canola or avocado oil works well for high heat searing. This helps get a nice crust on the shrimp
• Fresh garlic: Minced for aromatic punch. Look for plump cloves with tight skins
• Cherry tomatoes: Sweetness mellows the heat. Choose ones that are deep red and firm
• Butter: For silkiness in the sauce and a touch of richness
• Dry orzo pasta: The rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors. Select good quality orzo that holds its shape
• Chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with flavor as it cooks. Homemade or low sodium is best so you can control the seasoning
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce creamy and ties everything together
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty richness if you choose to sprinkle on top
• Fresh parsley: For a burst of color and brightness. Flat leaf is best if available

How to Make It

Prepare the Shrimp:

Pat the shrimp dry and toss them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika so every surface is seasoned and flavorful.

Sear the Shrimp:

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat until it just starts to shimmer. Lay the shrimp in a single layer and sear for about one to two minutes on each side so they get a light crust but stay juicy inside. Scoop them out and keep them covered so they stay warm.

Build the Flavor Base:

In the same pan with all those tasty seared bits, sauté the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes with butter over medium low heat. Stir frequently and let everything cook for at least five minutes until the tomatoes burst and the garlic smells sweet.

Toast the Orzo:

Pour in the dry orzo and stir to coat every grain in buttery tomato goodness. This step ensures each piece becomes flavorful as it cooks later.

Simmer the Orzo:

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything up to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble gently for about eight minutes while you stir often, scraping the pan. This helps coax all the creamy goodness from the orzo and prevents sticking.

Finish and Serve:

Turn the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the cooked shrimp back along with optional parmesan and parsley. Toss so everything is coated. Serve right away while creamy and hot.

Orzo is my secret love in pasta dishes like this. It cooks so quickly yet has a delicious bite and soaks up all the creamy Cajun sauce beautifully. I will never forget the first time I served this to my closest friends on a rainy night, the whole kitchen smelled incredible and everyone had seconds.

Flavor Boosters

Patting the shrimp dry helps them sear instead of steam. Do not skip toasting the orzo — it makes a huge difference for overall flavor. If you love heat, sprinkle a little more smoked paprika right before serving for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce. It pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Creative Twists

If you are out of shrimp, try diced chicken or even sliced sausage. Vegetable broth works for a lighter base and you can swap in spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

This creamy Cajun shrimp orzo will delight your family any night of the week. The bold flavor and simple technique make this a recipe you will turn to again and again.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do you prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Sear the shrimp quickly over medium heat, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove from heat as soon as they turn opaque to avoid rubbery texture.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous or acini di pepe work well as substitutes for orzo while maintaining consistent cooking times.

→ What does smoked paprika add to the dish?

Smoked paprika provides a mild smoky depth and vibrant color, enhancing the Cajun-inspired flavor without overwhelming the shrimp.

→ Is it necessary to use chicken broth?

Chicken broth adds a savory base for cooking orzo, but vegetable broth can be used as an alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

→ How can I make the sauce creamier?

Adjust the amount of heavy cream added at the end or incorporate a bit more butter while sautéing for extra richness and smoothness.