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Creamy lemon garlic shrimp orzo with juicy seared shrimp, spinach, Parmesan, fresh lemon, and parsley in a ceramic serving bowl.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo

Juicy garlic shrimp and tender orzo cooked in one skillet with Parmesan, cream, spinach, and fresh lemon for an easy, flavorful 30-minute dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup dry orzo
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning divided
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth plus more as needed
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more for serving

Method
 

  1. Pat shrimp thoroughly dry.
  2. Season with paprika, salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until almost cooked through.
  5. Transfer shrimp to a plate.
  6. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining butter.
  7. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  8. Stir in dry orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  9. Add chicken broth and remaining Italian seasoning.
  10. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until orzo is tender.
  11. Add additional broth if needed during cooking.
  12. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
  13. Gradually stir in Parmesan until melted.
  14. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  15. Stir in lemon zest and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
  16. Return shrimp and accumulated juices to the skillet.
  17. Add broth as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
  18. Taste and adjust lemon, salt, and pepper.
  19. Finish with parsley, Parmesan, pepper, and additional lemon zest.
  20. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the shrimp dry helps them sear properly.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp during the initial sear because they'll warm again at the end.
Stir the orzo frequently while it cooks.
Freshly grated Parmesan produces the smoothest sauce.
The orzo thickens as it sits, so keep extra broth available.