Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo

Get ready to bring some bold, comforting flavors to your dinner table with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo. This dish perfectly balances the spicy warmth of Cajun seasoning with the rich creaminess of a luscious sauce, all tossed with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to serve when guests come over. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just craving something with a little kick, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Reasons to Love Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy sauce combined with the tender orzo and juicy shrimp creates a satisfying, cozy meal.
• Bold Flavor: Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of spice and depth, making every bite exciting.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the veggies or add your favorite herbs to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

What You’ll Need

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Setup & Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking shrimp and vegetables.
• Medium saucepan – to cook the orzo in broth.
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping veggies and shrimp.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to portion ingredients accurately.

Cook Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by seasoning your peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning. Toss them so every piece is coated evenly. This step ensures the shrimp will have that signature spicy kick that makes this dish stand out.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This creates the flavorful base for the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Don’t overcook them; they’ll finish cooking once combined with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Return the skillet with the vegetables to the stove. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit more Cajun seasoning if you want extra heat. Let the sauce thicken for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked orzo and shrimp back into the skillet with the creamy sauce and vegetables. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo is perfect on its own or paired with other dishes like a fresh salad or garlic bread. For another shrimp recipe with a different twist, try the Sticky Sesame Garlic Shrimp—it’s a family favorite!

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a low-fat cream alternative to reduce calories while keeping creaminess.
• Use whole wheat orzo or a low-carb pasta alternative to increase fiber or lower carbs.
• Swap olive oil for a non-stick cooking spray to cut down on fat.
• Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrients and volume without many calories.

Little Things that Matter

• Use fresh shrimp when possible for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the Cajun seasoning—it’s the star of the dish and brings all the other ingredients together.
• Make sure to not overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery quickly.
• Let the sauce simmer gently; high heat can cause the cream to curdle.
• Garnishing with parsley not only adds color but also a fresh note to balance the creamy and spicy flavors.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. To freeze, cool the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo completely and place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken when cold.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the sauce consistency.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk, cashew cream, or a dairy-free creamer depending on your preference. Keep in mind that substitutions may alter the flavor slightly but will still provide a creamy texture.

Is orzo the only pasta I can use?

While orzo works best for this recipe due to its small size and quick cooking time, you can use other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spice depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount to half a tablespoon or choose a milder seasoning blend.

Serve with These

• Sweet Corn And Shrimp Chowder – a hearty soup that complements the flavors nicely.
• Garlic bread – perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette – adds a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Steamed asparagus or green beans – a crisp, healthy side to balance the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Orzo is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal that feels indulgent without being complicated. Its bold spices, creamy sauce, and tender shrimp make it a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly. Perfect for those nights when you want a little something special without the fuss, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, it’s sure to impress and keep them coming back for more. Don’t forget to pair it with some fresh sides or try it alongside other seafood favorites like the Sticky Sesame Garlic Shrimp for a delicious seafood feast!

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