Go Back

Easy Shrimp and Orzo Skillet with Lemon Basil Butter Sauce

Cozy skillet · Dinner-perfect shrimp recipe · Creamy, smoky tomato flavor with minimal prep
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern-inspired
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp + Seasoning
  • 1 lb 450 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional but recommended
  • 1 tbsp butter for sautéing, or use olive oil
  • Creamy Southern-Style Sauce
  • 4 slices bacon chopped
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 –2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 14–15 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce optional for extra depth
  • 1 tsp hot sauce or to taste (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes optional, for a gentle kick
  • Optional Finish
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. Season the shrimp. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels, then season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Set aside.
  2. Cook the bacon. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp and the fat renders out, about 6–8 minutes.
  3. Sauté the aromatics. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Build the flavor base. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly so it darkens slightly and turns fragrant.
  5. Simmer the sauce. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in oregano and chili flakes (if using). Let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 8–10 minutes.
  6. Make it creamy. Stir in heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Taste and adjust with hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
  7. Cook the shrimp. Add shrimp to the sauce in a single layer. Cook 3–5 minutes, stirring gently, until shrimp are just opaque. Do not overcook.
  8. Finish and serve. Sprinkle with parsley and serve right away with your favorite base (rice, pasta, or bread). Add lemon if you like a bright touch.