Description
A quick, 20-minute one-pot meal featuring seared shrimp and orzo pasta cooked in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. This dish provides steady energy without the crash, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once butter foams, sear shrimp in a single layer for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the pan. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add dry orzo to the pan and toast in the garlic butter for 1-2 minutes until nutty.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and sauce has thickened. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Stir in cooked shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Remove from heat.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure shrimp are completely dry before searing to prevent steaming. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent orzo from sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more broth or water. For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and butter with olive oil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
Keywords: shrimp orzo, one pot meal, creamy pasta, quick dinner, 20 minute meal, seafood pasta, easy weeknight dinner