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One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo

February 25, 2022
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea

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Meet your new favorite --- One-Pot Creamy Lemon Herb Parmesan Lobster + Orzo. Packed with flavor, this dish features tender lobster, zesty lemon, herbs, and Parmesan—all in one pot! Surprisingly easy, it's a feast that's seriously satisfying!

One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo

Indulge in the elegance of this One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo recipe. Made with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and rich Parmesan. It's a decadent and over-the-top delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make and ideal for any celebration. The garlicky herb orzo perfectly complements the succulent lobster, making it a feast that's seriously delish and perfect for any night of the week! Plus, you'll learn how to cook lobster tail, which is simpler than you'd imagine. Gluten-free + Dairy-free option.

Overhead shot of Creamy Lobster and Orzo in a Le Creuset Dutch oven

This One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo recipe is ideal for a special occasion-- There's something so fancy feeling about lobster recipes. But the truth is that it's faster and easier to cook than many people think. For this creamy orzo dish, you'll use lobster tails, so there are no messy shells or cracking at the table!

It gets its rich, decadent flavor from cream + cheese, with plenty of brightness from lemon juice and dried herbs. You can even mix up the flavors using your favorite seasonings if you like, my homemade lemon pepper or Italian seasoning go perfectly! Try this recipe for your next dinner party or date night, and you'll be sure to impress..

If you're in the mood for more seafood recipes give Creamy Lobster Bisque, Creamy Tuscan Lobster Pasta, Jerk Lobster Rolls or BBQ Jerk Lobster + Garlic Herb Orzo a shot next—they're absolute winners!

This seafood recipe is all about bringing together vibrant flavors, without too much effort! The mix of savory lobster + creamy orzo is just plain delicious. And the best part is it takes just 35 minutes from start to finish! So, if you're up for a tasty dish without the fuss, this one's your go-to!

Jump to:

What Is Orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that often gets mistaken for rice due to its similar size + shape. Despite its pasta nature, orzo is incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes--- some of my faves are Spicy Curry Vegan Meatballs + Orzo and One Skillet Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo. It also makes a great addition to soups + salads.

Le Creuset Dutch oven

Top Reasons Why You’ll Love This Lobster Dinner

Once you make and eat this — you’ll fall in absolute love. Haha. More importantly, here are also the reasons why you’ll love it the most:

  • It’s super easy to make.
  • Makes for a fancy weeknight or weekend dinner.
  • So well seasoned and full of texture.
  • Great for meal prepping and make aheads for the week!
  • Perfect ANY season vibes!
  • Did I mention, it’s just delicious? Both kids + adults approve!
Overhead shot of Creamy Lobster and Orzo in a Le Creuset Dutch oven

How To Make One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo

This seafood recipe unfolds in two steps: first, cooking the jerk lobster tails to perfection, and then diving into preparing and seasoning the creamy herby orzo.

Ingredients

Here's what you need to make this one-pot lobster recipe:

  • Lobster tails. You can find these at your local seafood market. If you're using frozen lobster, be sure it's defrosted first.
  • Garlic. I use a combination of fresh and powdered garlic for this dish.
  • Butter. I recommend unsalted.
  • Dried herbs. This creamy lobster is flavored with dried parsley, basil, oregano, smoked paprika.
  • Chicken stock. You can make your own or use low-sodium store-bought stock.
  • Cream. Heavy cream enriches your orzo with the best flavor. I love using the brand Organic Valley. (See dairy-free option below).
  • White wine. You can use cooking wine or any bottle that you like.
  • Lemon juice. Fresh is best!
  • Parmesan. I recommend using freshly grated parm, not pre-grated, for the best flavor.
  • Orzo. You can use white orzo or multi-color.
  • Kale. Be sure to chop your kale into bite-sized pieces. You can also use spinach or chard if you like.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SEAFOOD DISH!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo. Everything from my fave loaf pan, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Overhead shot of Creamy Lobster and Orzo

Tips for Making One-Pot Creamy Lobster

Don't be intimidated to cook lobster at home. It's easier than you think! In fact, lobster is easier to cook than fish in some ways because it has a natural barrier, the shell, that protects the tender meat inside from overcooking.

Keep these tips in mind when cooking your lobster and orzo:

  • Use a lobster cracker to crack open the tails. If you don't have one, you can use a pair of kitchen shears to cut a line up the center of the tails. Then gently pull the meat out of the shells so it rests on top. The meat will remain attached to the shell, but exposed for searing.
  • This is a very flavorful dish, with lots of seasoning. If you prefer a more mild flavor, you can reduce the amount of spices and herbs.
  • Orzo is a variety of pasta. If you'd like to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute orzo with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cook according to package instructions.

What Else Can I Add To This Dish?

