This Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a true winner! It’s creamy, buttery, and packed with juicy shrimp, making dinner feel extra special without the fuss.
I love how everything cooks together in one pot, saving me time on cleanup. Plus, the garlic flavor is just too good to resist—it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp are best for this dish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work well too—just make sure they are thawed and dried before cooking. If you’re allergic, try diced chicken breast as a substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over the salt level. If you want a lighter option, use ghee or a plant-based butter. Keep in mind that using salted butter will add a different flavor that might be too strong.
Orzo: This small pasta is perfect for the creamy texture. If you can’t find orzo, try quinoa or couscous as a gluten-free alternative. Reduce cooking time accordingly for those types.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk gives a lovely flavor, although it may slightly alter the taste.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo just right ensures it’s not mushy but tender enough to soak up all the flavors. When adding orzo to the pot, you want to lightly toast it first for a nutty flavor. Follow these steps:
- Add the orzo to the sautéed onions and garlic, toasting it for 1-2 minutes. This enhances its taste.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to get all the flavorful bits.
- Keep the pot covered while it simmers to trap steam. This helps the orzo cook evenly.
- Check for doneness at around 10 minutes; orzo should be al dente (firm to the bite).
These tips and substitutions make the dish adaptable and ensure that every bite is delicious! Enjoy making this easy one-pot meal.
Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful one-pot meal takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious, creamy dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp. Season them with salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, take them out and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Let it melt, then add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring until it is fragrant.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta. Toast it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continually. This step enhances the flavor of the orzo and makes it nutty!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Turn the heat up and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure the orzo is tender and that most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. If you decided to use oregano, add it here too! Mix everything well and season with extra salt and pepper, if needed.
6. Add the Shrimp Back:
Finally, gently return the cooked shrimp back to the pot. Give it a little stir to combine everything and warm the shrimp through again.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve it up with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon juice adds a lovely brightness to the creamy dish. Enjoy your delightful and easy one-pot garlic butter shrimp and orzo dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you can’t find orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous work well. For a gluten-free option, consider quinoa or rice, but keep in mind that the cooking times may vary. Adjust the liquid according to the substitute you choose!
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to revive the creaminess, and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy heat, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh jalapeños for an extra kick!
