One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, you’ve found it! This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is one of my all-time favorites. It combines tender shrimp, creamy orzo, and a rich parmesan sauce in a simple, one-pan preparation. Just imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks—it’s enough to make anyone feel at home.

What makes this dish special is how quickly it comes together without sacrificing flavor. You can easily whip it up after a long day or impress your guests at your next dinner party. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and shrimp appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients easily to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Main Dish

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (low-sodium)
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas during the cooking process for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes if you’re looking to give your dish a kick!
• Experiment with cheese: Try using different cheeses like feta or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.

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 releases its sweetness while making the garlic aromatic without burning it.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor and helps absorb the broth better. If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet next and let it simmer briefly while scraping any browned bits from the bottom. A little deglazing adds depth to our sauce!

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 lowering the heat to low; cover it up! Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is nearly cooked through. This step ensures even cooking while infusing wonderful flavors into each grain of pasta.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently stir in those beautiful shrimp! Nestle them among the orzo so they soak up all that delicious broth. Cover again and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque—cooking them just right keeps them tender rather than rubbery.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Once cooked through, remove from heat before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a smooth sauce. The residual heat will work its magic here! This creates that rich creaminess you crave.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley into your dish. Taste it now—adjust seasoning as needed! The brightness from lemon balances out all that creamy richness beautifully while parsley adds freshness.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired—this dish is best enjoyed right away while still warm and creamy.

Now that you’ve got everything you need to make this hearty One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe, I hope you’ll give it a try soon! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Creating a delightful One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is easier than you might think, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and good-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor. The better your ingredients, the more delicious your dish will be!

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook. They only need a few minutes to turn pink and opaque; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture that detracts from the dish.

• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream or a splash of broth at the end. This lets you customize the consistency according to your taste.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also brighten up your plate!

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking helps it thicken up slightly and allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving this dish is just as important as cooking it! A well-presented meal not only tastes better but also makes for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Extra Grated Parmesan: Sprinkling additional grated Parmesan on top just before serving enhances both presentation and flavor, making it even cheesier!
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Besides parsley, consider using basil or chives for an herbaceous touch that complements the dish’s richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any remaining creamy sauce. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs wonderfully with the richness of the orzo.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness while adding a bit of crunch. It’s an elegant side that complements both flavor and texture.
• Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious green vegetable offers a nice crunch and bright color. Its mild flavor won’t overpower your main dish but will enhance its appeal visually and nutritionally.

Now you’re ready to dive into this delightful recipe! Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your experience with others!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, creamy goodness throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for lunches or dinners, this dish can be stored and reheated easily.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate promptly after serving to maintain freshness.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label your containers with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may arise while preparing this delightful dish.

Can I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp without using apple vinegar?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use apple vinegar, simply replace it with additional chicken broth. The dish will still be rich and flavorful!

How can I adjust the recipe for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp for a vegetarian option?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute shrimp with your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of shrimp works best for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Medium to large shrimp are ideal as they provide a satisfying bite. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for convenience!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan in this recipe?

While Parmesan adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if desired. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall taste slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this creamy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventures with me!