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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 30 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Orzo is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky butter and olive oil sauce with tender orzo pasta. Enhanced by the bright flavors of fresh lemon juice, white wine, and parsley, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s a perfect quick and elegant meal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Pasta

  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup dry white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted boiling water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: While the orzo is cooking, pat the shrimp dry using paper towels and season them with salt and pepper evenly on both sides.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté the mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  5. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
  6. Add the Orzo: Return the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss it to coat thoroughly with the garlic butter sauce. Let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to ensure it is heated through and well combined with the sauce.
  7. Combine Shrimp and Parsley: Add the shrimp back into the skillet along with the chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss everything together to combine and heat the shrimp through without overcooking.
  8. Finish with Cheese and Adjust Seasoning: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi with orzo hot, optionally garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh finish.

Notes

  • Use large shrimp for best texture and adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
  • Dry white wine adds a subtle acidity and depth; substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice mild heat.
  • Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish; omit for a dairy-free version.
  • Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they become rubbery quickly.

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Find it online: https://comfortkitcheneats.com/garlic-butter-shrimp-scampi-with-orzo-recipe/