The beauty of this seafood dish lies in its versatility--- Here are some fantastic additions you can consider to elevate your seafood feast:

  • Grate some lemon or lime zest to add a zesty kick.
  • Herb roasted tomatoes
  • Kales or spinach for some extra greens!
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Chopped nuts, pecans or pine nuts bring a delightful crunch.
  • Asparagus
  • Cauliflower
  • Zucchini
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Sweet potatoes or roasted butternut squash
  • Shrimp, Scallops, etc.
  • Garlic bread on the side is also a delicious option!
  • And more!
Closeup of Creamy Lobster and Orzo

Health Benefits Of Lobster Tails

This mouthwatering seafood dinner isn't just delicious --- it's nutritious. Check out the lineup of healthy benefits that come with every delicious bite:

High-quality protein--- They are a rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle health and overall body function.

Low in saturated fat--- Lobster tails are low in saturated fat, making them a heart-healthy protein option.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid--- Lobster contains omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamins + minerals--- Lobster provides essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and copper.

Shellfish-specific nutrients---Lobster contains unique nutrients found in shellfish, such as astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant.

Hand using a spoon to scoop Creamy Lobster and Orzo from a Le Creuset Dutch oven

One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo Q + A's

How to store leftovers?

This dish is best when it's hot out of the pot. But if you end up with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Be careful when reheating to avoid over cooking the lobster. I recommend using the microwave in 30-second intervals, until heated through.

How to make this lobster recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, simply use vegan butter instead of the regular butter. Then swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. And use your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. 

How do I know when the lobster tails are perfectly cooked?

Lobster is cooked when the meat is opaque and firm, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I substitute the lobster with another type of seafood?

Yes, you can! Shrimp or scallops work well with the seasoning and pair beautifully with the orzo.

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster tails work well. Thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.

More Delicious Seafood Recipes

If you enjoyed One-Pot Creamy Lobster + Orzo recipe, definitely throw these mouthwatering seafood recipes onto your "must-make next" list:

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this One-Pot Creamy Lemon Herb Parmesan Lobster + Orzo recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Closeup of Creamy Lobster and Orzo

One-Pot Creamy Lemon Herb Parmesan Lobster + Orzo

February 25, 2022
5 from 1 vote
Indulge in the elegance of One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and rich Parmesan. It's a decadent and over-the-top delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make and ideal for any celebration. The garlicky herb orzo perfectly complements the succulent lobster, making it a feast that's seriously delish and perfect for any night of the week! Plus, you'll learn how to cook lobster tail, which is simpler than you'd imagine. Gluten-free + Dairy-free option.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

LOBSTER:

  • 4 (6 oz.) wild lobster tails
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 Tbsps unsalted butter

ORZO:

  • 1 cup orzo, original or multi-color
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken stock, low-sodium (You can also use seafood stock, if preferred)
  • 1 cup organic heavy cream
  • 2 Tbsps white cooking wine
  • 1 tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups kale, de-stemmed + roughly chopped

GARNISH:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Dried or fresh parsley

Instructions

PREPARE THE LOBSTER TAILS:

  • To prep lobster tails, slightly crack shell and remove most of lobster meat outside of shell without completely detaching shell from meat. NOTE: This allows the lobster meat to fully cook through with shell blocking it.

SEAR THE LOBSTER:

  • In large skillet (12-inch) or braiser over medium-high heat, add the butter until melted. Add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden. Add the prepped lobster tails (flesh side downward) and let them sear for 3-4 minutes or until golden and the tails begin to change to a bright "red" color. Remove tails from the pan and place unto a plate.

COOK EVERYTHING TOGETHER:

  • In the same skillet (or braiser), add the garlic powder, parsley, basil, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt, stirring it together with the sautéed garlic. Add the chicken stock, heavy cream, white cooking wine, lemon juice, chopped kale, and parmesan, stirring until combined and everything begins to bubble. Lastly, add the lobster tails back into the pan atop the orzo (slightly nestling them in).
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let everything cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasional to ensure that orzo doesn't stick to the bottom. NOTE: If the liquids dry out before the orzo cooks through, add an additional ½ cup of chicken stock (at a time).
  • Once done, the orzo should slightly swell and become tender and everything should be creamy.
  • To serve, spoon cooked orzo + lobster unto a plate and garnish with a bit of dried parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired.
  • Bon Appétit!

Tips & Tricks

  • STORAGE: Place any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
  • GREENS: If preferred, you can always add greens other than Kale, like Spinach or Collard Greens to soup for more richness.
  • SPICES/HERBS: If desired, you can reduce the amounts slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.

Nutrition

Calories: 605kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 25g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 120mg | Sodium: 1116mg | Potassium: 516mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 5046IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 387mg | Iron: 2mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

One-Pot Creamy Lobster and Orzo.

Shanika

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