Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo recipe is a quick dinner idea that feels luxurious yet only takes 30 minutes from start to finish. Juicy shrimp are pan-seared in garlic butter and tossed with creamy, lemony orzo pasta for a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or easy food ideas that feel special. Whether you’re hunting for healthy seafood dinners, easy recipes with shrimp, or quick and comforting meals, this dish has it all. It’s packed with flavor, easy to customize, and guaranteed to become one of your favorite weeknight dinner ideas.
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and golden. Remove from skillet.
3. Lower the heat and melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the orzo and lightly toast for 1–2 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Return shrimp to skillet, add lemon juice, and toss gently to combine.
7. Cook for 2 more minutes to heat through.
8. Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use raw shrimp instead of pre-cooked to avoid rubbery texture.
Stir orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
Add a splash of extra broth when reheating leftovers to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx.)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: garlic shrimp pasta, orzo dinner, one pan shrimp, easy seafood dinner, weeknight meal