One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and easy preparation, you’ve come to the right place! One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is one of those recipes that warms your heart while being simple enough for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, cheesy, and absolutely bursting with flavor, making it a favorite in my home. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everything together in just one pan. That means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal! Plus, the combination of tender shrimp and rich Parmesan creates a delightful experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just one pan to clean up, dinner is on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and delicious flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with savory goodness from fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and Parmesan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is as easy as gathering some wholesome ingredients. You probably already have many of these staples in your kitchen!

For the Pasta Dish

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
  This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
  Medium to large shrimp provide a satisfying bite.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups
  Low-sodium chicken broth adds richness without overpowering saltiness.
• White Grape Juice: ½ cup (optional)
  Adds depth; if not using, just substitute with additional chicken broth.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
  Adds sweetness as it cooks down.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  Essential for adding robust flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving
  Freshly grated for the best taste.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup
  Creates a velvety texture that coats the orzo perfectly.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
  Enhances richness in the sautéed base.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  Adds healthy fat during cooking.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested
  Brightens flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
  Gives color and freshness to finish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
  For a hint of heat; adjust to your taste!
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try substituting shrimp with chicken or even veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian option!
• Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale during cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for different flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want some extra heat!

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) for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavorful foundation of our dish. Sautéing the onion until translucent releases its natural sweetness while mellowing out the garlic’s raw bite.

Step 2: Add Orzo

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb broth more effectively. If you’re using white grape juice, pour it into the skillet now; let it simmer briefly while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom—the deglazing process adds so much depth!

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 and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is nearly cooked through. This method ensures even cooking while allowing all those lovely flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Shrimp

Uncover your skillet now! Gently stir in shrimp by nestling them among the orzo so they’re mostly submerged in any remaining liquid. Cover again for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink—watch carefully so they don’t overcook!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat once shrimp are cooked through. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese alongside heavy cream until melted into a creamy sauce. The residual heat here does wonders—creating that luxurious texture we all crave!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley. Taste your creation now! Adjust seasoning if necessary; lemon juice balances out all that richness beautifully while parsley adds freshness.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot right away—don’t forget that extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top! This dish shines brightest when enjoyed warm and creamy.

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as much as I do! It’s sure to become a beloved part of your recipe repertoire too!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can make this dish a breeze!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using good quality orzo and fresh shrimp makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients ensure your dish tastes vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp while cooking, as they only need a few minutes to turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery, robbing the dish of its delightful texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: As you cook, taste and adjust the seasoning little by little. This helps to ensure a well-balanced flavor throughout the dish without overwhelming any single ingredient.
• Experiment with Herbs: While parsley adds a lovely freshness, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or dill for different flavor profiles. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish and add an extra layer of complexity.
• Make Ahead for Meal Prep: This one-pan meal is perfect for meal prep! Cook it in advance and store it in containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp beautifully enhances the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make it visually appealing and even more delicious!

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving adds an enticing cheesy finish.
• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests who enjoy a zesty kick to their meal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy orzo perfectly, providing a delightful contrast in textures.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli not only add color but also bring a healthy element to your meal. Their bright flavors balance the richness of the main dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy orzo.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep! Not only is it easy to make, but it also stores well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the orzo and shrimp dish cool completely.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Yes! While orzo is ideal for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if necessary. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.

How long does it take to make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

This recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!

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

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can omit the heavy cream and add more broth instead. The dish will still be deliciously creamy thanks to the melted Parmesan!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comforting flavors and delightful textures. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!