Stick-of-Butter Shrimp and Orzo: A Rich, Buttery Mediterranean
Stick-of-Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a comforting one-pan dish that blends tender shrimp with delicate orzo pasta cooked in a rich buttery broth. As the orzo simmers, it absorbs the flavors of garlic, broth, and seasoning, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without constant stirring. The shrimp cook quickly, adding sweetness and protein to the dish. Fresh herbs and lemon often brighten the flavors, balancing the richness of the butter. This dish is simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it delivers restaurant-style flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and toast lightly for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and add salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Place slices of butter evenly over the orzo mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the orzo begins to soften.
- Add the shrimp and gently mix them into the orzo.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Medium or large shrimp work best in this dish.
- Chicken broth adds richness, but seafood broth enhances the seafood flavour.
- Unsalted butter helps control the overall salt level.
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Parmesan cheese thickens and enriches the sauce.
- Lemon juice brightens the rich buttery flavors.
- Fresh herbs elevate the final dish.