## Shrimp Orzo Recipe: A Warm One-Pan Treat
This Shrimp Orzo Recipe is a simple, one-pan dish that features succulent garlic butter shrimp and creamy, cheesy orzo that’s infused with inviting flavors. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, it pairs wonderfully with a piece of [homemade garlic bread](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/homemade-garlic-bread/) to enhance the dining experience.
### Holly’s Recipe Highlights
– **Flavor**: Decadent, garlicky, and buttery with tender shrimp, creamy Parmesan orzo, and sweet peas.
– **Why Make It**: This one-pan dish offers warmth and taste without much hassle or cleanup, making it a fast and comforting weeknight option.
– **Recommended Tools**: A large nonstick or stainless-steel skillet with a lid, a microplane or fine grater, and an instant-read thermometer to guarantee the shrimp are perfectly cooked.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Serve alongside crusty bread and a [simple green salad](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/cucumber-dill-salad-with-lemon-vinaigrette/).
**Total Time**: Less than 30 Minutes
**Servings**: 4
**Cooking Method**: Skillet
### Ingredient Notes
– **Shrimp**: Large shrimp remain juicy and are less prone to overcooking. Frozen shrimp perform well, but remember to thaw and dry them before cooking.
– **Garlic Butter**: Infuses layers of rich, savory flavor throughout the dish. Store-bought garlic butter can be convenient.
– **Parmesan**: Shred from a block for better melting and flavor.
– **Orzo**: Briefly toasting the orzo gives it a subtle, nutty flavor.
– **White Wine**: Dry white wine enhances the flavor of the sauce; chicken broth can be a suitable replacement.
– **Cream**: Heavy cream provides a rich finish to the sauce; half-and-half can be used for a lighter alternative.
– **Variations**: Incorporate red pepper flakes for some spice, replace peas with broccoli, stir in fresh spinach, or use asparagus for a spring touch.
### Cooking Tips
– Dry the shrimp before cooking to ensure they sear rather than steam.
– Remove shrimp from the skillet as soon as they become pink to avoid overcooking.
– Stir the orzo from time to time to guarantee even cooking and prevent it from sticking.
– Keep a gentle simmer after adding broth to prevent the sauce from separating.
– If the orzo thickens too much, loosen it with a bit of broth or cream.
### Save It for Later
**Leftovers**: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
**Reheating**: Use the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender.
### More Quick Shrimp Dinners
Did you like this Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo Recipe? Feel free to leave a comment and rating below!
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### Recipe Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, and parsley. Set aside.
2. Dry the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of garlic butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until just cooked. Move to a plate and cover to keep warm.
4. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining oil to the skillet. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in onion powder and orzo.
5. Pour in the wine and simmer for 1 minute or until mostly reduced. Add broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Mix in heavy cream, peas (or broccoli), and Parmesan. Cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes until creamy and heated through.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet along with any juices and gently stir to combine. Remove from heat and top with the remaining garlic butter. Cover and let rest for 3 minutes to melt.
8. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve.
### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 735
– **Carbohydrates**: 51g
– **Protein**: 30g
– **Fat**: 44g
– **Saturated Fat**: 23g
– **Cholesterol**: 243mg
– **Sodium**: 1869mg
– **Potassium**: 422mg
– **Fiber**: 3g
– **Sugar**: 4g
*Nutrition information is an estimate and may