Greek Marry Me Shrimp with Creamy Feta, Spinach & Orzo

Juicy shrimp in a creamy feta sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and lemon!

This Greek-inspired Marry Me Shrimp features juicy shrimp simmered in a creamy feta sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, lemon, and tender baby spinach. A beautiful mound of buttery orzo sits in the center of the skillet, surrounded by shrimp and plenty of Mediterranean-inspired sauce. It’s an elegant one-pan meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet beautiful enough for entertaining.

We’re all looking for quick and easy weeknight meals, and this one comes together in about 30 minutes and is packed with flavor. The luscious, creamy sauce is rich with feta and Parmesan, balanced by bright lemon, sweet-tangy sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach. It pairs perfectly with the tender orzo and juicy, plump shrimp. The recipe moves quickly, so prep everything before you start, and you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Marry Me Shrimp

Juicy, tender savory shrimp

Rich, creamy, garlicky

Herby, tangy feta cheese sauce

Sweet-tangy sun-dried tomatoes

Tender wilted spinach

Buttery, tender orzo

Beautiful & perfect for

Weeknights or entertaining

What do I need for the orzo?

Orzo cooks until tender and creates the buttery centerpiece for the creamy shrimp. You can substitute rice, cauliflower rice, linguini, or your favorite pasta. But you may not be able to resist this orzo once you try it.  

Salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, so you don’t have to oversalt it at the end.

Extra-virgin olive oil or butter keeps the orzo from sticking while adding richness.

Fresh parsley or dill adds an optional pop of fresh herby flavor and color.

What do I need for the shrimp?

Large or jumbo shrimp become tender and juicy with a lightly golden exterior and make a beautiful presentation around the orzo.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the shrimp’s naturally sweet, delicate flavor.

Dried oregano adds the best earthy Mediterranean herb flavor.

Sweet paprika adds warm flavor and beautiful color to the shrimp.

Crushed red pepper flakes bring an optional touch of heat that balances the creamy sauce, but I highly recommend it.

Olive oil helps the shrimp sear until lightly golden while adding richness to the skillet.

What’s in the creamy feta sauce?

Onion softens into the sauce, adding subtle sweetness and savory depth.

Garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor to the creamy sauce.

Sun-dried tomatoes add concentrated tomato flavor with a sweet, tangy, chewy bite. I love these, so I add quite a bit more than the recipe calls for. Use the amount you like.

Chicken, seafood, or vegetable broth adds savory flavor while loosening the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Heavy cream creates the sauce’s rich, velvety-smooth base. If you want a lighter sauce, substitute half & half.

Feta cheese adds creamy, salty tang and unmistakable Greek flavor. My favorite is sheep’s milk feta.

Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding savory richness and helping it thicken.

Dried thyme adds warm, earthy, herby notes that complement the shrimp and creamy cheeses.

Lemon zest adds fresh citrus aroma and brightness without thinning the sauce.

Fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness with a bright, tangy finish.

Baby spinach wilts into the sauce, adding tender texture and beautiful color.

What will I need to garnish and serve? For Garnish & Serving?

Fresh parsley or dill adds a fresh herby finish and pop of green.

Extra feta cheese adds optional creamy, tangy bites over the finished skillet.

Lemon wedges add an extra burst of fresh citrus at the table.

Do I cook the orzo al dente?

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo well and toss it with the olive oil or butter. Stir in the parsley or dill, if desired. Cover and set aside while preparing the shrimp.

How do I season the shrimp?

Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes.

What’s the best way to cook the shrimp?

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until lightly golden and almost cooked through. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Transfer the shrimp to a plate. Don’t cook them completely at this stage, because they will finish cooking in the sauce.

**Dimitra’s tip:** Shrimp cook very quickly. Searing them only until lightly golden and removing them from the skillet helps prevent overcooking, which can make shrimp tough and rubbery. They will finish cooking when returned to the sauce.

How do I make the creamy feta sauce?

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion to the same skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and broth. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release all the flavorful browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes.

What makes the sauce creamy?

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, feta, Parmesan, thyme, and lemon zest. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses melt into the sauce and it begins to thicken. Do not allow the sauce to boil rapidly. Add the baby spinach and gently stir until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.

When do I add the shrimp back to the sauce?

Return the shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Simmer gently for another 1–2 minutes, just until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Taste the sauce and add additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.

How do I create the orzo mound?

For the prettiest presentation, use a small soup, cereal, or rice bowl with a rounded bottom. Lightly grease the inside with olive oil, firmly pack the warm orzo into the bowl, and invert it directly into the center of the skillet. Gently lift the bowl away.

Avoid mixing too much sauce into the orzo beforehand—the drier, lightly buttered orzo will hold its shape better. Guests can spoon the creamy sauce over it when serving.

How do I garnish and serve Greek Marry Me Shrimp?

Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, extra crumbled feta, and a little freshly grated lemon zest. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

How do I choose the shrimp?

Large or jumbo shrimp create the most elegant presentation. Shrimp with the tails left on look beautiful in the skillet, but fully peeled shrimp are easier to eat.

Does the sauce thicken?

The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick, stir in a splash of broth or heavy cream. If it seems too thin, allow it to simmer gently for another minute before returning the shrimp.

Can I make this ahead for hosting?

Prepare the orzo and creamy sauce a few hours ahead and refrigerate them separately. Gently reheat the sauce, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed. Cook the shrimp and wilt the spinach shortly before serving, then shape the warmed orzo in the center of the skillet.

What’s the best way to serve Greek “Marry Me” Shrimp?

Serve this skillet directly at the table with warm pita, toasted garlic bread, or crusty bread for soaking up the creamy feta sauce. A simple Greek salad or roasted asparagus would make a fresh side dish.

Can I make this low-carb?

Yes! Omit the orzo and serve the “marry me” shrimp with cauliflower rice, a side salad, or your favorite veggies.

Do you have other similar “Marry Me” dishes?

Roasted Whole Chicken in Creamy Marry Me Sauce

Greek “Marry Me” Chicken with Creamy Feta & Spinach

Salmon In A Creamy Spinach & Feta Sauce

Chicken In A Creamy Spinach & Feta Sauce 30 Minute Meal

Shrimp In A Roasted Red Pepper Creamy Sauce

30 Minute Meal: Creamy Chicken with Spinach & Feta

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