Name: One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp for Effortless Gourmet Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option); 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined); 4 cloves garlic (minced); to taste kosher salt; to taste black pepper; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 medium shallots (diced); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup dry white wine (can be replaced with additional chicken stock); 2 cups chicken stock (preferably low-sodium); 1 cup orzo pasta; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan; ¼ cup heavy cream (can substitute with half-and-half); to taste fresh parsley (for garnish); to taste fresh dill (for garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter danced through the air, instantly transporting me to a sunlit Mediterranean terrace. This simple yet scrumptious One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Creamy Orzo comes together in just 40 minutes, making it my go-to for both hectic weeknights and cozy dinner parties. With its velvety orzo and succulent shrimp, this dish is a delightful balance of comfort and elegance, sure to impress family and friends. Plus, the best part? This quick-cooking beauty leaves only one pot to clean, freeing up your time for what really matters—savoring each rich, buttery bite. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to be a new household favorite!

Why is One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Amazing?

Effortless Cooking: This recipe is a game-changer for busy evenings, as everything cooks in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, buttery richness, and succulent shrimp creates an irresistible dish that’s bursting with taste.

Versatile Options: Easily adaptable by swapping shrimp for chicken or seasonal veggies, making it a perfect fit for any palate or dietary preference.

Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish hot, and watch your family and friends’ eyes light up as they savor each creamy bite, making you look like a culinary pro!

Crowd Pleaser: Its delightful balance of comfort and elegance makes it the perfect choice for both casual dinners and special gatherings.

One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients

• Below is everything you need for your flavor-packed dish!

For the Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and is essential for sautéing; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Medium Shrimp – The star ingredient providing protein and flavor; use peeled and deveined shrimp to minimize prep time.
Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; minced fresh garlic is best for intensity.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
Lemon Zest – Provides citrusy brightness, enhancing the overall flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Balances richness and adds a refreshing note.
Shallots – Adds sweetness and depth; can be substituted with onion if necessary.

For the Sauce

All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce beautifully for a creamy texture.
Dry White Wine – Enhances the flavor, but can be replaced with additional chicken stock for a non-alcoholic option.
Chicken Stock – Cooks the orzo and adds depth; low-sodium versions are preferable for better salt control.
Orzo Pasta – Cooks quickly and adds a creamy consistency similar to risotto.

For the Finish

Freshly Grated Parmesan – Contributes a salty, nutty flavor and creaminess.
Heavy Cream – Adds a luscious texture; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Fresh Parsley and Dill – Adds vibrancy; use herbs of your choice to garnish or enhance flavor.

Feel ready to create this One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp dish that promises delectable flavors and a delightful dining experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
In a Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the medium shrimp and minced garlic, seasoning them generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pot and keep them warm on a plate while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Cook Shallots and Garlic
In the same Dutch oven, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced shallots, sautéing them for about 3 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. You’ll notice the shallots turning translucent, which signals that the base flavor for your One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp is well established.

Step 3: Create the Roux
Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the sautéed mixture and cook for about 1 minute. Stir continuously until the flour is lightly browned, creating a roux that will help thicken the sauce. This will give your dish a luxurious texture, so make sure it doesn’t burn as you develop that rich flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine and 2 cups of chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the orzo pasta, seasoning with a little more salt and pepper. Raise the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 6 minutes until the orzo is cooked al dente and infused with garlic-butter goodness.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency
Check the consistency of your sauce; if it seems too thick, gradually add more chicken stock or water until you reach your desired creaminess. Give it a good stir to ensure the orzo is evenly coated and soaking up all those delightful flavors from the One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp dish.

Step 6: Finish with Flavor
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan, ¼ cup of heavy cream, the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and dill. Return the sautéed shrimp to the pot, mixing everything gently to combine. Cook for an additional minute to warm the shrimp through and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
With everything well mixed and piping hot, serve your One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Creamy Orzo immediately. Ladle into bowls and garnish with more fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Creamy Orzo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic and shallots, as well as measure out your pasta and dry ingredients, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can clean and devein the shrimp ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 1 day. When you’re ready to cook, just sauté the shrimp with the prepared garlic and shallots, then follow the remaining steps to create a delicious meal that tastes just as fantastic as if made fresh. Enjoy effortlessly gourmet nights with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. To retain the dish’s creamy texture, add a splash of stock or milk when reheating.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of chicken stock to restore creaminess.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the shrimp—just heat until warmed through to maintain their tenderness in the One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp.

What to Serve with One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp

Experience a flavorful meal that transports you to the coast, where the ocean breeze meets delicious home-cooked comfort.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; a warm loaf adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender, lightly caramelized spears provide a fresh, earthy contrast to the rich shrimp dish, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the buttery richness, adding a vibrant touch to the dinner table.
Lemon Garlic Broccoli: Bright, zesty broccoli offers a wonderful burst of freshness while echoing the garlic notes in the shrimp, creating a harmonious plate.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the shrimp, enhancing the seafood experience and adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and slightly tangy flavor adds texture and contrast, making every bite a delicious adventure.
Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice side complements the creamy orzo, providing a light base for all that incredible flavor to shine through.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with this silky dessert, making a memorable finish after the delicious garlic butter shrimp.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, it cleanses the palate beautifully after the richness of the main dish, keeping your taste buds dancing.

One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Variations

Customize your One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these delightful twists!

Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken for a heartier version—just ensure it’s cooked through before serving!
Sausage Surprise: Use andouille sausage for a spicy kick; its bold flavor adds a wonderful depth to the dish.
Veggie Delight: Toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. They not only enhance nutrition but also brighten up the plate!
Creamy Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach during the final moments of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for a unique flavor profile; it’s a simple way to elevate the dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Add more Parmesan or even a dash of goat cheese for an extra creamy and indulgent finish.
Heat it Up: Spice things up with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist, catering to all heat lovers!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour and use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.

Looking to enjoy this dish with something special? Consider pairing it with some Grilled Hasselback Potatoes or savoring it alongside a refreshing Grilled Shrimp Bowl for an unforgettable meal experience!

Expert Tips for One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp

Perfect Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are pink and opaque, avoiding overcooking for tenderness. Frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw before cooking.

Adjust the Creaminess: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid while cooking, add more chicken stock gradually until your desired consistency is reached.

Roux Technique: When creating the roux, whisk continuously for about 1 minute to avoid burning. This step is crucial for a luscious sauce!

One Pot Wonder: Utilize a Dutch oven for even cooking; it retains heat well and prevents uneven textures. If unavailable, opt for a heavy pot.

Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by swapping shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a new twist on this One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe!

One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What shrimp should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely use medium-sized shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience! Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works well too—just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking.

How long can I store leftover One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp?
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To preserve its creamy texture, I recommend adding a splash of chicken stock or milk when reheating.

Can I freeze One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

What if my orzo absorbs too much liquid?
No worries! If you notice that the orzo has absorbed too much liquid while cooking, simply add additional chicken stock or water gradually until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Stir gently to combine everything.

Is this dish suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make this One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp gluten-free by substituting regular orzo with gluten-free pasta. Just double-check the ingredients in your chicken stock to ensure it’s also gluten-free.

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?
Very! This is a versatile recipe. You can substitute the shrimp with boneless skinless chicken, andouille sausage, or seasonal vegetables, tailoring it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.