One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines creamy orzo pasta with succulent shrimp, all cooked in one pan for ultimate convenience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only simple but packed with flavor. The rich combination of Parmesan cheese and the freshness of lemon make it a standout in any meal lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This one-pan dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, onion, and creamy Parmesan creates a rich, savory sauce that coats the orzo beautifully.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Healthier Comfort Food: With lean shrimp and plenty of fresh ingredients, you can indulge without the guilt.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent on dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

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 versatile tool allows for even cooking and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Orzo Dish

• 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.
• 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 to create a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics and shrimp.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds a healthy fat component to the dish.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the dish while lemon zest adds an extra layer of citrus aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle hint of heat; adjust according to preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning enhances all ingredient flavors.

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)
– Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet.*
– Toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.
– If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet after toasting.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour chicken broth into the skillet along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
– Bring mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low.
– Cover skillet; simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover skillet; gently stir in shrimp.
– Ensure they are mostly submerged in remaining liquid before covering again.
– Cook an additional 3-5 minutes until shrimp turn pink.*

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove skillet from heat.
– Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley into mixture.
– Taste; adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese garnished on top if desired.*
– Enjoy immediately while warm!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is easy and allows for a variety of delicious accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant color and refreshing taste.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic twist that pairs well with the dish.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy orzo.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette can be perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Offer a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and complements the richness of the orzo.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast.

Include a Beverage

• Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade enhances the dish’s flavors while providing a refreshing drink option.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea offers a subtle flavor that won’t overpower the meal.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To ensure your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality shrimp and fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking will make them rubbery.
• Toast Orzo Lightly: Toasting orzo before adding broth enhances its nutty flavor, making the dish more delicious.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Add More Veggies: Consider adding spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm for the creamiest texture.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Complement your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp by serving it alongside these fantastic side dishes. They pair beautifully to create a balanced meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and provides a lovely crunch.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, season, and roast until tender for a flavorful addition.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes elevate the dish while maintaining a comforting feel.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed makes for a light, healthy side that pairs well with shrimp.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the orzo dish.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.
8. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides freshness to balance out the richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish’s quality. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Sauté: Neglecting to sauté the onion and garlic properly can lead to a bland dish. Make sure you cook them until softened and fragrant to build a solid flavor base.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery. Always monitor their cooking time carefully; they should be pink and opaque in just a few minutes.
• Not Toasting the Orzo: Failing to toast the orzo before adding liquids can result in a less flavorful dish. Toasting enhances its nuttiness and helps it absorb flavors better, so don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Using too little broth may leave your orzo undercooked and dry. Ensure you follow the recommended liquid amounts for perfectly creamy orzo.
• Using Low-Quality Parmesan: Opting for pre-grated or low-quality cheese will affect creaminess and taste. Freshly grated Parmesan is key for richness, so invest in good quality cheese.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting your dish as you cook can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers 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 or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a creamy pasta dish made with orzo, shrimp, and rich flavors from Parmesan cheese and aromatics, all cooked in one pan.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp with chicken, turkey, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option while maintaining similar cooking times.

How do I customize my One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition or spice it up with additional herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.

What type of broth should I use?

While chicken broth is traditional, vegetable broth works well too if you’re looking for a lighter option without compromising on flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! You can omit the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese and replace them with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and nutritional yeast for similar richness.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it allows room for customization based on what you have on hand. Try adding different vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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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

Indulge in the creamy goodness of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, a delightful dish that brings together tender orzo pasta and succulent shrimp in a rich, flavorful sauce—all prepared in just one pan.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 1.5 pounds medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• ½ cup white apple vinegar (optional)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until softened (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
2. Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes. If using white apple vinegar, pour it in after toasting.
3. Add chicken broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.
4. Uncover and stir in shrimp; cover again and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until shrimp are pink.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until melted.
6. Finish with lemon juice and chopped parsley; adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 140mg