One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo: The Ultimate Weeknight Recipe
Looking for the perfect one-pot meal to satisfy your cravings in under 30 minutes? This One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a culinary masterpiece that balances creamy richness, zesty brightness, and the savory delight of fresh shrimp. Featuring tender orzo pasta cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth, paired with succulent shrimp and fresh baby spinach, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or in need of a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe comes together effortlessly in one skillet.
Imagine the aroma of garlic butter wafting through your kitchen, paired with the comforting scent of simmering chicken broth and Parmesan. Garlic butter shrimp takes center stage here, perfectly complemented by the creamy orzo and a hint of lemon zest. Every bite delivers a burst of fresh flavors that will instantly transport you to a fine coastal restaurant—without ever leaving your home.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Rich garlic butter paired with zesty lemon and creamy Parmesan flavor.
- Texture: Juicy, tender shrimp mix seamlessly with the velvety creaminess of the orzo pasta.
- Aroma: The heady scent of garlic, butter, and lemon zest fills your kitchen as you cook.
- Visual Appeal: Vibrant green spinach against golden-brown shrimp and creamy, hearty orzo.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques and minimal equipment required.
- Special Equipment: One large skillet or sauté pan is all you need!
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Perfect for beginners or those short on time. Sautéing, simmering, and stirring are the main tasks, making it approachable for all cooks.
- Category: This dish falls under comfort food, weeknight dinners, and elevated pasta recipes.
- Cuisine: Inspired by Mediterranean and Italian flavors, with a contemporary twist.
- Cost: Affordable ingredients like shrimp, orzo, and spinach make this recipe budget-friendly at around $15 for 4 servings.
- Season: Ideal year-round, especially during spring or summer when fresh ingredients like spinach and lemon are abundant.
- Occasion: Works brilliantly for casual family dinners, date nights, or quick lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. The garlic butter shrimp packs bold, savory notes that elevate the entire dish. With minimal prep work, you get a restaurant-quality meal in less than 30 minutes.
Convenience reigns supreme here—everything cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash at the end of your meal. Plus, the ingredients are common pantry staples, making it easy to whip up this dinner even on hectic evenings.
By incorporating nutrient-rich spinach and lean protein like shrimp, this dish is not just comforting but also balanced. Adding lemon juice and zest ensures a bright, fresh finish that keeps the meal light.
Whether you’re enjoying dinner solo or seeking something to impress dinner guests, this dish effortlessly checks all boxes. And thanks to its cost-effective ingredients, you can enjoy gourmet flavor without breaking the bank.
The Recipe
One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Microplane/zester for lemon zest
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil. Once melted and sizzling, add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add orzo to the skillet, stirring for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid has been absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and add baby spinach. Cook for 2 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Cook for 2 more minutes to heat shrimp through. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- For added spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- If you prefer dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Join the Conversation
We want to hear from you! Have you tried this One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo recipe? Share your variations, tips, or even photos on social media using the hashtag #GarlicButterShrimp. Don’t forget to drop a comment below with your thoughts! Your feedback inspires others to get cooking in the kitchen.
