Name: Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 3/4 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; 4 Tbsp. butter, divided; 1/3 cup minced shallots; Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup broth mixed with a splash of white vinegar; 1 cup dry orzo pasta; 2 3/4 cups water; 1/2 tsp. kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives; Juice of 1 lemon (from the zested lemon); Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 13 reviews

If you’re looking for a dinner that packs so much flavor and comes together in just about 30 minutes, this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine large, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlicky lemon butter sauce, mingling perfectly with tender, slightly toasty orzo pasta and a fresh burst of herbs. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s not only simple to make but delivers an elegant, satisfying meal that feels special any night of the week. You’ll love how every bite is a bright, buttery celebration of flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several bowls and plates arranged on a white marbled surface. At the center bottom, there is a pink bowl filled with raw shrimp, light pink and semi-translucent. Above it to the right is a small round white bowl filled with uncooked orzo pasta, pale yellow and smooth. Next to the orzo is a tiny white bowl containing red chili flakes. To the top right, a white bowl is filled with fresh green herbs, including parsley and chives, with textured leafy and thin stalks. In the middle left, there is a wooden bowl holding two peeled shallots, light pink and smooth. Above that is a white plate with colorful floral patterns containing a square stick of butter, pale yellow and smooth, and a small round bowl of peeled garlic cloves, creamy white and smooth. A bright yellow lemon sits between the shallots and the herbs. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe lies in its straightforward and intentional ingredient list. Each component plays a key role, whether boosting flavor, adding freshness, or creating that luscious sauce that ties everything together seamlessly.

1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and quick-cooking for perfect succulence.
2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful sear on the shrimp.
1 lemon, divided: For bright, zesty notes that lift the entire dish.
5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced: Infuses an irresistible aroma and savory depth.
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
4 Tbsp. butter, divided: Creates that silky, golden sauce everyone swoons over.
1/3 cup minced shallots: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes: Brings just the right hint of heat.
1/3 cup broth mixed with a splash of white vinegar: Balances richness with a mild tang and helps cook the orzo.
1 cup dry orzo pasta: The perfect tiny pasta for soaking up all that garlicky goodness.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herbal brightness.
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives: Adds subtle onion notes and a pop of color.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Begin by tossing your shrimp with half the olive oil, lemon zest, two cloves of garlic, and seasonings. This quick marination lets the shrimp soak up those fresh, zesty, garlicky flavors before hitting the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat butter in a large skillet over medium, then add the shrimp. Cook them just until they’re opaque and tender, about three minutes—don’t overcook! Once done, transfer the shrimp to a separate bowl to rest while you build the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Aromatics and Toast the Orzo

In the same pan, melt the remaining butter with olive oil, then add shallots, red pepper flakes, and the rest of the garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about three minutes. Stir in the orzo, giving it a quick toast to elevate its nutty flavor before introducing the broth and vinegar mixture.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo

Add your broth and vinegar mixture, letting it simmer to reduce slightly. Then pour in water and simmer uncovered until the orzo is perfectly al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, approximately 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Herbs

Return the shrimp to the pan along with half of your parsley and chives. Gently mix everything together with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and drizzle of olive oil. Finish by scattering the remaining herbs on top and seasoning with a few fresh grinds of pepper for that final flourish of flavor.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe

A white pan filled with three layers of food: at the bottom is a layer of light yellow orzo pasta, next a layer of cooked shrimp with orange and white tones spread over the pasta, and on top fresh chopped green herbs sprinkled all over including parsley and chives. Two lemon wedges, one whole and one sliced, with bright yellow skin and pale yellow inside, sit on the top near the shrimp. The background is a white marbled surface with a white cloth and some green herbs visible around the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives elevates this dish visually and flavor-wise, adding a vibrant green contrast and a burst of fresh herbaceous notes that brighten every bite. A few extra lemon wedges on the side provide an optional tart kick for anyone who loves a bit more citrus zing.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs exceptionally well with crisp, green sides like a fresh arugula salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or garlic bread can complement the rich garlic butter flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe in individual shallow bowls and top each with a colorful herb sprig and lemon twist. Hosting a dinner party? Arrange the orzo on a large platter, nestled with whole grilled shrimp and lined with lemon slices for a stunning presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover shrimp scampi orzo keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more, making it an excellent next-day lunch or quick dinner option.

Freezing

While shrimp can sometimes lose texture after freezing, this Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe can be frozen if needed. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container, label, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the orzo in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to maintain that perfect buttery texture and shrimp tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What can I substitute for orzo if I can’t find it?

Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, couscous, or even quinoa can work as great alternatives, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, swap out the orzo for gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice to keep this dish gluten-free without losing any flavor or texture.

Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe?

Definitely! Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas towards the end of cooking to add color, nutrients, and extra flavor to the dish.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds just a gentle warmth that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. You can always adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again—it balances speed, ease, and incredible flavor like few other recipes do. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing friends with minimal effort, this one-pan wonder delivers every time. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this garlicky, buttery, lemony delight in your dinner rotation!