Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked orzo; 2½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium) or vegetable broth; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons); ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups baby spinach; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 15 reviews

If you are craving a meal that combines bright citrus flavors, tender seafood, and comforting carbs all in one, then you absolutely have to try this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe. It’s a vibrant one pan dish featuring plump, juicy shrimp nestled in a creamy bed of perfectly cooked orzo, enhanced by the aromatic punch of garlic, the freshness of lemon, and a touch of Parmesan. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive yet easy dish to serve friends, this recipe brings the perfect balance of zest, richness, and wholesome ingredients that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two round silver pans with a shiny surface on a white marbled background. The left pan has a mixture of lightly mashed pale yellow cooked potatoes spread unevenly along the edges, and a pile of plain light brown orzo pasta in the center. The right pan shows the same orzo pasta cooked to a golden brown with a toasted, slightly crispy texture, scattered evenly across the pan. Both pans are placed side by side, showcasing the before and after cooking stages of the orzo. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The charm of this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component plays a role in building layers of flavor and a pleasing texture—starting from the aromatic onion and garlic to the tender, juicy shrimp and creamy Parmesan that binds everything together.

Olive oil: Essential for a flavorful base and to gently cook the aromatics without burning.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce when combined with the broth and Parmesan.
Small onion (finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the recipe with that irresistible, pungent kick.
Uncooked orzo: The star grain-like pasta that soaks up all the broth and flavors beautifully.
Chicken broth (low-sodium or vegetable): The cooking liquid that steeps the orzo with savory notes.
Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds lean protein and a tender, succulent bite.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that highlights the herbs and balances the citrus.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To enhance and bring out the natural flavors.
Lemon zest and juice: Brightens the entire dish and complements the shrimp perfectly.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Creates creaminess and adds a savory, nutty finish.
Baby spinach: Boosts color, nutrition, and a mild earthiness to the recipe.
Fresh parsley (chopped): A fresh herb garnish that adds a pop of green and brightness.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and slightly shimmering. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and becomes translucent—this gentle base layer is where all the subsequent flavors start to build. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma without burning.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Next, stir in the uncooked orzo to the skillet and cook it for about a minute, allowing it to toast lightly and develop a subtle nutty flavor. This step elevates the final texture and flavor of the orzo, making it a little more complex and interesting than just boiling it.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, sprinkle in salt and black pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to let the orzo cook for around 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo will absorb the savory broth, getting plump and tender.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Seasonings

Once the orzo is almost done, nestle the peeled and deveined shrimp into the pan and sprinkle over the Italian seasoning. Replace the cover and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp turn a lovely opaque pink and curl up slightly. It’s important not to overcook the shrimp so they stay juicy and tender.

Step 5: Stir in Lemon, Parmesan, and Spinach

Now the magic moment: sprinkle in the lemon zest and juice, the grated Parmesan cheese, and add the baby spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into a silky, creamy sauce that envelops the orzo and shrimp. This is where the dish reaches its full luscious, bright potential.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe

The image shows a metal pan filled with creamy orzo pasta mixed with light pink shrimp and green spinach leaves scattered throughout. The orzo is small and rice-shaped, with a soft, slightly shiny texture. On the left side of the pan, there are two thin, round slices of yellow lemon resting on the edge. A woman’s hand holds a wooden spoon stirring the mixture inside the pan, lifting some shrimp and orzo towards the right side. The background is a white marbled surface with a blue cloth partly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top right before serving. If you love a little extra zing, an additional squeeze of lemon juice brightens up every bite and enhances the garlic and shrimp flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is delightfully balanced on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining or just to make dinner a bit more special, serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished with lemon wedges and extra Parmesan. You can also scoop it into small ramekins as elegant appetizers or pack it into lettuce cups for a fun, fresh twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing to maintain its creamy texture and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the creamy sauce and delicate spinach don’t freeze particularly well. If you must freeze, omit the spinach and add fresh when reheating to preserve texture and color.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent overcooked shrimp or dry orzo.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can dilute the flavors.

Is there a good substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grated Pecorino Romano can be a great alternative if you want a sharper, saltier cheese, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the shrimp for hearty mushrooms or roasted chickpeas, and use vegetable broth to keep the flavor depth intact.

What type of orzo is best to use?

Regular store-bought dry orzo works perfectly; just be sure to cook it properly in broth for best flavor and texture.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic or finish with a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I promise that this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. It’s bright, comforting, easy to make, and satisfying in every bite. Whether you’re feeding hungry family members or treating yourself after a long day, this dish brings delicious simplicity and elegance to your kitchen table. Go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warm, zesty flavors that this recipe so lovingly delivers!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need