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Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo Skillet

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A quick and easy one-pan dinner featuring tender shrimp and creamy orzo in a rich garlic butter sauce, brightened with lemon and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with garlic butter. Toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it starts to turn golden.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Add more broth or water if needed.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and cooked shrimp. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the orzo and shrimp.
  7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp to ensure proper sear. Use fresh garlic for best flavor and avoid burning it. Toast orzo before simmering to add nutty flavor and prevent mushiness. Stir orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking. Add extra broth if orzo is still firm when liquid is absorbed. Optionally add a splash of cream at the end for extra richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, orzo, garlic butter, quick dinner, creamy pasta, one-pan meal, easy recipe, weeknight dinner

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