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One-Pan Lemon Butter Shrimp Orzo Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 117 reviews
  • Author: lilan
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This one-pan lemon butter shrimp orzo is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender shrimp cooked in a rich lemon butter sauce with creamy orzo pasta. Enhanced by garlic, shallots, and a hint of Old Bay seasoning, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 lb. (26/30) large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
  • 2 tsp. Old Bay seasoning

Aromatics and Liquids

  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

Pasta and Finishing Ingredients

  • 8 oz. dried orzo
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 lemon, zested, plus 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp: In a large stainless steel skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Pat the shrimp dry and season all over with Old Bay seasoning. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook, turning once halfway through, until they turn translucent, about 1 minute per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and transfer to a plate.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and cook, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook while stirring until the wine is nearly evaporated, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Simmer Broth and Cook Orzo: Stir in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Add the orzo and return to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, until the orzo has absorbed most of the broth and is nearly tender, about 8 to 9 minutes.
  5. Add Cream and Shrimp: Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce is slightly thickened and reduced, about 2 to 3 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet.
  6. Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Season the dish with kosher salt to taste. Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Notes

  • Use large shrimp (26/30 count per pound) for best texture and flavor balance.
  • If you don’t have Old Bay seasoning, substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper.
  • For a richer flavor, you may substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth.
  • Make sure to stir frequently during orzo cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
  • Serve immediately for best texture as orzo can thicken and absorb liquid on standing.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: lemon butter shrimp orzo, one pan shrimp recipe, creamy shrimp pasta, quick shrimp dinner, easy stovetop shrimp meal

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Find it online: https://cooklilan.com/one-pan-lemon-butter-shrimp-orzo-recipe/