Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo (Print-Friendly Version)

Savor a creamy Cajun shrimp dish featuring tender orzo pasta and fresh cherry tomatoes. Ideal for a cozy dinner any time of year, this flavorful dish is a keeper.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Seasoning

02 - Salt, to taste

03 - Black pepper, to taste

04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder

05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Pan ingredients

06 - 1 tablespoon oil with a high smoke point

07 - 6 garlic cloves, minced

08 - 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

09 - 2 tablespoons butter

→ Pasta

10 - 1 cup dry orzo pasta

→ Liquids and Dairy

11 - 3 cups chicken broth

12 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ Garnishes (optional)

13 - Parmesan cheese, grated

14 - Fresh parsley, chopped

# How to Make It:

01 - Toss shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

02 - Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side or until just cooked through. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.

03 - Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes or until tomatoes are softened.

04 - Add orzo pasta to the pan and stir until coated. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes or until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

05 - Stir in heavy cream, and if desired, grated parmesan and chopped parsley. Return the shrimp to the pan. Mix gently until combined and heated through. Serve immediately.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For more depth, use homemade chicken broth if available.

02 - Adjust the heavy cream quantity to achieve desired richness.

03 - Bell pepper or fresh spinach may be added with the tomatoes for added vegetables.

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