One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that comes together in one pan, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s a hug on a plate. Imagine creamy orzo enveloped in the flavors of sautéed shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan—pure bliss! Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, who doesn’t love minimal cleanup?

Let’s dive into why this dish has become a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
• One Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner. Everything cooks together, making it super convenient!
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to sneak some seafood into your family’s menu.
• Customizable: With so many variations possible, you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley creates a bright and rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need these delightful components that work harmoniously together to create magic in your kitchen.

For the Main Dish

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (low-sodium recommended)
• White Grape Juice: 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 (unsalted)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (extra virgin)
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have or prefer.

• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken breast or even scallops instead of shrimp for a different flavor!
• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños if you like some heat.
• Go Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

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) and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavorful foundation of the dish—sautéing the onion until translucent brings out their natural sweetness while the garlic adds an irresistible aroma.

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

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor! If you’re using white grape juice, pour it into the skillet now and let it simmer for one minute while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing process adds depth of flavor to your sauce.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is almost cooked through. Keeping it covered helps cook everything evenly while allowing the orzo to soak up all that savory goodness!

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently stir in the shrimp. Nestle them among the orzo so they’re mostly submerged in any remaining liquid. Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remember, shrimp cooks quickly—watch closely so they don’t become rubbery!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove your skillet from heat once shrimp are done cooking. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until everything is melted together into a creamy sauce. The residual heat will help create that luxurious texture we all crave!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Finally, stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley. Taste your creation—adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed! The lemon juice brightens up all those rich flavors while parsley adds freshness that makes each bite pop.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot right from the pan topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy every warm, creamy bite; trust me—it’s best enjoyed right away!

Now you’re ready to experience comfort food at its finest with this scrumptious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to elevate your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a world of difference in flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste, ensuring your dish is as delicious as possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while they cook, as they only need a few minutes to turn perfectly pink and tender. Overcooking results in rubbery shrimp, so stay attentive!
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. This allows you to find the perfect balance of flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking helps it thicken up slightly and lets those flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the cooking process for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances the dish’s appearance but also boosts its health benefits.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dish! Here are some ideas to make your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest on top enhances the citrus aroma and makes for an eye-catching presentation.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper adds visual appeal and a touch of heat without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy orzo perfectly, providing a satisfying crunch that balances out the softness of the pasta.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the orzo.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color, flavor, and nutrients to your meal, making it more wholesome while enhancing its overall appeal.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a nice pop of green and a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy orzo.

With these serving suggestions and helpful tips, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep! Its rich flavors only get better with time, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, ensure as much air as possible is removed from bags.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter dish.

What type of shrimp is best for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Medium to large shrimp are ideal as they provide a satisfying bite. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.

How do I adjust the spice level in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

You can easily adjust by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste preference. Omit them entirely if you prefer no heat!

Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?

While orzo works beautifully in this recipe, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe, keeping cooking times in mind.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be enjoyed as leftovers throughout the week, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comforting flavors and creamy goodness that brings everyone together. Don’t hesitate to try it out, and feel free to share your thoughts and variations! Happy cooking!