Baked Lemon Feta Shrimp with Garlic Orzo Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that effortlessly combines bright, zesty flavors with creamy, savory goodness, you are absolutely going to adore this Baked Lemon Feta Shrimp with Garlic Orzo. Imagine succulent shrimp baked to perfection with tangy lemon and salty feta, all resting atop a bed of buttery, garlicky orzo that’s bursting with flavor. This is one of those recipes that feels fancy while being incredibly simple to make, making it a wonderful choice for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without the stress. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of textures and a vibrant Mediterranean flair that’ll have you hooked from the very first forkful.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to making the magic happen. Each element in this recipe has its own job—whether it’s adding brightness, creaminess, or bold seasoning—so having fresh, quality components really makes a difference. The ingredients are straightforward, but they come together to create layers of fantastic flavor and texture.

• Shrimp (500g peeled & deveined): Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, and peeling saves you time in the kitchen.
• Olive oil (4 tbsp total): Adds richness and helps bring out the flavors when cooking both shrimp and orzo.
• Garlic (6 cloves minced): Provides a fragrant, savory punch that complements both the shrimp and orzo perfectly.
• Lemon (zest and juice of 1½ lemons): Brings that signature citrus brightness that lifts the whole dish.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a gentle smoky warmth, balancing the tartness of the lemon and feta.
• Dried oregano (1 tsp): Brings a touch of herbaceous Mediterranean flavor that ties everything together.
• Salt and black pepper (½ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper for shrimp, plus seasoning for orzo): Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the dish.
• Feta cheese (150g crumbled): Creamy and tangy, feta melts slightly in the oven and adds a wonderful salty creaminess to the shrimp.
• Fresh parsley (2 tbsp chopped): A fresh, herbaceous garnish that adds color and a little bite at the end.
• Orzo (1½ cups): This tiny pasta cooks quickly and serves as a perfect canvas for garlic and lemon flavors.
• Broth (3 cups vegetable or chicken): Adds savory depth and cooks the orzo tender without it getting mushy.
• Butter (optional 1 tbsp): Stirred into the orzo at the end for extra creaminess and indulgence.

How to Make Baked Lemon Feta Shrimp with Garlic Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F) to get a nice hot environment for baking. In a large bowl, toss your shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade infuses the shrimp with incredible Mediterranean-style flavors. Transfer everything to a baking dish and sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the top. Pop the dish in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and firm to the touch—that’s your cue they’re perfectly cooked. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lively color and brightness.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Orzo

While the shrimp bake, get the garlic orzo going. Warm olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add minced garlic, sautéing just until you can smell that irresistible aroma—about 30 seconds. Next, add the orzo and toast it for a minute, stirring continuously so it doesn’t stick or burn. Pour in your broth along with a pinch of salt and black pepper, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook the orzo uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid—roughly 10 to 12 minutes. Stir in a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and, if you’re feeling indulgent, a tablespoon of butter to make the orzo beautifully creamy.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

When your shrimp are baked and your orzo is ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Spoon a hearty serving of the garlic lemon orzo onto plates and top it with the warm, feta-topped shrimp. Add an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley and a final squeeze of lemon juice if you love that bright citrus kick. This simple yet elegant plating lets the vibrant colors and flavors shine.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Feta Shrimp with Garlic Orzo

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley is a perfect garnish—it adds a fresh, herbaceous pop and an inviting splash of green. You can also add thin lemon wedges on the side for guests who love an extra burst of citrus.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. A crusty bread or warm pita is also great for mopping up any delicious leftover juices and feta crumble.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the shrimp and orzo in individual shallow bowls or rustic ramekins. Layer the orzo on the bottom with shrimp on top, finished with a sprig of parsley. For a dinner party, consider placing the shrimp mixture on a large serving platter and surround it with orzo on the side, encouraging guests to build their own plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Baked Lemon Feta Shrimp with Garlic Orzo, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within two days to enjoy the shrimp at their freshest and to maintain the orzo’s texture.

Freezing

While the orzo tends to lose some texture after freezing, you can freeze the shrimp separately in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to a month. To keep flavors intact, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist. Avoid microwaving on high power as it can dry out the shrimp and orzo unevenly. Heating slowly preserves the creaminess and keeps the shrimp tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to prevent watering down the flavors and ensure the best texture.

Is orzo the only pasta option I can use here?

You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even tiny couscous if you prefer, but orzo’s texture and size complement the shrimp and feta perfectly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, simply omit the feta and butter, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Adding a squeeze of extra lemon juice helps retain brightness in the dish.

How spicy is the paprika in this dish?

The paprika used here is mild and adds warmth rather than heat. If you want a little kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp marinade and make the garlic orzo separately in advance, then bake the shrimp just before serving. This is a great way to save time and still serve the dish fresh and piping hot.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with Baked Lemon Feta Shrimp with Garlic Orzo as a go-to recipe when you want something impressive yet comforting. It’s bright, flavorful, and comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy evenings or special occasions. Give it a try and I promise it will become one of your favorite dishes to come back to again and again!