One Pot Lemon Shrimp Orzo

Close up of a serving spoon lifting a helping of lemon shrimp orzo out of a cast iron skillet.

4.94 from 16 votes

Ridiculously tasty and ridiculously easy to make. With tender orzo, plump shrimp, and simple veggies mixed in, this is a true one pan, 30 minute meal you will love.

Prep Time5

Cook Time25

Total Time30

Course: Main

Cuisine: American

Keyword: lemon shrimp orzo

Servings:

Calories: 292kcal

Author: Monica Lensink

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter divided
1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
12-15 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
1/2 medium yellow onion chopped
2-3 garlic cloves minced
1 and 1/4 cups uncooked orzo
3 cups low-sodium broth chicken, veggie, or seafood all work
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
3/4 cup frozen peas
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
fresh oregano or parsley optional garnish

Instructions

Warm 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sprinkle evenly with oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque, then remove to a plate and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add onion and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook about 1 minute more, just until fragrant. Stir in the dried orzo and cook about 1 minute, to lightly toast.
Pour in the broth. Increase heat to high until liquid boils, then return to medium so that the mixture is simmering gently. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally and reduce heat further if needed to prevent sticking.
When orzo is tender, stir in the tomatoes and peas. Taste and season with more salt and pepper, as needed.
Return shrimp to the pan, sprinkle lemon juice on top, garnish with fresh oregano and/or parsley leaves, and serve.

Notes

Olive oil is a good substitute for butter if you prefer it. I simply use butter here for more flavor.
For a touch of heat, garnish with red pepper flakes as well as fresh herbs. For more citrus pop, add a smidge of lemon zest on top of the skillet or over each serving.

Nutrition