One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week, then let me introduce you to my favorite: One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This delightful recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the creamy goodness of Parmesan and the succulent flavors of shrimp—all cooked in one pan! It’s great for busy weeknights or even when you have friends over. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.

This dish is not just about convenience; it’s also about the amazing flavors that come together beautifully in one pot. The combination of tender orzo, juicy shrimp, and rich cream creates a meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to whip up after a long day. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: This dish cooks all in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Creamy and flavorful, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: Simple ingredients mean you can easily substitute based on what you have at home.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for easy reheating during the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. Each component plays an important role in building layers of flavor that you’ll love.

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Variations

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is super flexible! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh jalapeños if you like heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté until softened—about five minutes. Next, stir in your minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cooking these aromatics first builds an incredible flavor base that will enhance every bite of your dish.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta! Toast it gently for about one to two minutes while stirring constantly. This step enhances its nutty flavor while allowing it to soak up all that lovely broth later on. If you’re using white apple vinegar, pour it in now; let it simmer briefly as you scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds depth to your sauce.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let it simmer away for about ten to twelve minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and your orzo is nearly cooked through. This covered simmering helps ensure even cooking while allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet now! Gently stir in those beautiful shrimp, making sure they’re nestled among the orzo. Cover again and cook for an additional three to five minutes until the shrimp are pink and tender. They cook quickly—watch closely so they don’t overcook!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove your skillet from heat at this point! Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until everything melds into a creamy sauce. The residual heat will help melt that cheese perfectly—creating such a rich texture that coats each piece of orzo beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Finally, squeeze in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley! Taste everything now; adjust seasoning if needed with salt or pepper. The lemon juice brightens this dish wonderfully while fresh parsley adds color and freshness—trust me; it’s worth this last step!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot right from the skillet! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if you want an extra touch. Enjoy this warm creamy goodness immediately—it’s best served fresh!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture. If you choose to use frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

• Toast the orzo: Toasting the orzo before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb the liquid more effectively. This simple step can elevate the overall taste of your dish.

• Don’t skip the lemon juice: Adding fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese. It adds a refreshing note that balances everything beautifully.

• Adjust the seasoning gradually: Always taste your dish as you cook, especially when adding salt and pepper. This way, you can adjust according to your preference and ensure a well-seasoned final result.

• Let it rest before serving: If you can resist diving in immediately, allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help all the flavors meld together, resulting in an even tastier meal.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is just as enjoyable as making it! With its creamy texture and vibrant colors, this dish is sure to impress whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: Grating some additional Parmesan on top right before serving enhances both the flavor and visual appeal of your dish.
• Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add extra brightness to their plate if desired.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy orzo, providing a crunchy contrast and a way to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch while its mild flavor complements the richness of the orzo beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing palate cleanser that balances out the meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus until it’s tender yet crisp brings earthy notes that enhance this seafood dish while adding another layer of textures.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to create a deliciously satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool fully, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and label with the date.
• 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 broth or water to loosen it up as needed.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

What if I don’t have shrimp?

If shrimp isn’t available, you can easily swap it out for chicken or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I enhance the flavor of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

You can add herbs like thyme or basil, or include additional vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?

Yes! Whole wheat orzo is a nutritious alternative that will give your dish an earthy flavor while maintaining its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as I do! It’s a comforting yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!