One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, then you’ve found it with this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! This recipe is a favorite of mine because it brings together simple ingredients and flavors in a way that feels special. The creamy orzo, tender shrimp, and rich Parmesan create a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, the best part? You only need one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

This dish is not just about convenience; it’s also packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it up for your loved ones or enjoying it as a comforting dinner just for yourself, I promise this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pan meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Creamy and Comforting: The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a rich sauce that clings to the orzo beautifully, giving every bite an indulgent feel.
• Family-Friendly: With flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
• Versatile Ingredients: Using simple ingredients means you can easily adjust based on what you have on hand. It’s all about making it work for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish! You’ll find that they are simple yet incredibly flavorful.

For the Orzo Dish

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (or vegetable broth for a veggie option)
• 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
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken breast or even cooked sausage for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers while cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños during the sautéing step.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter 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. This step builds the flavorful foundation of the dish. Sautéing the onion until translucent brings out their sweetness while the garlic adds depth to every bite.

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 and helps it absorb broth better. If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet now—this adds acidity and depth while deglazing any browned bits from cooking. Let it simmer briefly before moving on.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Next, pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed and orzo is al dente. This covered simmer allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet now! Gently stir in the shrimp so they nestle among the orzo; make sure they’re mostly submerged. Cover again and cook them for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through—watch closely as shrimp can overcook quickly!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove your skillet from heat once shrimp are done! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a creamy sauce that envelops everything beautifully. The residual heat does all the work here—so satisfying!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Now it’s time to brighten things up! Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley—this adds freshness that balances out all that richness from earlier steps. Don’t forget to taste-test again; adjust seasoning if needed!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp hot right away! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired along with more fresh parsley for that pop of color. Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can be a rewarding experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavors in this dish significantly. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also provide the best texture and aroma.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so watch them closely. They are done when they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they remain tender and juicy rather than rubbery.

• Adjust the Liquid: Depending on your desired creaminess, feel free to adjust the amount of broth or heavy cream. Adding a bit more can create a saucier dish if that’s what you prefer!

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Don’t hesitate to taste your dish at different stages of cooking to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presenting your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Extra Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds an irresistible cheesiness and enhances the flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside gives guests the option to add a fresh squeeze of citrus, brightening up each bite.
• Fresh Herbs: Additional chopped parsley or even basil can add color and freshness, making the dish look vibrant and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread complements this creamy orzo beautifully, providing a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft pasta.
• Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella (or a non-dairy alternative), basil, and balsamic drizzle adds a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the main dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a nutritious side that adds a pop of color to your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots can enhance both presentation and flavor while adding healthy components to your meal.

Enjoy making this delightful One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Whether it’s for family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a fantastic option for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover orzo with shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• You can also microwave it; just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

While this recipe specifically calls for orzo due to its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors, you could substitute another small pasta like ditalini or couscous. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta used.

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

To make this dish vegetarian, replace shrimp with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to your dish. This will help achieve that lovely browning and prevent excess moisture.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter version. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!

How do I add more flavor to my One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Feel free to add extra herbs like thyme or basil during cooking, or consider tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as much as I do! It’s a comforting yet elegant dish that brings together simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for your busy week ahead, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!