Dive into a culinary delight with our Shrimp and Orzo Casserole, a dish that promises to elevate your dinner experience! This Italian-inspired recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the eyes and palate. Ready in just 45 minutes, you won't want to miss out on this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a meal that’s as delicious as it is simple!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp start to turn pink, then remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is partially cooked but still slightly firm.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the orzo mixture to the prepared baking dish. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly across the top of the pasta.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire casserole, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown and edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and casserole to set.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired. Pairs well with a light side salad or crusty bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prep your ingredients in advance. Chop the onions and garlic, and peel the shrimp the night before, so you can quickly throw everything together when it’s time to cook.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orzo mixture for an extra kick.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella adds a lovely stretch and creaminess, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's freshness and flavor.
- Pairing Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 180mg
