This Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Orzo Skillet is the ultimate weeknight dinner quick, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Juicy, garlicky shrimp mingle with tender broccoli and perfectly cooked orzo, all in one pan. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re eating something fancy, but it comes together in just about 30 minutes. Trust me, this is one skillet meal you’ll keep coming back to when you need something comforting and delicious without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect as a stand-alone meal or served with sides.
Budget-Friendly: Shrimp and orzo are affordable yet feel special.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Customizable: Swap veggies or add extra herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will devour this flavorful, satisfying dish.

Ingredients in Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

Here’s the magic of this recipe it’s made with simple, fresh ingredients that deliver big flavor:
Shrimp: Tender, juicy, and cooked with plenty of garlic for a bold, savory bite.
Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors.
Broccoli: Adds color, crunch, and a healthy boost.
Garlic: The star of the dish, giving it a rich and aromatic kick.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Infuses the orzo with flavor as it cooks.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Brightens everything up and balances the richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Melty and nutty, it ties all the flavors together.
Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: The essentials that complete the dish.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to get a nice sear on the shrimp.
Combine Ingredients: Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic. Sauté in olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove and set aside.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In the same skillet, add more garlic and olive oil, then stir in the orzo and toast for a minute for extra flavor.
Assemble the Dish: Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the broccoli and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Cook to Perfection: Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir everything together, adding lemon juice and zest for freshness.
Finishing Touches: Sprinkle Parmesan over the top and stir until creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot straight from the skillet for that cozy, family-style vibe.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 470

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

This dish is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but you can dress it up even more:
Serve with a side salad for added freshness.
Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Top with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley for garnish.
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio makes the perfect pairing.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use large shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
Don’t overcook the shrimp remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
Try adding mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggie variety.
Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream at the end.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I substitute another vegetable for broccoli? Absolutely—spinach, asparagus, or peas all work well.
3. What can I use instead of orzo? Small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice are good alternatives.
4. Can I make it dairy-free? Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
5. Can I cook the orzo separately? You can, but cooking it in the skillet makes it more flavorful.
6. Does this dish reheat well? Yes, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
7. Can I add more protein? Sure, mix in cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
8. Can I make it ahead? It’s best fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead of time.
9. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, it works just as well for a lighter flavor.
10. Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, just use a larger skillet to fit everything comfortably.

Conclusion

This Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Orzo Skillet is the ultimate one-pan wonder garlicky, comforting, and brimming with flavor. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again for that perfect blend of simplicity and taste!

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