One Pot Creamy Cajun Orzo with Shrimp
This creamy Cajun orzo with shrimp is a quick and comforting one-pot meal that delivers tender shrimp, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce in every bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled your stars of the dish
- 1 tablespoon flour for that light coating on the shrimp
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided because you gotta layer that spicy punch
- 1 tablespoon salt, divided to keep things balanced, you’ll see why
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided for sear and saute magic
- 1 medium onion, diced adds sweetness and depth
- 3 stalks celery, diced for crunch and flavor
- 1 green bell pepper diced brightens things up
- 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced that garlic smell, you’ll thank me
- 1 red bell pepper diced color and just that little extra oomph
- 1 cup orzo the pasta that soaks up all the goodness
- 3 cups water or broth of choice for perfect broth depth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream makes it creamy and dreamy
- 1 cup frozen peas little pops of sweetness at the end
Instructions
Instructions
- Toss the peeled shrimp with flour, half the Cajun seasoning, and half the salt. This layering helps the shrimp get a nice crust later.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp about 2 minutes each side until pink. Remove and set ’em aside.
- Add remaining tablespoon olive oil then toss in diced onion, celery, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook them about 5-7 minutes until softened and smelling great.
- Throw in the sliced garlic, cook 1 more minute just until fragrant. Keep an eye or nose on that!
- Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning and salt so all those flavors cling to the veggies.
- Pour in the orzo. Stir well so it gets coated with that spicy, garlicky goodness.
- Add 4 cups of water or broth and bring it to a boil. After that, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer about 12-15 minutes till orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
- Return the shrimp to the pot, mix in the heavy cream and peas. Stir gently until everything’s creamy and heated through. Season to taste and serve right away.
Notes
This recipe yields a flavorful, creamy Cajun orzo with perfectly tender shrimp and vibrant vegetables. Quick release pressure cooking ensures shrimp stay juicy and orzo is cooked to perfection. Leftovers keep well and are easily reheated without losing creaminess.