One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated dish that comes together in a snap, you’ll absolutely love this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the delightful flavors of shrimp—all cooked in just one pan! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still impressive enough for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.

What makes this dish even more special is how it brings everyone together around the table. The aroma of garlic and onions fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving right in. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s a win-win for anyone who enjoys delicious food without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is short.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, clean-up is a breeze! Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy orzo and tender shrimp are sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! This recipe allows for easy substitutions based on your preferences or pantry supplies.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and lemon creates a bright and rich flavor that will impress even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this scrumptious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. 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. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for the best aroma and taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated plus extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to the creamy, cheesy sauce. Use good quality Parmesan for the richest flavor.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness and luxuriousness to the sauce, creating a velvety texture that coats the orzo and shrimp perfectly.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness and helps create a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics and shrimp. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds a healthy fat component to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
• Lemon: 1 juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the dish while lemon zest adds an extra layer of citrus aroma and flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish, providing a bright herbaceous counterpoint to the rich sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle hint of heat; adjust according to your preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out all flavors; taste as you go!

Variations

One of my favorite things about this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is its flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing or you want to mix it up, try using chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces or even cooked scallops!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for added nutrition and vibrant color—plus they add extra flavor!
• Switch up cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta or mozzarella instead of Parmesan if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Make it spicy: For those who love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes!

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 will do! Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) until fragrant; be careful not to let that garlic burn! This step builds a flavorful foundation that really sets up your dish.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Now it’s time to add your orzo pasta! Toast it lightly by stirring constantly for about 1–2 minutes—this enhances its nutty flavor while helping it absorb all that delicious broth later on. If you’re using white apple vinegar, pour it into your skillet now; let it simmer briefly while scraping any browned bits off the bottom—this process adds depth!

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in your chicken broth along with lemon zest plus salt & pepper! Bring everything up to boil then reduce heat low; cover & let simmer away for about 10–12 minutes until most liquid absorbs into that lovely pasta—check if it’s al dente!

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover & gently stir in those beautiful shrimp! Nestle them among our lovely orzo so they soak up all those great flavors too! Cover again & cook another few minutes until pink & opaque—be cautious not overcook; no one likes rubbery shrimp!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan & Cream

Remove from heat & stir through grated Parmesan plus heavy cream until melted & creamy! That residual heat works wonders here; we want every bit coated evenly! A luscious sauce awaits!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice & Parsley

Stir through fresh lemon juice plus chopped parsley next; give everything one last taste test—add salt/pepper as desired! The lemon helps brighten everything up while parsley adds freshness—the perfect finish!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Finally serve hot; don’t forget extra cheese & parsley on top if you’d like! Enjoy this gorgeous bowl right away while warm & creamy—you’ve earned every bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality orzo and fresh shrimp makes a significant difference in flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and ensure every bite is delicious.

• Don’t Skip Toasting the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor. This simple step adds depth to your dish, making it even more delightful.

• Monitor Shrimp Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Perfectly cooked shrimp are tender and juicy, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your dish before serving. Everyone’s palate is different, and adjusting salt and pepper will help you create a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

• Use Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that can lift the entire dish. Consider adding other herbs like basil or chives for added flavor complexity.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presentation can make any meal feel special! Here are some ideas to highlight this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a beautiful finishing touch.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add an extra squeeze of citrus for brightness, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.
• Fresh Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley on top not only adds color but also boosts freshness, making each bite more vibrant.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy dish. The crispy, buttery bread offers a delightful contrast to the soft orzo and shrimp.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the main dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds both nutrition and color. Its mild flavor balances the richness while providing a healthy side option.
• Roasted Asparagus: Crispy roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice makes for an elegant side that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the orzo.

With these tips on serving and garnishing, your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will not only taste amazing but look stunning as well! Enjoy your culinary creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only a delightful dish to enjoy but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing

• This dish can be frozen, but for best results, it’s recommended to freeze before adding the cream and cheese to maintain texture.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Ensure it’s heated evenly before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of pasta for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

While orzo is ideal for this recipe due to its size and texture, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How do I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp creamier?

To make your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp even creamier, consider adding extra heavy cream or a touch more grated Parmesan cheese when stirring in the sauce. Adjusting these ingredients will enhance richness!

Is there a vegetarian version of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the shrimp and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add in your favorite vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?

If you’re sensitive to spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes entirely. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add more according to your taste preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as enjoyable to make as it is to eat! It’s a comforting dish that brings together creamy flavors and succulent shrimp all in one easy pan. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, I encourage you to give it a try. Let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your thoughts!