One-Pan Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon Orzo

Name: One-Pan Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Salmon fillet, skin removed and cubed; Olive oil; Salt; Black pepper; Garlic powder; Italian seasoning; Paprika; Dijon mustard; Lemon juice; Butter; Olive oil; Cooking wine, optional; Shallot, minced; Garlic cloves, minced; Orzo pasta; Low-sodium chicken broth; Heavy cream, room temp; Butter; Parmesan cheese, grated; Lemon juice; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Mozzarella, shredded (optional)

Buttery salmon and zesty lemon meet creamy garlic orzo—all in one pan. A comforting weeknight dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

One-Pan Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon Orzo 🍋🐟

If you’re craving a cozy seafood pasta dish that’s bright, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this One-Pan Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon Orzo is the answer. Imagine buttery salmon cubes seared until golden, paired with garlicky orzo pasta simmered in a zesty lemon cream sauce. All made in one pan for easy cleanup—perfect for weeknight dinners!

This recipe strikes the balance between comfort food and elegance, making it just as great for a quick family meal as it is for a special dinner. ✨

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Orzo

🥘 One-Pan Wonder – minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
🐟 Perfectly Seared Salmon – golden on the outside, tender inside.
🍋 Bright & Creamy – garlic, lemon, cream, and parmesan create a luxurious sauce.
⏱️ Weeknight-Friendly – ready in just about 40 minutes.

Key Ingredients

Salmon fillet – cubed and seasoned with Dijon, paprika, and lemon juice.
Orzo pasta – toasted lightly before simmering in broth for that nutty depth.
Garlic & shallots – the aromatic base of the dish.
Heavy cream & parmesan – give the sauce its rich creaminess.
Fresh lemon juice – lifts the flavors and balances the richness.

Optional mozzarella adds an extra layer of indulgence, while parsley keeps things fresh. 🌿

Step-by-Step Method

Prepare the salmon – Toss cubes with olive oil, Dijon, lemon juice, and spices. Sear until golden, then baste with butter and set aside.
Cook the orzo – Deglaze with cooking wine, sauté shallots and garlic, then toast the orzo. Add broth and simmer until creamy.
Finish the sauce – Stir in cream, butter, parmesan, lemon juice, and optional mozzarella.
Combine & serve – Nestle the salmon back into the creamy orzo, sprinkle parsley, and serve hot.

Pro Tips 💡

Swap salmon with chicken for a tasty variation.
Don’t overcook the salmon—remove from the pan once golden and let it finish gently.
Stir the orzo while simmering to avoid sticking and ensure creaminess.

FAQs ❓

Can I swap the salmon for chicken?
Yes! Just cook the chicken through before adding it to the orzo.

Should I add mozzarella with fish?
Totally optional—skip if you’re a traditionalist, or add it for extra creaminess.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the broth level—add a splash more if it looks too dry.

This creamy lemon garlic salmon orzo is a restaurant-quality dish made simple at home. Perfect for when you want something zesty, comforting, and indulgent—all in one pan. 🍋🐟🥂