shrimp orzo recipe

Name: Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp; 1 cup Orzo pasta; 0.5 cup Chopped onion; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 cup Chicken broth; 0.25 cup Lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper; 0.25 cup Chopped fresh parsley

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By: Maria
Posted: 08/03/2025

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a secret weapon.What is the best shrimp orzois seriously the weeknight dinner champion of my house. Imagine the comforting deliciousness of mac and cheese, but leveled up with succulent shrimp, bright yellow and crispy. Lemon, garlic, and a touch of lemon. Is it that good? Is it easier to throw together than it is to eat? What is a pasta salad?

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What is shrimp orzo?

What exactly is a “smart” word?What is the best shrimp orzoWhat is a seafood-based version of your favorite pasta? Orzo is a type of pasta that looks like large grains of rice, and it soaks up flavor like nobody’s. We’re talking plump, juicy shrimp nestled amongst perfectly cooked orzo, all swimming in a luscious, tender pool. What’s a creamy sauce that is zesty, garlicky, and utterly addictive? What is essentially a complete meal in one bowl, packed with protein and comforting carbs? Is it a perfect marriage of simple ingredients that creates something truly special?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some of the reasons why this is so?What is the best shrimp orzoWhat are the essentials in my kitchen?

The Flavor:Oh my goodness, the flavor! We’re talking a symphony of tastes here. The sweetness of the shrimp, the tang of lemon, and the garlic, all the flavors of cream all come together. What is the best way to dance in perfect harmony? Is there a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting, which is quite the feat?
The Simplicity:What are some of the most delicious recipes? What is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you can have it on the table in 30 minutes? I just don’t have the energy to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Cost-EfficiencyCan you make a shrimp dish? If so, why? And because the orzo is so filling, a little goes way. Is it a good meal that won’t break the bank? What is the difference between takeout and eating out?
The Versatility: This What is the best shrimp orzoIs incredibly versatile. You can serve it hot, cold, or at room temperature? What are some good side dishes to serve with a main course? And you can easily customize it with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to suit your own taste. I’ve even added a pinch of red pepper flakes for some kick – delicious!

What I love about this recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. My kids devour it, my husband raves about it and it’s always a hit when I serve it to guests. Is it a guaranteed win every time?

How do you make shrimp orzo?

Quick Overview

Making this What is the best shrimp orzoIs it as easy as 1-2-3? While the pasta is cooking, you’ll sauté the shrimp with garlic and lemon, creating a fragrant and flavorful sauce. What a flavorful What’s the best way to make a creamy sauce? What are some of the best recipes to make your own?

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Aromatics: For a delicious shrimp and

I always buy wild-caught shrimp. I love it!
2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 tablespoon of salt.
4 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on the garlic)
What is the best dry white wine for chicken broth?
1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed.
1 teaspoon lemon zest per lemon.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

What is the recipe for Orzo and Creamy Sauce?

1 cup orzo pasta per person.
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth) per person.
1/2 cup heavy cream (you can use half-and-half for a lighter version)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving.
2 tablespoons butter. 1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.

How do I follow step

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to spout. Drain. Add orzo and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. How do you drain the orzo well and set aside. Don’t overcook it – slightly firm is perfect!

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic is a bad flavor.

Step 3: Add Shrimp and Wine (or Broth)

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. If using, pour in the white wine (or a splash of chicken broth) and let it simmer for 1 minute. What are the best ways to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan? Where’s all the flavor?

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked orzo and Parmesan cheese to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Cover and serve. Toss to combine, ensuring the orzo is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in the butter to add extra richness and shine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table for sprinkling on top. Enjoy!

What to Serve It With

This shrimp orzo recipe is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas for making it a complete meal:

A Simple Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, a vinaigrette, and maybe some cherry tomatoes or cucumber would be the perfect counterpoint to the rich and creamy orzo.
Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love garlic bread? It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans would all be great additions. A little green goes a long way.
A Glass of White Wine: If you’re feeling fancy, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with the shrimp and lemon flavors.

My family loves it with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It’s a simple and satisfying combination that’s always a hit.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp is rubbery and tough. Cook it just until it’s pink and opaque, and it will be perfectly tender and juicy.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t compare to the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon juice. Trust me on this one.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the orzo and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use different herbs, like dill or basil, instead of parsley.
Use Good Quality Parmesan: The parmesan really adds depth to this dish! Splurge a little on the real stuff, it makes a difference.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to watch the shrimp *carefully*. It cooks so quickly, and there’s nothing worse than overcooked shrimp!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This shrimp orzo recipe is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

Cool Completely: Before storing, allow the orzo to cool completely. This will help prevent it from becoming soggy.
Store in an Airtight Container: Store the orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat Gently: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the orzo and microwave it on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat.
Don’t Overheat: Overheating the orzo can cause the sauce to separate and become oily. Heat it gently and just until it’s warmed through.

I find that adding a little extra Parmesan cheese when reheating helps to revive the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them brown nicely in the skillet.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, peas, asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, and bell peppers are all great additions. Get creative and use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic. You can also use a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the orzo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. You can also sauté the shrimp and prepare the sauce in advance. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything and heat through.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to shrimp orzo recipe! It’s a flavor-packed, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for any occasion. From a quick weeknight dinner to a more elaborate gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy sauce, the tender shrimp, and the perfectly cooked orzo all come together to create a truly unforgettable meal. It’s truly one of those recipes that has it all: it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious.

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes! And I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Happy cooking!

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Shrimp Orzo Recipe

A delicious and easy shrimp orzo recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe combines tender shrimp with orzo pasta in a light and flavorful lemon sauce.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes