One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that comes together in a snap, then look no further! This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a family favorite in my home. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for everything from busy weeknights to special gatherings. The best part? You only need one pan to whip it up, making cleanup a breeze!

This dish brings together tender shrimp, rich Parmesan, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that makes everyone at the table smile. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just treating yourself, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, onion, and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
• Customizable: With easy substitutions, you can make this dish to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the tender shrimp and cheesy orzo. It’s sure to become a staple!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined. Look for medium to large shrimp for the best texture.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Low-sodium is recommended to keep control over the saltiness of the dish.
• White Apple Vinegar: ½ cup (optional). Adds depth and acidity; replace it with more broth if preferred.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced. Forms the aromatic base of our dish!
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Essential for flavor; freshly minced is always best.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated cheese makes all the difference!
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Adds richness and creates a velvety texture.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Helps sauté our aromatics beautifully.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Ideal for sautéing; extra virgin is recommended for flavor.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Brightens up all the flavors!
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Adds color and freshness at the end.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). A little heat if you like it spicy!
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a different twist on flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the shrimp entirely and add in seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers instead!
• Add extra greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for something different.

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 will release its natural sweetness.

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 while helping it absorb broth better. If using apple vinegar, pour it in now! Let it simmer briefly so it can deglaze any browned bits from the bottom of your 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 it up! Simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed but leave some moisture—you’re aiming for al dente orzo.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently stir in shrimp into that lovely mixture! Nestle them amongst the orzo so they cook evenly—cover again! In just another few minutes (3-5), they should transform into pink perfection without turning rubbery.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Once cooked through remove from heat! Now stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until smooth—watch as this creamy goodness envelops everything!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley before tasting; adjust seasoning as needed! That zingy lemon combined with fresh herbs makes such an uplifting finish!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot right away garnished with extra Parmesan cheese & parsley if desired! This dish truly shines when enjoyed warm & creamy—the perfect way to savor each bite!

Enjoy your delightful One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp—it’s bound to become a cherished recipe just like it has in my home!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Creating the perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is all about attention to detail and a few helpful techniques that will elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp, herbs, and vegetables can make a significant difference in flavor. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant and delicious your dish will be.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque for the best texture.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste your dish at various stages of cooking to adjust salt and pepper levels. This ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. This resting time also helps thicken the sauce slightly.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley adds freshness, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or dill to give your dish a unique twist. Fresh herbs can enhance the aroma and flavor complexity.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presenting your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds richness and an appealing finish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portion, enhancing brightness.
• Chopped chives or basil: These herbs add color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the creamy orzo beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite delightful.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo.
• Steamed Asparagus: The bright green color and slight crunch of asparagus pair well with shrimp, adding an elegant touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add warmth and additional nutrients to your meal.

With these tips on serving and garnishing, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your culinary skills while enjoying every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, consume within this timeframe.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and type of dish.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

While orzo provides a unique texture and flavor, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!

What makes this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp so special?

This dish is not only quick and easy but also combines creamy Parmesan cheese with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo. The one-pan method simplifies cleanup while delivering rich flavors that everyone will love.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s such a comforting dish that brings family together around the table. Enjoy its creamy goodness, and don’t hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!