Garlic Butter Shrimp With Orzo

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp With Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz orzo pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Wellness Meals

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp With Orzo when I want a quick yet impressive meal. The combination of succulent shrimp perfectly sautéed in garlic butter, paired with the creamy orzo, creates a dish that feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is not only delicious, but it's also uncomplicated, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that will wow your family or guests.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:45:37.836Z

When I first made Garlic Butter Shrimp With Orzo, I was surprised by how quickly everything came together. The key to achieving that uncontested flavor lies in using freshly minced garlic and high-quality shrimp. I learned that sautéing the shrimp just until they turn pink makes all the difference — they remain juicy and tender instead of chewy.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a date night in. I served it alongside a light salad, and I loved how the richness of the garlic butter complemented the freshness of the salad greens. It’s a delightful combination that I can't get enough of!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic butter flavor that coats every bite of shrimp and orzo
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Impressive enough for entertaining guests with minimal effort

Perfecting the Sauté

The key to perfectly sautéed shrimp lies in the heat level and timing. I recommend using medium heat, which ensures that the shrimp cook evenly without becoming rubbery. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side; they should turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the skillet as this can cause steaming rather than sautéing, leading to a less desirable texture.

Seasoning the shrimp properly is essential for flavor enhancement. Start with a generous pinch of salt and fresh ground pepper right after adding them to the skillet. This initial seasoning layer helps deepen the flavor profile as the shrimp cook. For extra warmth, consider sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt.

Orzo: The Creamy Component

Orzo is a pasta that mimics rice in shape and texture, making it an excellent base for this dish. Cooking it until al dente is crucial—aim for a firm bite without being mushy. Following package instructions typically works, but always taste it a minute before time is up. After draining, consider tossing the orzo with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking while you finish the shrimp.

If you’d like to make this dish creamy without adding heavy cream, try incorporating a splash of pasta cooking water after adding the orzo. The starch in the water helps bind the dish and gives a silky consistency, enhancing the overall richness of the garlic butter sauce.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Garnishing is the final touch that elevates your dish. Chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the butter sauce. Serve this dish immediately after garnishing to keep the shrimp tender and the orzo warm. A sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest on top can also brighten the flavors even further.

For a more complete meal, consider pairing your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Orzo with a side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish's richness, while garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover buttery sauce. This flexibility in serving will impress your guests while keeping the preparation straightforward.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

8 oz orzo pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to make Garlic Butter Shrimp With Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip them and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Add Garlic and Lemon

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining butter, mixing well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.

Combine with Orzo

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing everything together until well-combined. Cook for an additional minute to heat through, adjusting seasoning if necessary.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't have shrimp on hand? You can substitute with scallops or even cooked chicken for different textures and flavors. Just be mindful of the cooking times; scallops should be cooked for about 2 minutes per side, while pre-cooked chicken needs only to be heated through.

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, swap regular orzo with a gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta like quinoa or rice. Cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for doneness as you approach the end of the cooking time.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance for a quicker meal. Simply sauté the garlic in butter and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the sauce on low heat and toss in the shrimp and orzo to combine. This can cut your meal prep time significantly, making weeknight dinners even easier.

While the dish is best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out the shrimp and orzo. Use low heat to gently warm them through without overcooking the shrimp.

Flavor Variations

If you're in the mood for a change, consider adding a handful of baby spinach or kale at the same time as the orzo. The greens will wilt nicely in the residual heat, adding a nutrient boost without compromising the flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or dill for a unique twist.

For an extra kick, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or a spoonful of pesto while mixing the orzo with the shrimp. This adds depth of flavor and a pop of color to your dish, making it even more appealing for serving guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture.

→ What if I can't find orzo?

You can substitute orzo with any small pasta like couscous or ditalini.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers would be great additions.