Description
One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a creamy, garlicky, and comforting dish made with tender shrimp, buttery orzo pasta, and fresh herbs—all cooked in a single pan. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter and olive oil over medium heat. Cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining butter. Sauté onion or shallot for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add dry orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and cooked shrimp. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with chopped herbs and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve warm.
Notes
- Add spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture.
- Use scallops or chicken instead of shrimp for variation.
- For added richness, stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese.
- Make it dairy-free by omitting cheese and using olive oil instead of butter.
- Reheat with a splash of broth to loosen the orzo.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
