One-Pan Garlic-Butter Shrimp With Orzo

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Introduction

One-Pan Garlic-Butter Shrimp with Orzo is the perfect quick and flavorful meal that brings together tender shrimp, a creamy garlic-butter sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta in a single skillet. Infused with lemon, parsley, and a touch of Parmesan, this dish is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner in.

I first made this dish when I was craving something comforting but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy, garlicky shrimp and creamy orzo cooked to perfection was so satisfying, and the fact that it all came together in one pan was a bonus! The bright pop of lemon juice and fresh herbs elevated the flavors, making it feel both indulgent and fresh.

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can swap the shrimp for scallops or chicken, add in spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies, or adjust the seasonings to suit your palate. One-Pan Garlic-Butter Shrimp with Orzo is not only delicious but also easy to clean up—a true win-win in the kitchen!

Perfect for:

  • Busy weeknights
  • Casual family dinners
  • Impressing guests with minimal effort
  • Seafood lovers
  • Meal prep enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why One-Pan Garlic-Butter Shrimp With Orzo will be your new go-to dinner:

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
  • One-Pan Wonder: All ingredients cook together, enhancing the flavors and saving time.
  • Garlic Lover’s Delight: The rich garlic-butter sauce is utterly irresistible.
  • Creamy Orzo Base: The orzo soaks up the savory flavors, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture.
  • Protein-Packed: Shrimp is a lean, nutritious source of protein.
  • Customizable: Add vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
  • Impressive Yet Simple: Elegant enough for guests but easy enough for weeknights.
  • Kid-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish the whole family will love.
  • Pairs Well with Sides: Serve with a crisp salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good reheated the next day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions:

  • 1 cup spinach or kale
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red pepper flakes, for heat

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Provides a sweet, delicate seafood flavor and cooks quickly.
  • Orzo: Acts as a creamy base, absorbing the garlic-butter sauce.
  • Garlic and Butter: A classic duo that delivers rich, aromatic flavor.
  • Lemon: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Enhances creaminess and adds a savory, umami kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Season Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Dish:

  1. Sauté Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add Orzo: Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
  4. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
  5. Combine and Finish: Stir in the Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice. Return the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes to heat through.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Top with parsley and optional red pepper flakes.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for One-Pan Garlic-Butter Shrimp With Orzo:

  • As a Standalone Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty one-pan meal.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • With Crusty Bread: Scoop up the creamy sauce with a warm baguette.
  • Topped with Extra Parmesan: Sprinkle on more cheese for a decadent touch.
  • For a Romantic Dinner: Serve with a glass of white wine for an intimate meal.
  • With Roasted Veggies: Complement the dish with roasted asparagus or zucchini.
  • For Meal Prep: Divide into containers for a ready-to-go lunch.
  • Family-Style Serving: Present in the skillet for a rustic, homey vibe.
  • With Grilled Lemon: Add charred lemon wedges for a smoky, tangy garnish.
  • As a Holiday Dish: Include it in your festive seafood spread.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp if available, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the pan.
  • Toast the Orzo: Before adding liquid, toast the orzo in the pan with a bit of butter or oil for a nuttier flavor.
  • Deglaze the Pan: After sautéing the garlic, splash in a bit of white wine or lemon juice to enhance the dish’s depth of flavor.
  • Control the Garlic Flavor: Mince garlic finely for a robust flavor, or use sliced garlic for a milder taste.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a pop of color and added nutrients.
  • Use Low-Sodium Broth: If using chicken or vegetable broth, go for a low-sodium option to better control the dish’s saltiness.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
  • Season in Layers: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking to ensure the dish is well-balanced.
  • Finish with Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, dill, or basil at the end for a fresh and aromatic touch.
  • Serve with Bread: Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic-butter sauce.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with mushrooms or chickpeas.
  • Tomato-Basil Flavor: Mix in cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
  • Creamier Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone.
  • Seafood Medley: Add scallops or mussels for a luxurious touch.
  • Herb Swap: Use dill or cilantro for a flavor twist.
  • Whole Wheat Orzo: Opt for whole-grain orzo for added fiber.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
  • Citrus Variation: Use lime instead of lemon for a tropical flair.
  • Extra Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, peas, or bell peppers.

Special Equipment

  • Large Nonstick Skillet or Sauté Pan – For even cooking and easy cleanup.
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – To stir the orzo and prevent scratching nonstick surfaces.
  • Fine-Mesh Strainer – To rinse the orzo before cooking, if desired.
  • Microplane or Zester – For grating garlic or zesting lemon.
  • Kitchen Tongs – To flip and handle the shrimp gently without breaking them.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise measurements of broth, spices, and other ingredients.
  • Citrus Juicer – To extract fresh lemon juice with ease.
  • Garlic Press – To quickly mince garlic for the butter sauce.
  • Small Saucepan – Optional, for pre-warming broth or stock.
  • Food Thermometer – To ensure shrimp are cooked perfectly to 120–130°F (51–54°C) for tender results.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, just thaw them before cooking for best results.
  2. What can I substitute for orzo?
    Arborio rice, couscous, or small pasta shapes work well.
  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated with a splash of broth.
  4. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  5. Can I make it dairy-free?
    Use olive oil instead of butter and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
  6. What wine pairs well with this dish?
    A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.
  7. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, use a larger skillet and double the ingredients.
  8. Is it freezer-friendly?
    The shrimp and orzo texture may change after freezing, so it’s not recommended.
  9. What if my orzo sticks to the pan?
    Stir frequently and add a splash more broth if needed.
  10. How do I prevent overcooking the orzo?
    Cook just until al dente and let it finish absorbing liquid off the heat.

Conclusion

One-Pan Garlic-Butter Shrimp with Orzo is a quick and comforting dish that combines juicy shrimp, buttery orzo, and aromatic garlic in a single skillet. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe is simple to prepare but packed with rich, satisfying flavors.

The magic of this recipe is in the creamy orzo, which absorbs the garlicky, buttery goodness as it cooks alongside the shrimp. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley add brightness and balance to the dish. For extra depth, you can stir in Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

I’d love to see your Garlic-Butter Shrimp with Orzo creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your beautiful, flavorful plates. Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me how you made this recipe your own with creative twists or additions!

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