If you’re craving a vibrant, comforting meal that comes together quickly and bursts with flavor, you’ve got to try this Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of tender shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all infused with fragrant garlic and herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, using simple ingredients that each bring their own magic to the plate. From the sweetness of the tomatoes to the savory bite of shrimp, every element plays an essential role in creating this hearty and satisfying dish.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined, the star protein that cooks quickly and adds a delicious seafood flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing vegetables, it adds a rich base and helps develop flavor.
- Small onion, finely chopped (1): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that complements every ingredient.
- Can of diced tomatoes, undrained (14.5 oz): Brings vibrant color and juicy acidity that brightens the dish.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 1/2 cups): Adds moisture and savory richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup): A delightful pasta shape that cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavorful liquids.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle herbal touch enhancing the Mediterranean-inspired profile.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat for those who like a little spice.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together perfectly.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): A nutty, salty finish that enriches the dish just before serving.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness for garnish and contrast.
How to Make Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and adding the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until the kitchen is filled with its irresistible aroma. This base builds the foundation of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
Step 2: Add the Liquid Ingredients and Seasonings
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, the chicken broth, dried oregano, and the optional red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Season generously with salt and pepper, then let the mixture come to a gentle simmer right in the pot. This step allows the herbs and spices to mingle and deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Orzo
Pour the orzo pasta into the pot, stirring carefully to submerge it mostly in the tomato broth. It’s important the pasta has enough liquid to cook evenly and absorb those wonderful tastes. This helps create that creamy, luscious texture that makes orzo so comforting.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Base
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Choose the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and program it for 5 minutes at high pressure. Once the timer ends, perform a Quick Release carefully by turning the valve to venting. This quick pressurized cooking softens the orzo beautifully without making it mushy.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp and Finish Cooking
Give the orzo a stir and check for any remaining liquid; if there’s excess, let it absorb for a couple of minutes. Gently fold in the shrimp, then close the lid again without turning on the heat. Use the residual warmth to cook the shrimp for about 5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. This technique keeps the shrimp tender and juicy.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Stir the whole dish to distribute the shrimp evenly, then taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve right away with an optional sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
A simple handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty layer that melts deliciously over the warm orzo. Bright herbs such as basil or parsley bring a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness perfectly, elevating the dish to restaurant-quality in seconds.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also a wonderful choice, perfect for scooping up every last bite of that luscious tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe in hollowed-out tomatoes or mini bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation. You can even toss in a handful of baby spinach or arugula just before serving to add extra color and nutrients without complicating the cooking process.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld even more overnight, making for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner. Just be sure to consume within 2 to 3 days for the best texture and taste.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing the orzo and shrimp mixture in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to consume frozen portions within 1 month because the pasta texture might change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still be fantastic and comforting.
Reheating
When ready to eat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or reheat refrigerated leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry, and stir gently to bring back the creamy consistency without overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in the Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the residual cooking time after pressure cooking to ensure they reach that perfect pink, opaque stage.
What can I substitute for orzo if I don’t have any on hand?
Pasta shapes like small shells, acini di pepe, or even couscous can work as swaps. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to maintain the right texture.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I omit the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes provide just a gentle hint of heat, so it’s completely fine to leave them out if you prefer a milder dish. The rest of the flavors will shine just as brightly without the spice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by omitting the shrimp and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, you can transform this into a flavorful vegetarian tomato and orzo dish. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas to maintain a hearty protein element.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking together in the Instant Pot?
Make sure to stir the orzo well so it’s mostly submerged in liquid before pressure cooking, and avoid overcooking. Using enough broth and giving a good stir right after cooking helps keep the orzo creamy and separated instead of sticky.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Instant Pot Tomato and Shrimp Orzo Recipe enough for anyone who loves a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s ready in just about 25 minutes. It’s an effortless way to bring a taste of sunshine and the sea to your dinner table, and the Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting. Give it a try soon—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it turns into a new favorite!
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: Italian
Description
A quick and flavorful Instant Pot recipe featuring tender shrimp and tomato-infused orzo pasta. This one-pot meal combines sautéed onions and garlic with diced tomatoes, herbs, and shrimp, cooked to perfection using pressure cooking for a comforting and satisfying dish ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Produce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Canned Goods
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
Pantry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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
Dairy
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Add Orzo: Pour in the orzo pasta, stirring to combine and ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to Sealing, and select Manual or Pressure Cook mode. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Quick Release: When cooking is complete, carefully turn the valve to Venting for a quick pressure release. Open the lid and stir the orzo. Allow it to sit for a few minutes if there is excess liquid to absorb.
- Cook the Shrimp: Gently fold the shrimp into the orzo mixture. Close the lid and let the residual heat cook the shrimp for about 5 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Finish and Serve: Stir the dish to combine everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Serve garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease and quicker cooking.
- If you prefer more heat, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Letting the orzo sit after pressure cooking helps absorb any remaining liquid for better texture.
- Residual heat cooking of shrimp avoids overcooking and keeps them tender.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with cooked chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
