Garlic Butter Orzo with Shrimp and Peas

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Garlic Butter Orzo with Shrimp and Peas

366 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
This Garlic Butter Orzo with Shrimp and Peas is creamy, garlicky, and full of comforting flavors. The tender orzo pasta soaks up a luscious garlic butter sauce, while juicy shrimp and sweet peas add protein and freshness. It’s a one-pan meal that feels elegant but comes together in just 30 minutes!

Nutrition Facts

Calories520 ; fat 22g; Carbohydrates 47g; Protein 30g. Fiber: 4g

Descriptions

Cozy, Creamy & Packed with Flavor!
Think of this as a fancy risotto’s faster, easier cousin. The orzo absorbs all the buttery garlic flavor while the shrimp stay juicy and tender. Bright green peas add color and sweetness for the perfect balance in every bite. Serve with lemon wedges for a zippy finish!

Directions

Step 1

Sauté the Shrimp:

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then add the shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper.
Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.
Remove and set aside.

Step 2

Cook the Orzo:

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté 3–4 cloves minced garlic for 1 minute.
Stir in 1 cup of orzo and toast it for about 2 minutes, until lightly golden and fragrant.
Pour in 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 3

Finish the Dish:

Stir in ½ cup frozen peas and return shrimp to the pan.
Cook 1–2 more minutes until peas are tender and shrimp is warmed through.
Finish with 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp grated parmesan, and an optional splash of cream.
Season to taste and garnish with parsley.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Orzo

✔️ Use raw shrimp for best flavor—pre-cooked can get rubbery.
✔️ Toast the orzo first—it brings a lovely nutty depth.
✔️ Keep stirring frequently to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and develops a creamy texture.✔️ Add a splash of cream or extra broth if it thickens too much..

Creative Variations

🌶️ Spicy – Add red pepper flakes to the garlic-butter for a kick.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Stir in more parmesan or pecorino.
🥬 Add Greens – Toss in baby spinach or arugula before serving.
🍗 Swap It – Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of shrimp.

FAQs

Q: Can I use rice instead of orzo?
Orzo works best for texture, but you could substitute arborio rice and cook it risotto-style.

Q: Is it okay to use cooked frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw and add at the end to warm through.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast.

Q: What type of orzo should I buy?
Regular orzo (not whole wheat or gluten-free) works best for this creamy texture.

Advice for Gifting

Pack in a shallow container with lemon wedges and a small packet of grated cheese. Pair with a side salad for a thoughtful, ready-to-eat dinner gift!

Fun Ways to Serve

🍋 In lemon halves – Hollow out lemon halves and fill with orzo for a fun presentation.
🫓 With garlic naan or toasted pita to scoop!
🥗 As a salad base – Cool it down and add arugula, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette.
🧄 Garlic-forward meal – Serve with garlic-roasted veggies or a garlic aioli drizzle.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Orzo with Shrimp and Peas is everything a cozy dinner should be—simple, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It’s proof that with just a few ingredients and one pan, you can whip up a gourmet-style meal in under 30 minutes!

📸 Tried this recipe? Snap a pic and tag it with #GarlicButterOrzo for a chance to be featured!
👉 What’s your favorite one-pan dinner? Tell us in the comments!