One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to whip up and absolutely delicious, then my One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is just what you need! This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines creamy orzo with succulent shrimp in a single, cozy dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s fantastic for family gatherings or when you want to impress guests without stressing yourself out.

Making this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the best part? You’ll only need one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy orzo and tender shrimp.
• Quick Cooking Time: Dinner is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it with different veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Creamy: The rich Parmesan and heavy cream create a velvety sauce that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, creating a creamy texture in this one-pan dish. Look for good quality orzo for the best results.
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined. Medium to large shrimp work best, providing a satisfying bite. Ensure they are thawed if frozen and patted dry before cooking for optimal browning.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. It provides the liquid base for cooking the orzo and infuses it with savory flavor. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
• White apple vinegar: ½ cup (optional). Dry white apple vinegar adds depth and acidity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use apple vinegar, simply substitute with additional chicken broth.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced. Onion forms the aromatic base of the dish, adding sweetness and complexity as it cooks down.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic is essential for flavor, complementing the shrimp and Parmesan beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness and luxuriousness to the sauce.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness and helps to create a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics and shrimp.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds a healthy fat component to the dish.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the dish while lemon zest adds extra aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle hint of heat; adjust amount as preferred.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Variations

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using scallops or chicken instead of shrimp for a different twist on this classic dish.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for added nutrition and color!
• Make it spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños if you like some heat in your meals.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for unique flavors.

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 first; cooking until softened (about 5 minutes) brings out its natural sweetness. Next, stir in minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if you opted for them) until fragrant—this step builds that delicious foundation of flavor we all crave!

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Now it’s time to add your orzo pasta into the mix! Toasting it lightly for about 1–2 minutes enhances its nutty flavor while helping it absorb all those wonderful brothy flavors later on. If you’re using white apple vinegar, pour it in now; let it simmer briefly while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet—this deglazing process really packs a punch of flavor!

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in your chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper—bring everything to a boil! Once boiling, lower your heat, cover it up tight, and let it simmer away for about 10–12 minutes until most of that liquid is absorbed and your orzo is perfectly al dente.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover that skillet! Gently stir in those lovely shrimp—make sure they’re nestled amongst the orzo so they cook evenly. Cover again; let them cook until they’re pink and opaque (about another 3–5 minutes). Be careful not to overcook them!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat once your shrimp are done! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until everything melts together into creamy perfection—trust me; this step will take your dish from good to unforgettable.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Finally! Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley—this will brighten up all those rich flavors beautifully! Taste test again; adjust salt/pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot right away! Top each portion off with extra Parmesan cheese & fresh parsley if desired—this delightful meal deserves every bit of attention!

Now gather around your table with family or friends—enjoy this warm bowl of goodness together!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking this delightful dish is a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh shrimp and good-quality Parmesan cheese. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful and satisfying your dish will be.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking; they only need a few minutes to become perfectly tender. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Start with less salt and pepper, then adjust according to your preference. This ensures you don’t overpower the dish.

• Experiment with Broth: Feel free to mix vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or add herbs like thyme or basil for extra depth. This allows you to customize the dish based on your taste preferences.

• Make it Ahead of Time: Prepare the base ahead and add shrimp just before serving. This way, you can enjoy a freshly made meal without all the last-minute rush.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp not only tastes divine but also looks stunning on the table! Here are some tips on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Squeeze over individual servings for an extra burst of brightness that complements the creaminess of the dish.
• Extra Grated Parmesan: A light sprinkle on top adds an appealing finish and enhances the cheesy flavor.
• Chopped Chives or Basil: These fresh herbs offer a lovely pop of color and flavor that elevates your presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate, making each bite absolutely delicious.
• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color that pairs well with the rich orzo dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes bring color, nutrition, and additional layers of flavor to your meal.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with this comforting and delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only a delightful dish to enjoy fresh but also makes for excellent meal prep. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

While orzo is perfect for this recipe, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous. Just adjust cooking times as needed!

How can I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply replace shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions provided above for best results.

What can I serve with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I ensure my shrimp don’t get overcooked?

To prevent overcooking shrimp, watch closely while they cook; they should turn pink and opaque in just a few minutes. Remove them from heat as soon as they are done!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s a comforting and creamy dish that brings a touch of elegance to any table while being wonderfully simple to prepare. Enjoy creating this delightful meal, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations! Happy cooking!