One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with succulent shrimp, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will impress your family and friends while keeping your cooking stress-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon creates a rich and savory sauce that elevates the entire meal.
• Versatile Choice: Perfect for serving at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe can easily be scaled up or down.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes!
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients or add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: This allows you to sauté ingredients and cook the entire dish in one vessel, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps prevent sticking while cooking.

Ingredients

For the Orzo

• 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.

For the Shrimp

• 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.

For the Base

• 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.

For Creaminess

• 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.

Additional Ingredients

• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness and helps create a flavorful base.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds healthy fat to the dish.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens flavors while zest adds aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds brightness to the finished dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Adds a subtle hint of heat; adjust based on preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out all flavors.

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in your 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) for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Optional Apple Vinegar

Add orzo pasta to the skillet; toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet now.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil then reduce heat to low; cover it up! Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Shrimp

Uncover your skillet gently stir in shrimp so they are mostly submerged in liquid. Cover again; cook another 3-5 minutes until shrimp turn pink.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Remove from heat; mix in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley; adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese & fresh parsley! Enjoy this creamy delight right away!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right can elevate the experience and make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Add a Zesty Touch

• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side to allow guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions.
• Lemon Zest: Grate extra lemon zest over the dish just before serving for an aromatic finish.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad can enhance the creamy orzo without overwhelming it.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce, enhancing the meal’s comfort factor.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced crusty baguette can be perfect for soaking up every delicious bite.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To achieve the best results with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan will significantly enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Watch closely while cooking shrimp; they should be pink and firm but not rubbery.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste throughout cooking; you may need to adjust salt or pepper based on personal preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using vegetable broth or homemade chicken broth for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a tender crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy orzo.
2. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli tossed in garlic adds depth and complements the richness of the main dish.
3. Simple Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers bright flavors that cleanse the palate.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic makes a nutritious addition that’s easy to prepare.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon vinaigrette brings additional textures and flavors.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory elements of the orzo dish beautifully.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and acidity, making it an excellent companion to this creamy pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make a few missteps along the way. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

• Using frozen shrimp without thawing: Always ensure your shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps achieve optimal browning and flavor.
• Skipping the toasting step for orzo: Toasting the orzo for a minute or two enhances its nutty flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step for a richer taste.
• Not tasting during cooking: Seasoning is key! Taste your dish throughout the cooking process to adjust salt and pepper levels for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially cheese and broth, can significantly impact the final dish’s flavor. Don’t compromise on quality!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil; heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until evenly warmed. Use a microwave-safe container.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water in a pan over medium heat; stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’re not alone. Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous, but cooking times may vary.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace shrimp with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I customize One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins like chicken or turkey for a different twist on this recipe.

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

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would pair well, adding freshness and balance to the meal.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients ahead, but it’s best to cook just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delightful but also versatile. Its creamy texture combined with succulent shrimp makes it an irresistible choice for dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect any night of the week!

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One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful and creamy dish that combines tender orzo pasta and succulent shrimp in one easy-to-clean skillet. This recipe not only offers a rich blend of flavors from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and zesty lemon but also comes together in just 30 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its comforting texture and minimal cleanup, you’ll impress your family and friends without the stress of complicated cooking. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to make it uniquely yours.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 1.5 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• ½ cup white apple vinegar (optional)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Red pepper flakes to taste
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until softened (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant.
2. Stir in orzo pasta, gently toasting for 1–2 minutes. If using, add white apple vinegar.
3. Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10–12 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Stir in shrimp until submerged; cover again and cook for another 3–5 minutes until shrimp turn pink.
5. Remove from heat; mix in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Finish with fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley; adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 150mg