Name: Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1-1½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails optional); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 shallot, peeled and chopped; 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; 1¼ cup orzo pasta; ⅓ cup white wine; Juice and zest of one lemon; 2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable), plus more if needed; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 41 reviews

If you ever want a dinner that tastes like a celebration in your mouth but comes together in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe is your new best friend. The juicy, garlicky shrimp swim in a luscious, velvety sauce infused with lemon zing and Parmesan richness, all nestled on a bed of tender orzo that soaks up every bit of flavor. It’s the perfect balance of elegant yet comforting, making it a guaranteed hit for weeknights or any time you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a sequence of four stages of cooking in a white pan with a black rim, all placed on a white marbled surface. The first stage has dry orzo pasta with yellow lemon zest sprinkled on top, covering the center and edges in a loose layer. The second stage shows the orzo submerged in a golden broth, with some clumps of pasta floating, and a white lid partially covering the pan's upper right edge. The third stage presents the orzo now creamy and thickened, with grated white cheese sprinkled in a circle on top, slightly melting into the pasta. The fourth stage shows the creamy orzo base topped with a pile of cooked pink shrimp placed in the center, adding a textured, orange-pink contrast to the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly simple but pack a powerful punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role, from the plump shrimp lending sweetness and protein, to the bright lemon juice and zest adding that sunny lift that makes this dish irresistible.

Shrimp (1-1½ lb, peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed, shrimp bring the star seafood flavor and succulent texture to this dish.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance every ingredient without overpowering.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): A subtle kick that warms the dish without stealing the show.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds creamy richness and helps saute the aromatics perfectly.
Shallot (1, peeled and chopped): Offers a delicate sweetness and depth without the harsh bite of raw onion.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for that classic scampi punch of flavor.
Orzo (1¼ cup): The tiny pasta pearls absorb sauce beautifully, providing the perfect bed for the shrimp.
White wine (⅓ cup): Adds a subtle acidity and complexity that lightens the creamy sauce.
Lemon juice and zest (from 1 lemon): Brings brightness and freshness, balancing richness.
Broth (2 cups, chicken or vegetable): Liquid base that cooks the orzo and lends depth to the sauce.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Turns the sauce into a silky, dreamy coating for the shrimp and pasta.
Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds savory umami and a lovely nutty aroma.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for serving): A sprinkle of green freshness to lift the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels—this helps them get a nice sear without steaming. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, and the red pepper flakes to add just a touch of heat. If you like a bit more spice, feel free to adjust accordingly. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy. Toss in the chopped shallot and sauté for a couple of minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook just until it releases its incredible aroma, about 30 seconds. This base of butter, shallot, and garlic sets the stage for the sauce’s flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo directly to the skillet with the aromatics. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes—this toasting step adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps the pasta develop texture, so it doesn’t turn mushy once the liquids are added.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the white wine, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer gently until it’s reduced by about half, concentrating its flavor. Next, stir in the broth along with the lemon juice and zest. Bring everything to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If the mixture looks too dry, add a splash more broth.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp and Add Cream

Slide the seasoned shrimp into the pan, nestling them on top of the orzo. They will cook quickly—just 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked through, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken to a beautifully creamy consistency. Give everything a final taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe

The image shows eleven small white bowls and one clear measuring cup on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredient layers. From top left: a glass with light yellow wine, a small white bowl with chopped shallots, a small white bowl with chopped garlic, a small dark brown bowl with bright yellow lemon zest, a clear measuring cup filled with white cream, a medium-sized white bowl filled with light beige orzo pasta, a small white bowl with light yellow lemon juice, a large white bowl with raw grey shrimp, a small white bowl with golden olive oil, a small white bowl with red chili flakes, a small white bowl with light yellow butter, a small white bowl filled with grated white cheese, and a clear measuring cup with yellow broth. A marble mortar with salt and black pepper is visible at the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of vibrant green that brightens the plate and introduces a subtle herbal freshness. For a little added zest, a tiny twist of lemon peel on top creates a stunning aroma as you dig in.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus. The light crunch and freshness from the salad contrast nicely with the silky orzo and rich shrimp, balancing the overall meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe in shallow pasta bowls to show off that luscious sauce, making it extra inviting to dive into. For a special touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top or scatter toasted pine nuts for crunch and a nutty flavor boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The creamy sauce tends to thicken in the fridge, so before reheating, gently loosen it up with a splash of broth or water.

Freezing

This recipe isn’t the best candidate for freezing because the creamy texture and shrimp can change once thawed and reheated. For the freshest taste and texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated and eaten within a couple of days.

Reheating

When warming up leftovers, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring constantly. Adding a bit of broth or cream helps bring back the silky sauce consistency without drying out the shrimp or overcooking the orzo.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry well to get a nice sear and prevent any excess water from watering down the sauce.

What kind of white wine works best here?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works perfectly. It adds a bright acidity that complements the seafood and creamy sauce beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream or a substitute like cashew cream instead of heavy cream, but expect a slightly different flavor profile. Also, opt for a vegan Parmesan or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.

Is orzo the only pasta that works here?

Orzo is ideal because of its rice-like size and shape that soaks up sauce beautifully, but small pastas like acini di pepe or Israeli couscous can also be fun substitutes if you want to get creative.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

The shrimp turn pink and opaque when done, and they feel firm but still springy to the touch. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye—they cook very quickly!

Final Thoughts

There is something so incredibly satisfying about this Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe—it’s a symphony of textures and bright, comforting flavors that always leaves me wanting more. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that elevates any mealtime effortlessly. Give it a try and get ready to make it a staple in your dinner rotation.