Name: One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp And Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup orzo; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced (for orzo); 2 1/4 cups chicken stock; 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Lemon wedges, for serving

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Short Description

One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a flavorful, comforting meal made with tender shrimp, toasty orzo pasta, and a rich garlic-butter base. Brightened with fresh lemon and parsley, it’s a quick and satisfying dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pot wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in the same pan.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in less than half an hour.
Rich and flavorful: Garlic, butter, and lemon create a bright yet indulgent taste.
Protein-packed: Shrimp provides lean protein while keeping the dish light.
Elegant but simple: Ideal for both casual dinners and entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 cup orzo
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced (for orzo)
2¼ cups chicken stock
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

Marinate shrimp: In a large bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes.
Toast orzo: In a large skillet (about 12 inches), melt butter over medium heat. Add orzo and cook, stirring often, until lightly golden and toasty. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Cook orzo: Pour in chicken stock, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 12–15 minutes, until the orzo has absorbed the liquid and is tender.
Add shrimp: Stir shrimp into the orzo. Cover and cook 5–8 minutes, until shrimp are pink, opaque, and fully cooked.
Finish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and add a spritz of lemon. For extra richness, stir in 1–2 tablespoons melted butter (optional). Serve immediately.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
Herb twist: Use fresh dill or basil instead of parsley.
Vegetable boost: Stir in spinach, asparagus, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Seafood mix: Add scallops or chunks of firm white fish alongside shrimp.
Citrus variation: Try lime instead of lemon for a tropical flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen if needed. Avoid overcooking shrimp.
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp and orzo can become mushy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes—thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

Can I Use Vegetable Stock Instead Of Chicken Stock?

Yes—vegetable stock works well for a lighter flavor.

How Do I Prevent Overcooking Shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.

Can I Use Rice Instead Of Orzo?

Yes, but adjust liquid and cooking time according to rice variety.

What Size Shrimp Works Best?

Medium to large shrimp are ideal for even cooking and easy eating.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Yes—use olive oil instead of butter.

Is Orzo Gluten-Free?

Traditional orzo contains wheat; use gluten-free orzo if needed.

Can I Add Wine To The Recipe?

Yes—replace ¼ cup of the broth with white wine for depth of flavor.

Can I Make It Ahead?

Best served fresh, but you can cook the orzo ahead and add shrimp just before serving.

What Side Dish Pairs Best?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.

Conclusion

One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a quick, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Combining buttery, garlicky orzo with juicy shrimp, fresh lemon, and herbs, it’s a comforting yet elegant dish you’ll want to make on repeat.

Maggie