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Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo

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A quick and satisfying dinner featuring buttery garlic shrimp and tender orzo pasta, ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp (medium-sized)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta (about 175 g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (about 60 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (475 ml), low sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups (475 ml) of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup (175 g) dry orzo and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 8-9 minutes, until the orzo is tender but still al dente. Drain if any liquid remains and set aside.
  2. Prepare the shrimp: While the orzo cooks, pat 1 pound (450 g) shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
  3. Sauté garlic and shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and foamy. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook 1-2 minutes more until fully opaque and cooked through.
  4. Combine orzo and shrimp: Reduce heat to low. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir gently to combine. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together until the butter melts and coats the orzo and shrimp evenly.
  5. Finish and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use fresh garlic for best flavor and keep heat moderate to avoid burning garlic. For creamier orzo, stir in a splash of cream or grated Parmesan before serving. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, shrimp orzo, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, 15-minute meal, weeknight dinner, garlic shrimp pasta

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