Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Everyday Cooking

Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with creamy orzo pasta, all infused with rich garlic and buttery flavors.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:46:28.017Z

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo is not just a meal; it's an experience! Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe brings together the best of seafood and pasta.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in rich garlic butter
Creamy orzo that soaks up all the delicious flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings the comfort of home cooking to your dinner table. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, this dish is an ideal choice for busy weeknights. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it a fantastic option for those who want a satisfying meal without the fuss. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, to boost nutrition and flavor. Orzo acts like a canvas that absorbs the garlic butter sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness. This means you can enjoy it as-is or adapt it to suit your personal taste. It's a win-win for both the chef and the diners!

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the large shrimp, which are not only delicious but also a great source of protein. When cooked in garlic butter, they become juicy and tender, elevating the flavor profile of the orzo. The combination of garlic and lemon juice adds depth, creating a bright and zesty finish. Together, these ingredients work harmoniously, making each mouthful a delightful experience.

Using high-quality chicken broth enhances the overall flavor of the dish, delivering richness and umami. Opt for low-sodium options if you prefer more control over the saltiness. And don't forget the final touch: fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the garlic butter. This attention to detail in ingredient selection is what makes Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo truly stand out.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Gather all these ingredients to create a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo!

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Add the cooked orzo and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo!

Follow these steps to create a flavorful and satisfying dish!

Tips for Success

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, be mindful of their cooking time. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, it's time to take them off the heat. This ensures they remain succulent and tender, contributing to the overall success of your Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo.

If you're looking to add a bit of spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the garlic butter. This will give your dish a delightful kick without overpowering the other flavors. Moreover, if you want to make this dish ahead of time, cook the orzo and shrimp separately, then combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo can be served as a standalone dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the orzo beautifully. Alternatively, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any remaining garlic butter sauce on your plate.

For a more festive presentation, serve the dish in individual bowls and sprinkle with extra parsley and lemon zest. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also gives guests a hint of the fresh flavors they can expect. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shape will work well.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta.