If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash, look no further than Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is creamy, vibrant, and brimming with juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a sunshiney burst of lemon. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, so you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to bring Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo to life. Each element has a special role, from building the savory base to adding pops of color and texture that make every bite irresistible.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps the onions and garlic release their delicious aromas.
- Onion: Diced onion forms the sweet and savory backbone of the dish, adding subtle depth.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punchy, aromatic kick that infuses the orzo and sauce.
- Orzo pasta: This short, rice-shaped pasta creates a creamy, risotto-like texture—perfect for soaking up all the flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and shrimp.
- Diced tomatoes with juice: Canned tomatoes provide both tangy brightness and a luscious, saucy consistency.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid base that cooks the orzo and keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Dried oregano: Oregano brings a subtle Mediterranean herbiness that ties the whole dish together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and drawing out every nuance of flavor.
- Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): Shrimp cook quickly and become juicy and tender, making them the star protein.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a creamy, salty finish that melds beautifully with the orzo and shrimp.
- Fresh lemon juice: Just a splash lifts and brightens the whole pot, making the flavors pop.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish): A sprinkle of green adds freshness and a lovely finishing touch.
How to Make Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and pour in the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for another 30 seconds. This quick step unlocks a world of flavor right at the start.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, making sure each grain is coated in the fragrant oil and aromatics. Toasting the orzo briefly intensifies its nutty flavor and helps it hold its shape once cooked.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), the broth, dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure the orzo is evenly distributed. Hit Cancel to stop the sautéing process—now you’re ready to cook under pressure!
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to Pressure Cook on high for 4 minutes. It’s barely enough time to set the table or toss together a quick salad! Once the timer beeps, do a quick release to let the steam escape immediately.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Carefully open the lid and immediately stir in the raw shrimp. Replace the lid (no need to seal this time), and let the residual heat gently cook the shrimp for 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque—perfectly juicy and never rubbery.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed. The cheese brings creamy richness, while the lemon wakes up every other flavor. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve your Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo piping hot.
How to Serve Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo
Garnishes
A flourish of freshly chopped parsley adds color and a burst of herbal freshness. If you love a bit of zing, a pinch of extra lemon zest or a drizzle of good olive oil can make your Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo look and taste extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or some warm, crusty bread for sopping up every last bit of sauce. A glass of white wine wouldn’t hurt, either!
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, spoon the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo into shallow bowls and top each serving with a whole shrimp, a shaving of Parmesan, and a sprig of parsley. Or, serve alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful, Mediterranean-inspired platter that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo a fantastic make-ahead lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
While the orzo’s texture is best when freshly made, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the pasta may soften a bit once reheated. Store in freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and restore that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo?
Yes! Just thaw the shrimp first, pat them dry, and proceed as directed. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t water down the sauce.
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, try another small pasta like ditalini or even small shells, though the texture will be slightly different. Arborio rice can work in a pinch, but you may need to adjust the liquid and cook time.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s only as spicy as you want it to be! The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can omit them for a milder, kid-friendly version of Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo.
Can I make Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply skip the Parmesan or use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the dish creamy and satisfying.
What vegetables can I add?
Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers make fantastic additions. Stir them in at the end along with the shrimp so they stay vibrant and don’t overcook.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for busy nights and dinner parties alike. Every bite is packed with comfort and Mediterranean sunshine, and it’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever made pasta any other way. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo recipe is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for busy weeknights. The tender orzo pasta is cooked with diced tomatoes and aromatic herbs, then topped with succulent shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this hearty main course combines the convenience of pressure cooking with fresh, vibrant ingredients for a satisfying seafood pasta meal.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, uncooked
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Protein & Cheese
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Orzo and Liquids: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir thoroughly to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with juice, the broth, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and then press the Cancel button to stop sautéing.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to Pressure Cook on high for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release to rapidly depressurize.
- Add Shrimp: Carefully open the lid and stir in the raw shrimp. Replace the lid without sealing and let the shrimp sit in the hot liquid for 3 to 5 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice, mixing well to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use medium or large shrimp for the best texture and quicker cooking.
- For extra vegetables, add fresh spinach or diced zucchini after pressure cooking along with the shrimp.
- If the orzo becomes too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of broth or cream to reach desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
