One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This dish is not only simple and comforting but also beautifully creamy, making it a favorite in our household. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen or for family gatherings where everyone will gather around to enjoy every last bite.

What I love most about this recipe is that it comes together in one pan, which means less cleanup for you! The combination of tender shrimp, rich Parmesan, and perfectly cooked orzo makes it a standout dish. Plus, the fresh flavors of lemon and parsley add just the right touch to elevate your dinner experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making it easy to prepare and clean up.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and delightful flavors.
• Quick Cooking Time: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for hectic evenings!
• Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich and satisfying, this dish is sure to become a regular at your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, creating a creamy texture in this one-pan dish. Look for good quality orzo for the best results.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. It provides the liquid base for cooking the orzo and infuses it with savory flavor. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced. Onion forms the aromatic base of the dish, adding sweetness and complexity as it cooks down.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic is essential for flavor, complementing the shrimp and Parmesan beautifully.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness and helps create a flavorful base for sautéing.

For Creaminess

• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness that coats the orzo and shrimp perfectly.

For Flavor

• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to finish off the dish.

For Seasoning

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Add a hint of heat if desired.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Variations

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or scallops if you want to change up the main ingredient!
• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try using feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for extra heat!

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if using. Cook until fragrant but be careful not to burn your garlic! Sautéing these ingredients builds a flavorful foundation that makes your dish truly special.

Step 2: Add Orzo

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor while preparing it to absorb all those wonderful brothy flavors coming next! If you’re using white grape juice, pour it in now too—this step brings depth to our sauce through deglazing any tasty bits stuck on your pan.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper into your skillet mixture; bring everything to a boil! Once boiling reduces heat to low, cover it up tightly so that steam can work its magic during simmering—about 10-12 minutes until most liquid has absorbed by now!

Step 4: Add Shrimp

Uncover that glorious pan now! Gently stir in shrimp next; nestle them among those beautiful grains of pasta ensuring they’re mostly submerged so they cook evenly too! Cover again; let them simmer away another few minutes until they turn pink—that’s when you’ll know they’re ready!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Take your skillet off heat once done cooking shrimp; stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until it’s melted into perfection creating an irresistibly creamy sauce coating every bit of pasta surrounding those lovely shrimp!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice

Before serving up this delightful creation stir through fresh lemon juice & chopped parsley giving it brightness against all richness from earlier ingredients! Don’t forget tasting before serving—adjust seasoning as you see fit!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished generously with extra Parmesan cheese & fresh parsley if desired—you’ll want everyone digging into this deliciousness right away while it’s still warm & creamy!

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as much as I do—happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can be a delightful experience when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve, especially with a dish as creamy and comforting as this one!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and quality cheese not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall texture of the dish. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste and elevate any recipe.
• Toast Your Orzo: Giving your orzo a quick toast before adding liquid brings out its nuttiness. This step ensures that every bite is full of flavor, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
• Check Shrimp for Doneness: Be vigilant when cooking shrimp; they should be pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them to ensure they are perfectly tender.
• Adjust Seasoning as You Go: Tasting your dish throughout the cooking process allows you to adjust the seasoning perfectly. A little extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice at the end can make all the difference!
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows flavors to meld together even more, enhancing your overall dining experience.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presenting a meal is just as important as preparing it! This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp looks stunning when garnished right and served alongside complementary dishes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds vibrant color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Grating some additional Parmesan on top just before serving provides an appealing finish that cheese lovers will appreciate.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their dish, brightening flavors even further.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. Its crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the softness of the orzo.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of green and offers a fresh crunch that pairs well with the richness of the main dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A mixed greens salad with vinaigrette provides acidity and freshness, balancing out the butteriness of the orzo while adding crispness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and sweetness, making for a colorful plate that complements the savory shrimp perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will not only taste amazing but look fantastic too! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only a delightful dish but also perfect for meal prep! It stores well, allowing you to enjoy this creamy, flavorful meal on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation buildup.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo for this recipe?

While orzo is ideal for its quick cooking time and creamy texture, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly!

How do I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition!

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Additionally, some crusty bread would be great for soaking up that delicious sauce!

Can I use frozen shrimp in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Pat them dry to ensure they brown nicely when added to the pan.

Is One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!