Smart Recipe Kitchen

2026-05-02

This garlic butter shrimp orzo skillet is quick, bright, and practical when you want something that feels a little nicer than the effort required. The orzo cooks in the same pan, which keeps the texture cohesive and cleanup manageable. Serves 4.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 1 lemon
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Season the shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon salt and the pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side, then remove to a plate.
3. Lower heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and garlic. Stir for 30 seconds.
4. Add the orzo and cook 1 minute. Pour in broth, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Simmer 10 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender.
6. Stir in spinach, Parmesan, lemon juice from half the lemon, and the cooked shrimp. Heat through. Finish with parsley and extra lemon wedges.

Why it works:

The orzo absorbs the broth and shrimp juices, creating a light sauce without extra steps.

Timing:

Prep 12 minutes, cook 18 minutes, total about 30 minutes.