Name: One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 lemon, juiced and freshly zested; 6 garlic cloves, minced; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; kosher salt and pepper; 1 cup orzo; 2 ¼ cups chicken stock; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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One-Pot Shrimp Orzo: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Family Dinners

Today, we’re diving into a recipe that screams comfort, flavor, and convenience all rolled into one: the one-pot shrimp orzo. Perfect for those bustling weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want to whip up a dinner that feels like a warm hug.

This dish is not just any meal; it’s a ticket to a delicious escape, ready in under 20 minutes, making your dinner routine a breeze. So, let’s get cooking and turn your kitchen into the heart of joy with this family favorite!

A side view photo capturing garlic butter shrimp served over orzo, highlighting the golden brown shrimp glistening with garlic butter atop a bed of fluffy orzo, garnished with fresh herbs.

One-Pot Shrimp Orzo Ingredients

Grab your grocery list and lets go shopping.

Shrimp: The star of the dish, offering a sweet, succulent bite.
Olive Oil: For sautéing, adds a rich, fruity base.
Butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the dish.
Lemon: Brings a bright, citrusy zing that lifts all the flavors.
Garlic: For that essential punch of aromatic warmth.
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for a spicy kick to balance the flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Orzo: A rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Chicken Stock: Provides the liquid for the orzo to cook in, adding a savory depth.
Fresh Parsley: A fresh, herbaceous finish that adds color and freshness.

For the complete list of ingredients and detailed cooking instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.

Tips and Notes

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on those little beauties; overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery. Just until they’re pink and succulent.
Broth is Key: The chicken stock is a flavor carrier; for an extra depth of taste, choose a good quality stock.
Lemon Love: Don’t skimp on the lemon. It adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness, balancing the dish perfectly.

A skillet on a white background, filled with garlic butter shrimp and orzo, showing succulent shrimp in a rich, golden garlic butter sauce, nestled among creamy orzo pasta, garnished with green herbs, captured from a side angle to emphasize the dish's depth and texture.

FAQ

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a fantastic option for those times when fresh isn’t available or when you’re planning ahead. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. A quick way to do this is by placing the shrimp in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels, and they’re ready to join the party in your skillet.

What to Serve with One-Pot Shrimp Orzo

This dish is a star on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, consider a simple green salad tossed with a lemony vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. And, of course, a glass of white wine or a lemon-infused sparkling water pairs wonderfully, enhancing the flavors and making the meal even more special.

There you have it, folks – a one-pot meal that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Not just because it’s quick and utterly delicious, but because it’s a dish that brings people together, making any ordinary night feel like a celebration.

So, tie on your apron, and let’s make dinner the highlight of your day!

More One Pot Dinners

Close-up of lemon-glazed shrimp and asparagus in a skillet, hinting at a quick and delicious dinner option. — Lemon Butter Shrimp with Asparagus

A delectable red wine-infused lamb shank pot roast, simmered to perfection, offering a savory and indulgent dining experience. — Braised Lamb Shanks

Effortless one-pan meal: Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies with succulent salmon fillets and a mix of roasted carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower. — Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

4 servings

One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Enjoy the flavors of this One-Pot Shrimp Orzo, a delectable meal combining tender shrimp and orzo with herbs, all in one pot for minimal fuss. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's the perfect quick-fix dinner for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

One-Pot Shrimp Orzo Ingredients

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 lemon, juiced and freshly zested
6 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
kosher salt and pepper
1 cup orzo
2 ¼ cups chicken stock
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

How to Make One-Pot Shrimp Orzo

Begin with the Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and butter for 1-2 minutes.
Shrimp Time: Season shrimp with garlic, salt and pepper, cook for 2-3 minutes each side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Garlic and Spice: Add remaining minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Orzo: Add orzo to the skillet, toast for 1 minute. Pour in chicken stock, simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender.
Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet, add lemon juice and parsley.
Serve: Enjoy this dish with a side green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on those little beauties; overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery. Just until they're pink and succulent.

Broth is Key: The chicken stock is a flavor carrier; for an extra depth of taste, choose a good quality stock.

Lemon Love: Don’t skimp on the lemon. It adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness, balancing the dish perfectly.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 360Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 162mgSodium 959mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 22g