Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! When I’m looking for a dinner that feels a little bit fancy but comes together in a flash, my mind immediately goes to seafood. And few combinations are as perfect as succulent shrimp bathed in rich garlic butter, especially when paired with tender orzo pasta. Today, we’re making Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo – a dish that’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly quick, and absolutely perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner party.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo is a true superstar in my kitchen. I love it because it’s exceptionally fast to prepare, often ready in under 30 minutes, which makes it ideal for those evenings when time is tight. The rich, aromatic garlic butter perfectly complements the sweet shrimp, and the orzo soaks up all those delicious flavors, making every bite incredibly satisfying. It’s a fantastic one-pot (or almost one-pot) wonder, minimizing cleanup, and it feels wonderfully light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s easily adaptable and always a crowd-pleaser!

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off, your preference)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc), optional
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Swaps and Notes

• Shrimp: Large shrimp work best as they are less likely to overcook. If using smaller shrimp, reduce cooking time. For a non-seafood option, you could swap with cooked chicken breast, added at the end.
• Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for soaking up the sauce. Any small pasta shape like ditalini or even small shells could work, but orzo is traditional here.
• Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but vegetable broth is a fine substitute.
• White Wine: The dry white wine adds a layer of acidity and depth. If you prefer not to use wine, simply use an additional 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth.
• Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts smoothly and provides the best flavor. Pecorino Romano could be used for a saltier, sharper taste.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley is key for brightness. You can also add fresh dill or chives.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best aroma and flavor.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Prep Shrimp: Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear. Season them lightly with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Cook Shrimp: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink, opaque, and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden (don’t let it burn!).
4. Toast Orzo & Deglaze: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring, until lightly golden. Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1 minute.
5. Cook Orzo: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or according to package directions, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Combine & Finish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cooked shrimp, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together until the sauce is creamy and coats the orzo and shrimp. Add a splash or two of hot water or broth if the mixture seems too dry.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper) as needed. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Dry Shrimp for Best Sear: Always pat your shrimp thoroughly dry before cooking. This ensures a nice sear and prevents them from steaming.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook incredibly fast! Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
• Toast Orzo: Briefly toasting the orzo adds a nutty depth of flavor to the dish.
• Stir Orzo: Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Fresh Lemon & Parsley: These add essential brightness and freshness that cut through the richness of the butter. Don’t skip them!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast.
• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed asparagus or green beans complements the dish beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: The same dry white wine used in the recipe (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc) would be a perfect complement.
• Southern Inspirations: While a different flavor profile, if you enjoy hearty Southern one-pot meals, check out my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage for another quick skillet option.

Storage and Leftover Tips

This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo is best enjoyed fresh. Orzo tends to absorb liquid and become softer over time, and shrimp can become tough when reheated. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the pasta and re-moisten the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the ease and incredible flavor of this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo, and you’re a fan of satisfying, hearty meals, you’ll definitely want to explore some of my other popular recipes:

• For a truly classic and comforting meal, my Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce is a must-try.
• If you’re craving some deep, comforting Southern flavors, my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is an absolute favorite.
• For a fantastic one-pan dinner that’s incredibly convenient and always a hit, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
• And if you’re looking for ultimate comfort food made fast, don’t miss my Instant Pot Lasagna.

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Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo is a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with smart techniques, can create an elegant and incredibly flavorful meal in no time. It’s perfect for when you want something impressive without the fuss. Give it a try – you’ll be amazed at how easily this delicious dish comes together!

What are your favorite quick seafood pasta dishes? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more delicious, easy recipes that elevate your home cooking, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.