Some nights call for a meal that feels special but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen. That’s exactly where this shrimp orzo recipe comes in. It’s a creamy, garlicky, lemon-kissed dish that comes together in one pot and under 30 minutes, without sacrificing depth of flavor.
I first made this dish after a beach trip, when I came home with a pound of fresh shrimp and a pantry that begged for inspiration. Orzo, with its rice-like shape and quick cooking time, proved to be the perfect partner for plump, juicy shrimp. Add a touch of cream, a handful of fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice, and you’ve got a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but fits your Tuesday night schedule.
This shrimp orzo recipe is my go-to when I want something satisfying yet light, and it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re hosting dinner guests or looking for a new family favorite, this recipe fits beautifully into any lineup.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Let’s talk about what makes this shrimp orzo recipe shine. First, the one-pot technique means easy cleanup and deep flavor, as everything cooks together to create a cohesive, delicious meal. The orzo absorbs the broth and seasoning beautifully, resulting in a creamy texture without relying heavily on cream or butter.
The shrimp cook quickly and add a delicate brininess that balances perfectly with the citrus and herbs. I love to finish it off with a bit of grated Parmesan and lemon zest for extra richness and zing.
What sets this apart from other shrimp pasta recipes is the use of orzo. It gives the dish a silky, almost risotto-like quality without all the stirring. Plus, orzo cooks faster than traditional pasta, making this ideal for busy weeknights.
Customization options:
- Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan and cream, and use full-fat coconut milk or a splash of olive oil instead.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular orzo with a gluten-free pasta that mimics the small rice shape, or try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give the dish a gentle heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep, this shrimp orzo recipe becomes a flavorful, foolproof dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Recipe Card
Shrimp Orzo Recipe
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes430
kcalThis shrimp orzo recipe combines tender shrimp, flavorful herbs, and creamy orzo in a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious.
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Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Orzo
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, chopped
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the shrimp with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Orzo
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and softened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo, allowing it to toast slightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Add the broth, bring to a boil, and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
- Combine and Finish
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes, spinach, lemon juice, zest, and Parmesan.
- Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting red pepper flakes.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a pescatarian-friendly option.
- Ensure the shrimp is not overcooked to maintain its tender texture.
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Health Benefits of Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Shrimp Orzo is a delicious and nutrient-packed dish that brings together the goodness of seafood and wholesome grains. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, containing essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function. Additionally, shrimp provides significant amounts of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage, as well as vitamin B12 and zinc, essential for energy production and immune health.
Orzo, a small pasta resembling rice, offers a good dose of carbohydrates for sustained energy. Opting for whole-grain orzo adds dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. When combined with vegetables, olive oil, or herbs, this dish becomes a balanced meal rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it both flavorful and nutritious.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Orzo
- Toast the Orzo: Toasting the orzo before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and adds depth to the dish.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp to maximize flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp works but ensure it’s thawed properly.
- Balance the Acidity: The lemon juice adds brightness; adjust to taste to complement the creaminess of the orzo.
- Cook to Perfection: Watch the orzo closely while cooking, it should be tender but not mushy.
- Add Seasonal Veggies: Customize with zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers for a seasonal twist.
Delicious Variants to Try Next
1. Spicy Shrimp Orzo with Chili Oil
If you love a bit of heat, drizzle your finished dish with homemade chili oil or stir in some harissa paste. Pairing the subtle sweetness of shrimp with a spicy kick makes the flavor pop even more. Finish with scallions for a fresh crunch.
2. Shrimp Orzo with Feta and Olives
For a Mediterranean flair, stir in crumbled feta, kalamata olives, and a handful of cherry tomatoes. This version adds saltiness, tang, and a touch of sweetness that makes it feel like a Greek island vacation in a bowl.
3. Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Orzo
Add two generous handfuls of fresh baby spinach toward the end of cooking and a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half. The spinach wilts gently into the orzo, and the cream enhances the richness. This variation feels luxurious but remains weeknight-friendly.
4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
Dial up the citrus and garlic by doubling the lemon juice and zest and adding an extra clove of garlic. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of black pepper. This bright and zesty version is perfect for spring and summer evenings.
FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.
Pearl couscous or small pasta like ditalini can be used as substitutes.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a bit of broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency.
Yes, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with a gluten-free rice alternative.
Give This Shrimp Orzo Recipe a Try Tonight
There’s something magical about how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and crave-worthy. This shrimp orzo recipe is a perfect example quick, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a cozy weeknight dinner, a date-night dish, or an easy crowd-pleaser, it always delivers.
What I love most is how the flavors balance: the citrusy brightness of lemon, the tender bite of shrimp, and the creamy orzo that holds everything together. It’s the kind of meal that feels satisfying without being heavy and elegant without requiring much effort.
Looking for another quick and flavorful meal? Check out our New Orleans Shrimp and Grits and Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Recipe for classic Italian-inspired dish!
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