Creamy Shrimp and Corn Orzo Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, you’ve got to try my Creamy Shrimp and Corn Orzo Skillet Recipe. It’s this incredible one-pan dish where tender shrimp swim in a luscious, buttery orzo with fresh corn and a hint of brightness from lemon and thyme. Honestly, when I first made this, I couldn’t believe how the flavors came together so perfectly—and the best part? It’s totally doable on a weeknight but special enough to impress anyone at your table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how these ingredients come together to create layers of flavor without being complicated. Plus, most of what you’ll need can be found at your local grocery store—and it’s easy to swap a few things if needed.

• Shrimp: Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture and ease of cooking.
• Cajun or Creole seasoning: Adds a beautiful depth and gentle kick to the shrimp; pick your favorite brand or make your own.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Gives a fruity base flavor and helps everything sear beautifully.
• Butter: For that creamy richness you just can’t fake.
• Yellow or sweet onion: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory spices.
• Poblano pepper: Offers mild heat and smoky flavor—plus, it’s great chopped fine so it blends in perfectly.
• Fresh corn kernels: I recommend fresh for that crunchy pop, but frozen can work in a pinch.
• Garlic cloves: Because garlic makes everything better!
• Dry orzo: Little pasta pearls that soak up all the creamy goodness.
• Vegetable broth: Builds the flavorful cooking liquid for the orzo.
• Coconut milk: For a subtle creaminess that’s also dairy-free friendly if you want to swap butter or reduce it.
• Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight all the flavors.
• Fresh thyme leaves: I love the herbal note it adds—it brightens the whole dish.
• Fresh lemon juice: That splash of acidity pulls everything together perfectly.
• Fresh basil (optional): Provides a fresh, aromatic garnish that’s just the cherry on top.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Creamy Shrimp and Corn Orzo Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I often tweak it depending on what’s in season or what we’re craving that day. Make it your own with these ideas!

• Spicy Kick: When I want more heat, I sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or swap the poblano for a jalapeño—adds that perfect fiery touch without overpowering the creaminess.
• Dairy-Free Swap: I sometimes replace butter with extra coconut oil to keep it vegan, and it still turns out incredibly creamy and delicious.
• Vegetable Boost: Adding chopped zucchini or spinach towards the end adds a fresh, nutritious boost—I love how it brightens the dish.
• Alternative Proteins: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try chicken tenders or even white fish fillets—they cook quickly and soak up the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp and Corn Orzo Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Start by tossing your peeled shrimp with olive oil and that amazing Cajun or Creole seasoning. This coating not only flavors the shrimp but helps create a nice sear. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then cook the shrimp for about 3 to 5 minutes—flip them halfway when you see the edges turn pink. You want a little char but avoid overcooking, which can make shrimp rubbery. Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm while you move on.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Veggies

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil plus butter right in the same skillet. This combo creates a rich, silky backdrop for the veggies. Toss in your diced onion and poblano pepper—cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onions soften and become translucent. Then, stir in the corn kernels and minced garlic, letting everything mingle and soften for another 3 minutes. You’ll notice the kitchen start to fill with cozy, inviting aromas here. Yum!

Step 3: Toast Orzo, Then Simmer to Creamy Perfection

Next, add the dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat it in all those buttery, flavorful bits. Let it cook for about 2 minutes—you’re lightly toasting those pasta pearls, which adds depth to the final dish. Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, followed by salt and pepper. Turn the heat up to bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let everything bubble away uncovered, stirring occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking, for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy. If it thickens too much before the orzo is done, just add a splash more broth or water.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs, Lemon, and Shrimp

The final step is where this recipe shines—stir in the fragrant fresh thyme leaves and a tablespoon of bright lemon juice for that pop of freshness. Nestle your cooked shrimp gently back into the skillet so they warm through without overcooking. Then, squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the top. If you have fresh basil on hand, toss some leaves on as a garnish—it adds a lovely herbal aroma and pretty color that makes this dish feel extra special.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp and Corn Orzo Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with fresh basil leaves and an extra squeeze of lemon just before serving. Sometimes, I’ll add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or even a little grated Parmesan if I’m feeling indulgent. These little touches take the dish from homey to restaurant-worthy in seconds.

Side Dishes

This recipe is hearty enough on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted asparagus to add a fresh crunch. A warm crusty bread or garlic rolls also work beautifully for soaking up that creamy sauce—my family can’t get enough!

Creative Ways to Present

For guests, I’ve served this skillet right at the table in a rustic cast-iron pan garnished with colorful basil and lemon wedges on the side—it’s inviting and makes the meal feel that much more special. You could also portion it into small ramekins and broil for a minute to get a lightly toasted top for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making lunch the next day just as tasty as dinner.

Freezing

While I haven’t frozen the shrimp version personally (shrimp can change texture after freezing), I’ve frozen the base orzo and corn mixture without shrimp—it reheats well and you can quickly add fresh cooked shrimp later for a weeknight win.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring frequently to bring back that perfect creamy consistency. If in a rush, the microwave works fine—just stop to stir every 30 seconds to heat evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Creamy Shrimp and Corn Orzo Skillet Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort meals because it’s easy, flavorful, and somehow feels indulgent without being complicated. I hope you love making (and eating!) it as much as my family and I do. Next time you’re looking for something cozy, creamy, and vibrant all at once, this skillet is your new best friend. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

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