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Keto Tuscan Shrimp Orzo
Alice

Keto Tuscan Shrimp Orzo Recipe

This Keto Tuscan Shrimp Orzo (Creamy Low-Carb Italian Dinner) delivers rich Italian flavor with a low-carb twist. Creamy, protein-packed, and deeply satisfying, it’s a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian, Keto
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g raw shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1½ cups keto orzo alternative
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ cup cooked chicken or turkey bacon chopped (optional)

Method
 

  1. Gently pat the shrimp dry using paper towels, making sure to remove as much surface moisture as possible. Lightly season both sides with salt and black pepper. Dry, well-seasoned shrimp sear better and develop more flavor instead of steaming in the pan.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is warm and shimmering, arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet immediately and set them aside so they stay tender.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion to the remaining oil and shrimp drippings. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and lightly translucent. Avoid browning, as this keeps the flavor mild and balanced.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 20–30 seconds, just until fragrant. Keep the garlic moving in the pan, watching closely so it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
  5. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any flavorful bits left from cooking the shrimp and onions.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. Stir in the keto orzo alternative and allow it to cook slowly in the sauce, absorbing the flavors while softening to a tender texture.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir gently and cook just until the spinach wilts and the shrimp are heated through, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.
  8. Sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and add the optional chicken or turkey bacon. Stir slowly until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy consistency throughout the dish.
  9. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a pinch more salt or pepper to balance the flavors. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from the heat and serve warm.