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Hey foodies! Check it this absolutely delicious orzo recipe that can be mad in under 30-minutes! This Shrimp Scampi Orzo is super quick and easy to make.
This shrimp orzo recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just dipping your toes into the kitchen, this dish is about to get on your weekly rotation list.
Table of Contents
Let’s Talk Ingredients
Shrimp: Picture-perfect shrimp, the real heroes of our dish! Because this dish is pretty simple, you will want to go with some large or jumbo shrimp. I mean they are the star of the dish.
Garlic: No meal is complete without some garlic in my opinion. Minced garlic adds some aromatics and that zesty kick we all love.
Garlic and Herb Butter: Elevate your flavors with this pre-made magic butter, giving the shrimp an extra dose of richness and savory goodness. I used Land O Lakes Garlic and Herb Butter Spread to give my shrimp scampi orzo some extra flavor.
Orzo: This cute rice-like pasta is perfect for soaking up all the flavors while giving a delightful bite. It is one of my latest obsessions, so you might be getting a lot of orzo recipes dropping soon. I recommend toasting the orzo to give it more of a dynamic flavor.
White Wine: Splash in a bit of white wine for that subtle tang that takes this dish to a whole new level. Opt for a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio for that perfect touch. If you are a budget like me, then you simple white cooking wine will do.
Lemon Juice: A zesty squeeze of lemon brings that refreshing tang, balancing out the richness of the shrimp and butter.
Chicken Broth: Creating a flavorsome base for the orzo, chicken broth adds that depth we all crave. I highly recommend cooking your orzo in the chicken broth rather than boiling it in water and then draining it. Using the chicken broth allows for the pasta to soak up that flavor.
Spinach: Add a pop of color and a hint of earthiness with some vibrant, nutrient-packed spinach.
Parmesan: Parmesan cheese ties everything together, giving that creamy, cheesy finish we all adore.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for that subtle heat.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch, making the dish visually appealing while infusing a refreshing herbal note.
Salt, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper: Essential flavor boosters that bring the whole dish together.
Feel free to personalize your dish with any additional ingredients you love!
When I first started making Shrimp Scampi, I always used a traditional spaghetti or fettucine noodle. Experimenting is what lead me to discovering this shrimp scampi orzo recipe, so give it a try.
A Peek into Shrimp Scampi’s Roots
Originally from Italy, “scampi” referred to a type of crustacean. Over time, the dish transitioned in the United States to feature shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, often served over pasta. And voilà, variations like the Shrimp Scampi Orzo came into existence, adding a delicious twist to the traditional preparation.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Orzo
Let’s get cooking and bring all those delicious flavors together! Follow these steps:
- Season the Shrimp: Start by seasoning your shrimp with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Adjust the measurements to your taste preferences. This is where you can really tailor the dish to suit your flavor preferences!
- Prepare the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt some garlic and herb butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and fragrant, it’s time to add in the shrimp, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Cook until the shrimp turns that pretty pink color, then remove them from the pan and set aside for later.
- Toast the Orzo: Now, in that same flavorful pan, add your orzo and white wine. Toast the orzo in the wine for 2-3 minutes or until it gets a nice golden color. This step adds a depth of flavor that takes the dish to the next level!
- Cook the Orzo: Once your orzo is nicely toasted, pour in your chicken broth. Bring the broth to a boil, cover, and then reduce the heat. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, making sure to mix occasionally so it doesn’t get stuck to the pan.
- Add the Finishing Touches: In the last 2 minutes of your orzo cooking time, add in your spinach and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine all the flavors and ingredients. This adds a fresh, vibrant element to the dish that’s simply irresistible!
- Garnish and Serve: When everything is done cooking, it’s time to plate up your masterpiece. Top the shrimp scampi orzo with more Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.
This meal is absolutely perfect for those busy weeknights because it is all cooked in one pan. One pan meals can really help you save time in the kitchen. Check out this article on One Pan Meals: Easy Cooking Tips for Minimal Cleanup.
Pro Tips for Creating Culinary Magic
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on those shrimp! Cook them just until they turn that beautiful pink and opaque to avoid the rubbery texture. Make sure to remove your shrimp from the pot before you start cooking your orzo.
- Taste and Adjust: Season as you go. Feel free to tweak the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or any seasoning to match your taste buds perfectly. I personally like a good amount of heat so you may want to reduce the red pepper flakes to adjust it to your preference.
- Garnish to Impress: Don’t forget the finishing touches! Sprinkle on some fresh parsley and parmesan for that extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Now that our Shrimp Scampi Orzo is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few serving suggestions to take your dish to the next level:
- Presentation Matters: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Pairing Perfection: Serve with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the flavors.
- Garnish: A lemon wedge or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a finishing touch of elegance.
If you are going for a date night vibe. Dim the lights, light a candle, and play some music in the background to set the mood. You could also set the table with some fresh flowers to really pull everything together.
Budget Friendly Tips: Making Every Penny Count
Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic: saving money! Here are some budget-friendly tips to keep in mind:
- Choose Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp are often more budget-friendly than fresh, and they’re just as tasty once cooked.
- Shop in Bulk: Buying ingredients like pasta and spices in bulk can save you money in the long run.
- Use What You Have: Don’t be afraid to get creative and use whatever ingredients you have on hand to make this dish your own.
Enjoy your Shrimp Scampi Orzo!
And there you have it, ladies! The Ultimate Shrimp Scampi Orzo recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. I hope you give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make the recipe your own. Until next time, happy cooking, and bon appétit!
If you’re interested in more one pot recipes, check these out:
Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz Shrimp Large or Jumbo
- 1 cup Orzo
- 1 tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 tbsp Garlic and Herb Butter
- ⅓ cup White Wine
- ½ Lemon juiced
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 2 cups Spinach
- ⅓ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- Parsley garnish
Seasonings
- ¼ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
- ¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Season your shrimp with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Make sure to adjust the measurements to your taste.
- In a large skillet, melt the garlic and herb butter and medium heat.
- Once you butter is melted, add in your shrimp, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Cook until the shrimp turns that pretty pink color, then remove from the pan.
- In that same pan, add your orzo and white wine to the pan. Toast your orzo in the wine for 2-3 minutes or until your orzo gets a nice golden color.
- Once your orzo is toasted, pour in your chicken broth. Bring the broth to a boil, cover, and then reduce the heat. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Make sure to mix occasionally so it doesn't get stuck to the pan.
- Add in your spinach and parmesan cheese in the last 2 minutes of your orzo cooking time. Mix well to combine the flavors and ingredients.
- When everything is done, top with more parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and a little bit of parsley for garnish.
