One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that can be made in one pot, look no further than this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only incredibly delicious but also so easy to prepare. The combination of creamy Parmesan cheese, succulent shrimp, and tender orzo creates a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

This dish is truly special because it brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will surely impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy evenings when you want something homemade without the fuss.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, you’ll save time on both cooking and cleaning up afterward.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The rich flavors of Parmesan and shrimp blend beautifully with the orzo, creating a creamy texture that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences!
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore this dish! It’s a great way to introduce them to new flavors while keeping mealtime exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this recipe, you’ll need just a handful of items that come together to create something truly delicious.

Ingredients:
– Orzo Pasta: 1 pound. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
– Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined. Use medium to large shrimp for a satisfying bite.
– Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Low-sodium chicken broth works best to control saltiness. Vegetable broth can be substituted.
– White Apple Vinegar: ½ cup (optional). Adds depth; if not used, substitute with more chicken broth.
– Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced. Forms the aromatic base of the dish.
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Essential for flavor; freshly minced is always best!
– Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated makes all the difference.
– Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Adds richness and creates a velvety sauce.
– Butter: 2 tablespoons. Provides flavor when sautéing aromatics.
– Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor.
– Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Brightens the flavors wonderfully!
– Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Adds color and freshness at the end.
– Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). For those who enjoy a little heat!
– Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Variations

One of the best parts about this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken breast or even scallops instead!
• Add veggies: Throw in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for an added boost of nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños!
• Herb upgrade: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or chives to change up the flavor profile.

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 a flavorful foundation for your dish—onions become sweet while garlic releases its delicious aroma!

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1–2 minutes while stirring constantly. This step enhances its nutty flavor! If you choose to use white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet now; let it simmer briefly while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds depth to your sauce.

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 liquid is absorbed. Covering allows even cooking as the orzo absorbs all those lovely flavors!

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently stir in shrimp—nestle them among the orzo so they’re mostly submerged in liquid. Cover again and cook for another 3–5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through! Be careful not to overcook them; they should be tender yet firm.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a creamy sauce! The residual heat will work wonders here as everything blends into deliciousness.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley—taste it all! Adjust seasoning as needed; fresh lemon juice brightens every bite while parsley adds color!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired! Enjoy immediately while it’s warm—trust me; this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance the dish’s flavor. Fresh ingredients provide a brighter taste and better texture, making your meal more enjoyable.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Since shrimp cook quickly, keep a close eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Aim for a perfectly pink and opaque finish for the best texture.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Seasoning your dish in layers allows you to control the flavor profile better. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper gradually to ensure the dish is perfectly seasoned without overpowering it.

• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor. This step not only adds depth but also helps the orzo absorb flavors more effectively as it cooks.

• Experiment with Herbs: While parsley adds a fresh touch, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or dill. Each herb brings its unique flavor, providing versatility and personalization to your dish.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp beautifully can make all the difference in presentation and enjoyment. Here are some ideas to help you impress your guests (or yourself!).

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top not only enhances flavor but also gives the dish an appealing look.
• Lemon Wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows diners to add a bright burst of acidity if desired.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of additional fresh parsley or even chives adds color and freshness, elevating both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy orzo wonderfully while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the orzo and shrimp, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, add color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal experience.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli provides nutrients and a slight crunch that pairs well with the creamy orzo.

With these tips for serving and garnishing your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll create an inviting dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store the leftovers, and enjoy a satisfying meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen if necessary.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Absolutely! While orzo gives this dish its unique texture, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them while cooking; they usually take just a few minutes!

Can I make this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, it’s bound to bring warmth and satisfaction. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!