One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a comforting yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress, then this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe is just what you need! This meal combines tender shrimp and creamy orzo pasta, all cooked in a single pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your home!

What makes this dish so special is how the flavors meld together beautifully and the ease of preparation. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together and how satisfying each bite is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze! You’ll have more time to relax after dinner.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and shrimp creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will adore.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy dish, making it perfect for family meals.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for easy substitutions based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is simple! These wholesome ingredients work together to create a delicious meal that feels special yet can be made any night of the week.

For the Dish:

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (low-sodium recommended)
• White apple vinegar: ½ cup (optional)
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (unsalted)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (extra virgin)
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Variations

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or even scallops instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan and use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sautéing the onion until translucent releases its sweetness while cooking the garlic brings out its aroma.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor. If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet now. Let it simmer briefly while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process adds depth of flavor to our sauce!

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for approximately 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is almost cooked through.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover the skillet gently stir in the shrimp. Position them amidst the orzo so they’re mostly submerged in liquid. Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove the skillet from heat before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a creamy sauce. The residual heat will help create that luxurious texture we love!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley. Taste your creation now—adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed! The lemon juice brightens everything up while fresh parsley adds both color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot right away! Garnish each bowl with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy every creamy bite while it’s warm—it’s truly comfort food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Creating a delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is easy, but a few tips can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. They’ll elevate your dish from good to spectacular.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they only need 3-5 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become tough, so it’s best to remove them from heat as soon as they’re done.

• Toast the Orzo: Taking a couple of minutes to toast the orzo in the skillet before adding the broth will bring out its nutty flavor. This simple step adds depth to your dish.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially after adding cream and cheese. This allows you to find that perfect balance of flavors.

• Let it Sit Before Serving: If possible, let the finished dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation! Here are some thoughtful ideas to showcase your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a refreshing herbaceous note that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest on top just before serving enhances the citrus aroma and brightness, making each bite feel vibrant.
• Extra Grated Parmesan: Offering additional grated Parmesan on the side gives guests the option to add more creaminess according to their taste preference.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that makes for an excellent vessel for soaking up any extra creamy sauce left on your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious green element to your meal while providing a lovely contrast in texture and color.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the orzo.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus has an earthy flavor that pairs well with shrimp dishes, plus its bright green color adds visual appeal to your dining table.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days just a little bit easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space in each container for expansion when freezing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp without shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian option. Just add them in during the cooking process so they become tender.

How do I store One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for later enjoyment!

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini if you prefer. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as you go.

What should I serve with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as delightful as I do! It’s not only creamy and comforting but also simple enough for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!