If you crave a dish that’s bursting with flavor, simple to prepare, and perfect for a cozy dinner, this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp bathed in a garlicky lemon butter sauce, mingling beautifully with al dente orzo pasta and fresh herbs. It all comes together in just 30 minutes using one pan, making it a weeknight winner that feels anything but ordinary. This recipe is as delightful to make as it is to eat, and once you try it, I promise it will become a beloved go-to in your meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round wooden board holds eight bowls and ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. Starting from the bottom left, there is a pink bowl filled with raw shrimp with curved, pale pink and white bodies and dark brown tails. Above it is a small dark wood bowl with two purple and white shallot halves. At the top left on a white plate with colorful patterns sits a large block of yellow butter and a small white bowl of peeled garlic cloves. In the center is a bright yellow lemon. To the upper right, a rustic white bowl is full of fresh green parsley and rosemary sprigs. Below, a small wooden bowl contains uncooked beige orzo pasta. Next to it is a tiny white bowl holding red pepper flakes. Above everything is an empty white bowl with a turquoise inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each adding its own magic to the final creation. From the richness of butter to the brightness of lemon and the fresh bite of herbs, every component plays a crucial role in building layers of irresistible taste and texture.

1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, providing succulent, delicate seafood flavor.
2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided: Adds a fruity, smooth base fat that enhances the sauce and helps with cooking.
1 lemon, divided: Both zest and juice bring bright, fresh citrus notes that lift the entire dish.
5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced: Impart an intoxicating aroma and depth of savory flavor.
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper: Basics that season and balance all the flavors perfectly.
4 Tbsp. butter, divided: Adds luscious creaminess and richness to the sauce and orzo.
1/3 cup minced shallots: Offer a subtle onion sweetness that deepens the flavor profile.
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes: Provides just a hint of heat without overpowering the dish.
1/3 cup dry white wine (or broth with a splash of white wine vinegar): Helps deglaze the pan and introduces complex acidity and aroma.
1 cup dry orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully for a comforting texture.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh herbal brightness and pretty green color.
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives: Adds a mild onion flavor and vibrant tone to finish the dish.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by tossing the shrimp with half of the olive oil, lemon zest, two sliced garlic cloves, kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade infuses the shrimp with bright citrus and garlicky goodness, setting the stage for that irresistible, buttery flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the marinated shrimp and cook until they turn opaque, about three minutes. This step locks in the shrimp’s juicy texture and caramelizes their edges slightly. Transfer the shrimp to a clean bowl to await the next step.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Toast Orzo

Add the remaining olive oil and two tablespoons of butter to the same pan. Toss in minced shallots, crushed red pepper flakes, and the rest of the sliced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft, about three minutes — this is where the foundation of flavor deepens. Then stir in the orzo, letting it toast gently for one to two minutes, enhancing its nuttiness and texture.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer Orzo

Pour in the white wine (or broth with vinegar) and simmer for two minutes to reduce slightly, bringing acidity and moisture to the pan. Season with kosher salt and pepper, then add 2 3/4 cups of water. Let the orzo cook uncovered until it’s tender yet firm, absorbing most of the liquid — about 12 minutes, though simmer strength may vary.

Step 5: Combine and Finish with Herbs

Gently stir the cooked shrimp back into the pan, folding in half of the fresh parsley and chives. Finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, the remaining herbs, and a few grinds of black pepper. This step brightens and freshens the dish, blending all ingredients into a harmonious, mouthwatering meal.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe

A white bowl filled with a layer of small, rice-shaped pale yellow pasta mixed with chopped green herbs. On top, several pinkish-orange shrimp with a firm texture are placed, some showing a light char and garnished with finely chopped green herbs. Two lemon wedges with a pale yellow color and light seeds rest near the edge of the bowl. A white marbled surface is visible around the bowl with a textured white cloth in one corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives not only adds vibrant color but also a refreshing herbal note that makes each bite sing. For a touch of elegance, a lemon wedge on the side invites extra tang for those who crave it. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving lends silkiness and shine.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus can offer a fresh, crunchy contrast that balances the richness. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover lemon butter sauce, while a chilled glass of white wine complements the seafood flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe in shallow bowls with a lemon twist on top and a scatter of herbs. You can also plate the orzo neatly using a ring mold for a restaurant-style touch. For a fun twist at a party, portion it into small ramekins or cups for elegant individual servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Scampi Orzo is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to two days. Because the orzo absorbs the sauce, you might notice it thickens slightly, but don’t worry — reheating revives its luscious texture.

Freezing

Freezing shrimp dishes can be tricky since shrimp can turn rubbery, so it’s not recommended to freeze this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe if you want to maintain the perfect texture. However, if you do freeze it, try to consume within one month and thaw gently in the refrigerator to minimize quality loss.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your leftovers is over low heat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir gently and heat just until warmed through to keep the shrimp tender. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can quickly toughen the seafood.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as they are thawed completely and patted dry before cooking. This helps them sauté evenly and develop the best texture.

What can I substitute for the white wine?

If you don’t have white wine, chicken or vegetable broth with a splash of white wine vinegar works beautifully to provide acidity and depth.

Is orzo the only pasta that works here?

Orzo is ideal because of its small, rice-like shape that absorbs sauce well, but you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells if needed.

How spicy is this dish from the crushed red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper adds just a gentle warmth. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat preference or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

While this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe revolves around shrimp and butter, you could swap shrimp for mushrooms or tofu and use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

There is something so comforting and yet dazzling about this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe. It brings together the best qualities of seafood and pasta into one beautiful, flavorful plate that’s easy enough for weeknights and special enough to impress guests. I can’t wait for you to try making it at home and experience those juicy shrimp in that garlicky lemon butter sauce. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite quick dinners to prepare and savor!