One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a comforting yet elegant dish that feels just as right on a busy weeknight as it does at a family gathering, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem with this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all while being wonderfully easy to prepare in just one pan! I love how the orzo absorbs all the delicious broth and pairs perfectly with tender shrimp, making every bite a delightful experience.

This recipe is especially dear to me because it brings together simple ingredients that create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just treating yourself to a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, and dinner comes together in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Comforting and Delicious: The combination of Parmesan cheese and shrimp creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a more special gathering, this dish fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together beautifully in this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that creamy, dreamy dish we’re after!

For the Pasta

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• White Apple Vinegar: ½ cup (optional)
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup

For the Flavor Base

• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons

For the Main Ingredients

• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated plus extra for serving
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped

For Seasoning

• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during the cooking process for added color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes if you like some heat; it adds an exciting kick!

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. This step builds the flavorful foundation of the dish by releasing the sweet aromas of onion while mellowing out the raw bite of garlic.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. This light toasting enhances its nutty flavor. If you’re 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 that makes your sauce even more delicious!

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed. This covered simmering allows the orzo to cook evenly while soaking up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet and gently stir in shrimp. Nestle them amongst the orzo so they’re mostly submerged. Cover again for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Keep an eye on them; shrimp cook quickly! They are done when they turn pink and opaque—overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove your skillet from heat once shrimp are done. Now’s the time to stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a smooth sauce. The residual heat will help blend everything into that rich consistency we crave.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley now—this brightens up all those flavors! Taste your dish at this point; feel free to adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot from the stove topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired! Enjoy this creamy delight right away while it’s warm—it’s truly best when fresh!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you elevate your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp to perfection!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Choosing fresh shrimp and good quality Parmesan cheese makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also provide better texture and overall satisfaction.

• Don’t rush the sautéing process: Taking your time to properly sauté the onion and garlic builds a strong flavor base for your dish. This step helps to release their natural sugars and aromas, making your orzo even more delicious.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is crucial in any recipe. By tasting the dish at different stages of cooking, you can adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings to match your palate perfectly.

• Use a large enough skillet: A spacious pan allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding. This ensures each shrimp cooks properly and that the orzo has enough room to absorb the flavors without sticking together.

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This short resting period enhances the overall taste experience when you dig in!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presentation can elevate your dining experience, making it feel special even on a weeknight! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delicious dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds vibrant color and a fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze extra juice over their portions for an added citrus kick.
• Extra grated Parmesan: Offering additional cheese for sprinkling gives everyone the chance to customize their cheesy goodness!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Simple yet satisfying, warm garlic bread pairs beautifully with orzo, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add both nutrition and flavor complexity. Think bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and nutrition while complementing the richness of the main dish effortlessly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will not only be a culinary success but also a beautiful centerpiece at your dining table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a larger batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, avoid adding additional cheese or garnishes until serving.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, consume within a month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

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

Absolutely! While this recipe features orzo, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used.

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

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply replace the shrimp with your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious meat-free meal.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You could also enjoy it with crusty bread for soaking up that creamy sauce!

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before adding them to the skillet for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together wonderful flavors in just one pot. Enjoy creating this recipe in your kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to savor every bite. Happy cooking!