Easy Shrimp Orzo Recipe Everyone Will Love

Take your dinner table up a notch with this easy, flavorful Shrimp Orzo recipe. This one-pan wonder is perfect for home cooks, seafood lovers, and anyone craving a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Bursting with tender shrimp, creamy orzo, and aromatic spices, this dish will undoubtedly become a family favorite.

Why You Need This Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Shrimp Orzo isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is comforting yet fresh, rich yet light. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a weeknight meal, this recipe brings bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. Key highlights include:

• Ease: Everything cooks in one pan, saving you time and cleanup.
• Speed: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Versatility: Customizable with different vegetables, broths, and spices to match your preferences.

Now, grab your aprons and let's get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, gather the following ingredients for your Shrimp Orzo masterpiece.

For the shrimp marinade:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the orzo base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, diced (optional for added veggies)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup crushed canned tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp

Start by preparing the shrimp. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes (if you want a spicy kick), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the shrimp in the marinade to coat evenly, then set aside for 10–15 minutes while you prep the orzo.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then cook the marinated shrimp in a single layer for about 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

3. Build the Orzo Base

• Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add another drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 2–3 minutes). If you’re using zucchini or other vegetables, toss them in at this stage and cook until just tender.
• Add the orzo pasta, stirring frequently for 1–2 minutes. This step toasts the orzo, giving it a rich, nutty flavor.

4. Simmer to Perfection

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy. If the orzo looks dry, add a splash of broth or water.

5. Combine and Finish the Dish

• Once the orzo is cooked to perfection, stir in the Parmesan cheese for a luscious, creamy base.
• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently mix to combine. Heat for another 1–2 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. Pair your Shrimp Orzo with a crisp salad or garlic bread for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Orzo

• Use fresh shrimp whenever possible. Frozen shrimp works too, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
• Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of white wine or sprinkling feta cheese instead of Parmesan.
• Add more veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for a hint of color and a serving of greens.

Why Orzo and Shrimp are a Perfect Pair

For those unfamiliar with orzo, it’s a small, rice-shaped pasta often used in Mediterranean cooking. Its creamy, velvety texture elevates any dish, making it the perfect base for juicy, tender shrimp. Combined, these two create a harmony of flavors that feels indulgent but remains light enough for any occasion.

Health Benefits of This Shrimp Orzo Recipe

This Shrimp Orzo isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that fuel your body.

• Shrimp are a great source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like B12 and selenium.
• Orzo provides high-quality carbohydrates for energy, especially if you’re using whole-wheat varieties.
• Veggies and herbs add essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for an added health boost.

Bring the Flavors of the Mediterranean Home

Shrimp Orzo is a versatile, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish that belongs in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re a seafood fan or an orzo enthusiast, this recipe promises bold flavors with minimal kitchen stress.

Now that you’re armed with this foolproof recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media—tag us at #ShrimpOrzoKitchen for a chance to be featured.