Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo One-Pan Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup orzo pasta; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 0.33 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re searching for a vibrant, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner that comes together effortlessly, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo One-Pan Dinner is about to become your new go-to meal. Combining tender shrimp, creamy orzo pasta, bright lemon zest, and aromatic garlic, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results using simple pantry ingredients — all in just one pan.

This easy shrimp orzo recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinner parties, or whenever you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance: rich yet fresh, hearty yet light, comforting yet elegant.

Let’s dive into why this one-pan shrimp dinner deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Mediterranean-inspired seafood dinner:

One pan means minimal cleanup
Ready in about 30 minutes
Bright, fresh flavors from lemon and herbs
Protein-packed shrimp for a satisfying meal
Creamy texture without heavy cream
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

The combination of citrus and garlic enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp while the orzo absorbs every drop of flavorful broth. The result? A creamy, cohesive dish that tastes like it simmered all day — but didn’t.

What Is Orzo?

If you’re new to cooking with orzo, you’re in for a treat. Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta often used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Despite its appearance, it’s not rice — it’s pasta made from wheat flour.

Orzo cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it ideal for one-pan recipes like this lemon garlic shrimp orzo. Its tender, slightly chewy texture pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy shrimp orzo recipe:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely diced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or seafood broth)
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
Juice of 1 large lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the perfect one-pan shrimp dinner:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add remaining olive oil. Sauté shallot for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in white wine (if using) and let it simmer until mostly reduced.
Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until creamy.
Return shrimp to the skillet and cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooking makes them rubbery. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

2. Toast the Orzo

Lightly toasting the orzo before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and improves texture.

3. Use Fresh Lemon

Fresh lemon juice and zest make a huge difference. Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright flavor.

4. Adjust Creaminess

If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of warm broth before serving.

Variations to Try

This Mediterranean shrimp pasta is incredibly versatile. Try these creative twists:

Creamy Spinach Version

Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the final minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo

Increase the butter and reduce the lemon for a richer, more indulgent version.

Mediterranean-Inspired Twist

Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and crumbled feta for a stronger Mediterranean flavor profile.

Spicy Cajun Style

Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning and add a splash of cream for a Southern-inspired variation.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon garlic shrimp orzo is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate your meal with:

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted asparagus or zucchini
Warm crusty bread for soaking up sauce
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc

Because this is a one-pan shrimp dinner, it’s perfect for both weeknight family meals and special occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, orzo may soften upon thawing. For best texture, enjoy fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

Shrimp are high in protein and low in calories, making this dish a balanced choice. They’re also rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Combined with olive oil and fresh herbs, this Mediterranean shrimp pasta delivers both flavor and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I substitute rice for orzo?

You can, but cooking times and liquid amounts will change.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional orzo contains gluten. Use gluten-free orzo if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo One-Pan Dinner proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. It’s quick, elegant, and bursting with bright citrus and savory garlic notes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this easy shrimp orzo recipe guarantees satisfied smiles around the table.

Add it to your weekly rotation — you won’t regret it.