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Shrimp Scampi with Orzo dish featuring succulent shrimp and creamy pasta

Shrimp Scampi with Orzo

A vibrant and flavorful shrimp scampi with orzo, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Seafood
  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Pasta
  • 1 cup dry orzo
Fats
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 4 tbsp butter (divided)
Aromatics
  • 5 cloves garlic (thinly sliced or minced)
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced, plus wedges for serving)
Liquids
  • 0.33 cup dry white wine (optional) Can be omitted.
  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus more as needed)
Seasonings
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust for spice preference.
Herbs and Cheese
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Shrimp
  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear shrimp for 45–60 seconds per side until just pink at the edges. Transfer shrimp to a plate.
Cooking Orzo
  1. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring often.
  3. If using, add white wine and simmer for 30 seconds. Pour in broth and add lemon zest. Simmer and stir every minute until orzo is al dente, about 10–12 minutes.
Combine and Serve
  1. Return shrimp to the skillet for 1–2 minutes to warm through.
  2. Remove from heat and swirl in remaining 2 tbsp butter until glossy.
  3. Stir in parsley and finish with lemon juice to taste. Serve hot with lemon wedges and Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is easy; add a splash of chicken broth to keep the orzo moist. Freezing is possible for up to 2 months; remember to thaw in the fridge overnight.