Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a delightful dish that balances rich flavors with a touch of freshness. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and hearty orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. The combination of textures and flavors delights the senses and leaves everyone at the table craving more.
Why Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
There are countless reasons to whip up this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich, buttery garlic sauce complements the tender shrimp and gives the orzo a wonderful flavor. Moreover, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less mess and cleanup for you! With a hint of lemon zest and fresh parsley, this dish not only tastes great but also looks vibrant and inviting. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this recipe will surely impress.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
Making Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The key is to cook the shrimp until just pink, ensuring they remain tender and juicy, while the orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and garlic. Follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delightful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Directions:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice and zest, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve warm with optional lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 plate (approximately 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 540
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 960mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is versatile and can be served in various settings. For a casual dinner, serve it straight from the skillet with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a more formal occasion, plate the orzo neatly and arrange the shrimp on top, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley. Pair it with a light salad or some steamed vegetable sides like asparagus or broccoli to complete the meal. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the shrimp beautifully.
How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
If you have leftovers, storing Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they only need a couple of minutes per side to cook through.
- Taste as You Go: Season your dish during cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to fit your personal taste.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use Unsalted Butter: This allows you to control the salt content in the dish better.
Delicious Variations
- Garlic Butter Shrimp with Veggies: Add chopped zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo: Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo: Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving for a richer sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and shrimp separately. Store them in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.
Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or fregola. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl into a “C” shape. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a fantastic dish that captures the essence of comfort food while being quick and simple to prepare. The buttery, garlicky sauce paired with tender shrimp and fluffy orzo makes for a memorable meal that will impress any guest. We encourage you to give this recipe a try! Feel free to share your experiences or variations; we’d love to hear how you enjoy this delightful dish!
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice and zest, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve warm with optional lemon wedges on the side.