One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, then you’ve found it! One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is one of those recipes that warms the heart and fills the belly. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a favorite at my dinner table. Plus, the best part? Everything cooks in just one pan, which means less cleanup for you!

This dish combines tender shrimp with a rich Parmesan sauce that coats the orzo beautifully. Whether it’s a cozy night in or you’re entertaining friends, this recipe will surely impress. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those hectic evenings.
• One Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze—more time to enjoy your meal!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy orzo and succulent shrimp; it’s sure to please picky eaters.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce that feels like a warm hug.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe with different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp—just simple, wholesome staples that you might already have in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dish

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian 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 things about this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is how flexible it is! You can easily make this dish your own with a few simple tweaks:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes right before serving for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, feel free to substitute it with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat in your meals.

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 these aromatics builds the flavorful foundation of the dish.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. This step 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.

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 and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed. This allows the orzo to absorb all those wonderful flavors!

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently stir in shrimp so they’re nestled among the orzo. Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them—nobody likes rubbery shrimp!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a creamy sauce. The residual heat will help create that luscious texture we all love.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley. This brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. This dish truly shines when enjoyed immediately while warm!

Now go ahead—dive into that comforting bowl of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! I can’t wait to hear how much you love it!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Creating a delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is all about the details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and good quality Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients bring brightness and authenticity, making each bite more enjoyable.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can turn rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them, and as soon as they are pink and opaque, it’s time to take them off the heat for the best texture.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Start with a little salt and pepper, then adjust to your liking. This helps you achieve the perfect balance without overpowering any single flavor in the dish.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal. Dried herbs won’t provide the same bright freshness that complements the creamy sauce.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help thicken up any remaining sauce and meld the flavors beautifully. This patience pays off in taste!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presenting your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp in an appealing way can make your meal feel extra special. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Extra Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds a delightful cheesy finish that looks great and tastes even better.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add a bit of zesty brightness to their dish, enhancing the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Fresh Basil or Chives: These herbs can provide an aromatic touch that complements the other ingredients while adding visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a classic pairing that can soak up any leftover sauce, making it a perfect companion for this creamy dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green color and slight crunch of steamed broccoli add a lovely contrast in both flavor and texture, plus they’re nutritious!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the orzo.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can add depth and additional flavors while keeping everything healthy.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, creamy dish throughout the week. With just a few simple steps, you can make it ahead of time and store it for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for best taste and quality.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming up.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
• Stir occasionally and add a little broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.
• You can also use the microwave; just stir every minute until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

Can I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

How do I know when my shrimp are done in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Shrimp are cooked perfectly when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, or they may become rubbery!

Can I prepare One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge and can be made ahead for easy meal prep during the week.

What other vegetables can I add to One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables such as spinach, peas, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s special because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in one pot. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish truly brings comfort to your table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors! Happy cooking!