If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe brings together juicy shrimp, tender orzo, and vibrant tomato flavors in a rich, savory broth that cooks up in a flash thanks to the Instant Pot. It’s a one-pot wonder that balances simplicity and gourmet appeal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. The blend of aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice creates a comforting, satisfying meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe is surprisingly straightforward because every ingredient plays a starring role in delivering fresh, robust flavors and a pleasing texture. These essentials create a dish that is as beautiful on the plate as it is on the palate.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides tender, juicy protein that cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that is essential for that classic tomato and seafood profile.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Infuses the dish with vibrant color and a bright, tangy base.
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory backbone, keeping the orzo juicy without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: The star starch, giving the dish a lovely creamy texture once cooked.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings herbaceous warmth and Italian flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers just the right amount of heat to elevate the flavor without overwhelming.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory, nutty finish when sprinkled on top.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional): Provides a burst of freshness and vibrant color as a garnish.
How to Make Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
First up, set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it for about 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and turns slightly translucent, releasing its sweetness.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Aromatics
Next, add the minced garlic. Stir it around for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this little step creates a wonderful aroma that makes your kitchen feel instantly cozy and inviting.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, including all the delicious juices, followed by the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes if you want some heat, and season with salt and pepper. Let everything come together with a gentle simmer to blend the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Orzo Pasta
Stir in the orzo, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in the simmering tomato and broth mixture. This step is key to guarantee even cooking so each bite of orzo is tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Orzo
Close the Instant Pot lid securely and set the valve to Sealing. Select Manual or Pressure Cook and set the timer to 5 minutes on high pressure. This will cook the orzo just right without turning it mushy.
Step 6: Quick Release and Stir
When the timer goes off, perform a Quick Release by carefully turning the valve to Venting. Open the lid and give the orzo a good stir. If there’s any excess liquid pooling, just let the dish sit for a couple of minutes—it’ll soak right in, making the pasta creamy and luscious.
Step 7: Cook the Shrimp with Residual Heat
Gently stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp into the orzo. Close the lid again and let the residual heat from the Instant Pot cook the shrimp for about 5 minutes, or until they’re perfectly pink and opaque. This gentle cooking preserves their tenderness and succulent texture.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give the whole dish one last stir, taste, and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. The dish is now ready for the optional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley to add that extra sparkle of flavor and color before serving.
How to Serve Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a creamy, nutty kick that complements the juicy shrimp marvelously. A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds bright, herbaceous notes and a lovely pop of green color. These garnishes are an easy way to make the dish look vibrant and taste even better.
Side Dishes
This hearty, flavorful orzo pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. For a bit more texture on the plate, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a smoky contrast that elevates the meal to the next level.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe in individual shallow bowls and garnish each serving with a lemon wedge. The citrus adds brightness that complements the seafood while making your meal look restaurant-worthy and vibrant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely after resting, making the next meal just as delicious if not better!
Freezing
While shrimp dishes don’t always freeze perfectly due to texture changes, you can freeze the orzo and tomato base separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and gently reheat, then cook fresh shrimp to add at serving time.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the orzo and keep it creamy and moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before adding them to the Instant Pot. This helps prevent excess liquid and ensures better texture when cooked.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs as a garnish?
While fresh herbs add a lovely fresh flavor and appearance, you can always substitute with a sprinkle of dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand. Fresh is best when possible, though.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can swap the shrimp for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will have a different but still satisfying flavor.
What type of orzo works best?
Regular orzo pasta is ideal for this recipe. Whole wheat orzo can be used but may have a slightly nuttier taste and firmer texture.
How spicy is the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes so you can control the heat level. Leaving them out makes it mild and accessible for all palates, while adding them gives a gentle kick of spiciness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about the ease and flavor that the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe brings to your table. It’s a brilliant blend of speedy cooking and rich, comforting ingredients that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner you’ll want to keep close at hand. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Print
Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo is a quick and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a savory tomato-based broth infused with garlic, onion, and herbs. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy dinner option that delivers Mediterranean-inspired tastes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Once hot, add the olive oil to the pot.
- Cook the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring.
- Add Orzo Pasta: Stir the orzo into the tomato mixture making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid securely and set the valve to Sealing.
- Pressure Cook: Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Quick Release Pressure: When the cooking cycle ends, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to Venting.
- Check Orzo and Absorb Liquid: Open the lid and stir the orzo. If there is excess liquid, let it sit for a couple of minutes to absorb for the best texture.
- Add Shrimp: Gently fold the peeled and deveined shrimp into the orzo mixture. Close the lid again and let the residual heat cook the shrimp for about 5 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Final Taste and Season: Stir everything together again and taste, adjusting salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve: Plate the orzo and shrimp, then garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley as desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; residual heat after pressure cooking is enough to cook them perfectly.
- You can substitute fresh oregano for dried oregano if preferred, using about 1 tablespoon.
- Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs add brightness but can be omitted for a dairy-free or simpler version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
