Ingredients
✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love
Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.
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Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
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Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric
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CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L
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Equipment
Method
Step 1 – Cook the Orzo
- Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil.
- Cook orzo until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Step 2 – Sear the Prawns
- Pat prawns dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add prawns and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter.
- Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chili flakes (if using) and lemon juice.
- Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 4 – Combine & Serve
- Add cooked orzo to the skillet along with reserved pasta water.
- Stir in Parmesan (if using) until creamy.
- Return prawns to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water. Freezer: Best eaten fresh; freezing may alter prawn texture. 🥄 Variations
Extra Creamy: Add ¼ cup heavy cream before combining with prawns. Veggie Boost: Stir in baby spinach or peas. Zesty Twist: Add extra lemon zest for brightness. Spicy Kick: Increase chili flakes for more heat. ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns? Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking. Can I swap orzo for rice? Yes, but cooking time will be longer. What broth is best? Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth works for pescatarian. Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and skip Parmesan. Will shrimp work instead of prawns? Absolutely. Can I add wine? Yes, replace ¼ cup broth with white wine (optional). How do I stop prawns from becoming rubbery? Cook just until pink and opaque, then remove from heat. Can I meal-prep this? Best made fresh, but can be reheated within 2 days. What side dishes go well? Garlic bread or a crisp green salad. Can I double the recipe? Yes, but cook prawns in batches to avoid overcrowding. 🏁 Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Prawn Orzo is simple yet indulgent, combining buttery richness, garlicky depth, and tender pasta for the ultimate seafood pasta dinner. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy, delicious meal.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water. Freezer: Best eaten fresh; freezing may alter prawn texture. 🥄 Variations
Extra Creamy: Add ¼ cup heavy cream before combining with prawns. Veggie Boost: Stir in baby spinach or peas. Zesty Twist: Add extra lemon zest for brightness. Spicy Kick: Increase chili flakes for more heat. ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns? Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking. Can I swap orzo for rice? Yes, but cooking time will be longer. What broth is best? Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth works for pescatarian. Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and skip Parmesan. Will shrimp work instead of prawns? Absolutely. Can I add wine? Yes, replace ¼ cup broth with white wine (optional). How do I stop prawns from becoming rubbery? Cook just until pink and opaque, then remove from heat. Can I meal-prep this? Best made fresh, but can be reheated within 2 days. What side dishes go well? Garlic bread or a crisp green salad. Can I double the recipe? Yes, but cook prawns in batches to avoid overcrowding. 🏁 Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Prawn Orzo is simple yet indulgent, combining buttery richness, garlicky depth, and tender pasta for the ultimate seafood pasta dinner. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy, delicious meal.