Description
Creamy Hot Honey Shrimp Orzo is a rich one-pan dinner featuring tender shrimp, toasted orzo, garlic, Parmesan, and a silky cream sauce finished with sweet and spicy hot honey. This quick restaurant-quality meal is packed with bold flavors and comes together in about 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup hot honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
- Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, hot honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.
- Freshly grated Parmesan creates the smoothest sauce.
- Adjust the amount of hot honey to control the sweetness and spice.
- Add baby spinach or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American