This One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a quick, flavorful meal that brings together juicy shrimp, tender orzo pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Bright cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon tie it all together for a refreshing yet comforting dish you can whip up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something both easy and elegant.
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, without browning.
Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
Return shrimp to the skillet, add cherry tomatoes, and cook 2–3 more minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and parsley. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Variation
Swap the shrimp for scallops or chunks of white fish for a different seafood twist.
Stir in a handful of baby spinach or arugula at the end for extra greens.
Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it pescatarian-friendly.
Cooking Notes
Keep a close eye on the orzo as it simmers stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Shrimp cook quickly; remove them once they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference, or omit entirely for a milder dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese for a fresh, restaurant-style presentation.
Tips
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
Toast the orzo for 1–2 minutes in butter before adding broth to deepen the nutty flavor.
Double the recipe if serving a crowd it scales well in a larger skillet.
Prep Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 25 g
Sodium: 640 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What can I substitute for orzo pasta?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous work well as substitutes.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while it cooks, and make sure there’s enough broth to keep it from drying out too quickly.
Conclusion
This One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is the perfect balance of rich, buttery comfort and light, refreshing flavors. Quick to prepare, elegant enough for guests, and simple enough for a weeknight, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
