One-Pan Creamy Lemon Orzo with Shrimp

The aroma of succulent shrimp mingling with a zesty lemon scent fills the air, instantly transporting you to a sunny Mediterranean coastal kitchen. This One-Pan Creamy Lemon Orzo with Shrimp comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick yet elegant dish that highlights the brightness of lemon and the richness of cream. It’s a delightful option for weeknight dinners, impressing family and friends alike with minimal effort.

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a comforting, creamy dish that’s bursting with flavor. Consider making it for a busy weeknight meal or a last-minute dinner party. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the orzo ahead of time; just add the shrimp and cream when you’re ready to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The delicate creaminess of orzo perfectly complements tender shrimp.
• It’s a one-pan meal, minimizing cleanup time.
• The infusion of lemon zest brightens the dish, adding a fresh twist.
• Quick to prepare, it fits seamlessly into your weekday dinner routine.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• Zest of ½ lemon
• 1 tsp seasoning, like Danos Original Seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ½ tsp Aleppo pepper
• Dash of cayenne
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Orzo

• Orzo pasta, amount as needed
• Cream, amount as needed for creaminess

For Garnish

• Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Parsley, for garnish
• Chili oil, for drizzle

Use low-fat cream for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu.
• Use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor.
• Replace Aleppo pepper with regular red pepper flakes.
• For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream.

How to Make It

Creating this dish is as simple as following these steps:

Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, lemon zest, seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, Aleppo pepper, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Toast the Orzo

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and add the orzo. Toast for a minute, then add water or broth according to orzo package instructions. Bring to a simmer and cook until orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Stir in the Cream

Stir in cream to desired creaminess. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with parmesan, parsley, and a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, as the cream may separate.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
• Adjust the cream amount for your preferred thickness and richness.
• Toast the orzo lightly for added depth of flavor.
• Freshly squeeze lemon juice right before serving for extra zest.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing meal.
• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.