One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table, then you’ve found it with this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! This recipe is a true favorite of mine, combining the creamy goodness of orzo with succulent shrimp, all cooked in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

The best part? This dish is not only easy to make but also packs a punch of flavor. With simple, wholesome ingredients, it creates a satisfying meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy orzo and tender shrimp.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. Each component plays an important role in bringing out the wonderful flavors in our One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

• 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 Grape Juice: ½ cup (optional). Dry white grape juice adds depth and acidity to the sauce; if you prefer not to use apple vinegar, simply substitute it 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. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its best aroma and taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated plus extra for serving. Good quality Parmesan is key to achieving that creamy sauce we all love!
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness and creates a velvety texture that coats the orzo beautifully.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Unsalted butter helps create a flavorful base for sautéing.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil adds healthy fat and great flavor.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon brightens the dish’s flavors wonderfully!
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. A pop of color and freshness on top!
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Add some heat if you like it spicy!
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Variations

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is versatile enough to adapt to your tastes! Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or scallops instead of shrimp for variety!
• Add veggies: Toss in spinach or peas during cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change up the cheese: Try using feta or goat cheese for a different cheesy flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños in place of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet 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 our dish; sautéing these aromatics releases their sweet aroma.

Step 2: Add Orzo and White Grape Juice (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1–2 minutes while stirring constantly. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor while helping it absorb broth better later on! If using white grape juice, pour it into the skillet now; let it simmer slightly while scraping any browned bits from the bottom—this deglazing step adds so much depth!

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Next up, pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper! Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low; cover tightly—let’s simmer this beauty away for about 10–12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently; nestle those lovely shrimp among your orzo! Cover again & cook another 3–5 minutes until they turn pink & opaque—perfectly tender shrimp should never be rubbery!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat & stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese alongside heavy cream until melted into velvety perfection! This will create that rich luscious sauce we adore so much.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Last but not least—stir in fresh lemon juice & chopped parsley! Taste & adjust seasoning as needed because we want every bite bursting with flavor.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot straight from your skillet garnished with extra Parmesan cheese & parsley if desired! Enjoy every creamy bite while it’s still warm—it’s simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve to ensure your dish is perfect!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen. Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also provide a firmer texture that elevates the overall dish.
• Toast the Orzo: Don’t skip the toasting step! Toasting the orzo enhances its nutty flavor and ensures it absorbs the broth more effectively, leading to a richer and creamier final dish.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: If you find that the orzo is absorbing too much liquid too quickly, feel free to add a bit more chicken broth. This prevents it from drying out and keeps the dish creamy.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on your shrimp while cooking. They should only take about 3-5 minutes to cook through. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, which we definitely want to avoid!
• Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. Each herb brings its unique flavor profile that can enhance your dish even further!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Extra Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan over the top before serving for an extra cheesy finish that everyone will love.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can add a fresh squeeze of citrus just before eating, brightening up flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Top with a few extra sprigs of fresh parsley or even some basil for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish; its buttery crunch is perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a beautiful green contrast and a touch of earthiness that balances the richness of the orzo.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers refreshing crunch and acidity that cuts through the creamy dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring vibrant colors and flavors to your plate while complementing your main dish perfectly.

Enjoy creating this delightful meal and sharing it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for quick and satisfying meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the orzo into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing and reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual portions in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help restore creaminess.
• You can also microwave it; just cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
• Stir well and heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes in the microwave.

FAQs

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

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. It will still provide a flavorful base for your dish.

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

To enhance creaminess, try adding an extra splash of heavy cream or more grated Parmesan cheese when you stir in the sauce. This will give you that luscious, rich texture!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve optimal browning.

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

This dish is delightful on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh lemon wedge on the side also adds a lovely touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as much as I do! It’s not just easy and quick; it’s also packed with flavor that brings comfort to any table. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or meal prep, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!