One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the whole family together, you’ve stumbled upon a gem with this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This dish is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Imagine creamy orzo coated in a rich Parmesan sauce, perfectly paired with succulent shrimp – it’s pure comfort food! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in.

What makes this dish even more special is its one-pan nature. Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and the company around you. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and comforting flavors are sure to please kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dish can be prepped in advance, making it easier to serve when unexpected guests arrive.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience that you’ll crave again and again.
• Versatile Ingredients: Simple ingredients mean you can easily customize them based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. Gather these items from your kitchen, and let’s get cooking!

For the Main Dish

• Orzo Pasta: 1 pound
• Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (low-sodium recommended)
• White apple vinegar: 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas during cooking for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to give your dish a unique flavor profile.

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. Sautéing the onion until translucent brings out its natural sweetness while the garlic adds aromatic depth to our dish.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Toasting the orzo enhances its nutty flavor which will marry beautifully with the broth later on. If you’re using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet now; let it simmer for a minute while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing step adds so much flavor!

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 the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is nearly cooked through. Keeping it covered allows steam to work its magic for an even cook!

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet gently stir in the shrimp. Nestle them amongst the orzo so they’re mostly submerged in that flavorful broth. Cover again for another 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them; we want tender shrimp without rubbery bites!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove your skillet from heat before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until smooth. The residual heat will melt that cheese into a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every morsel of pasta.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley; taste before adjusting seasoning as needed. This final touch brightens everything up while adding freshness that balances out all that richness from earlier.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot straight from the pan, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired! Enjoy this comforting dish warm as you relish every creamy bite of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp alongside loved ones around your table!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cooking is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs, garlic, and shrimp. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of the dish significantly and make it taste like a gourmet meal.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic until they are perfectly softened and fragrant. This step builds a beautiful flavor base that will infuse the entire dish.

• Adjust the Consistency: If you find your orzo is too thick for your liking after cooking, feel free to add a splash more broth or cream. This flexibility allows you to achieve your preferred creamy texture.

• Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. Every palate is different, so make it yours!

• Add Vegetables: Consider incorporating some leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They will wilt nicely and add even more nutrition and color to your dish.

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Presenting your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp in an inviting way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make serving this delicious dish even more special.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A fresh squeeze of lemon juice right before eating brightens up flavors and adds a zesty finish.
• Chopped chives: These bring a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully and adds a nice pop of color.
• Extra grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of additional cheese not only enhances visual appeal but also amps up that cheesy goodness we all love!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the orzo while adding a comforting element to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the orzo.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that pairs nicely with the creamy pasta dish and adds vibrant color to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus makes an elegant side that complements both texture and flavor profiles wonderfully.

Enjoy creating this delightful One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! With its creamy texture and savory notes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only a delightful dish to whip up for dinner, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This dish will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to allow the orzo to cool down before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the orzo and shrimp mixture.
• Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
• Label and date your container; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it’s too thick.
• Stir occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about preparing this dish, we’ve got you covered!

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

Yes! While this recipe calls for orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary.

How do I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp without using apple vinegar?

If you prefer not to use apple vinegar, simply omit it and add additional chicken broth. It will still create a rich and flavorful dish!

Can I prepare One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storing and reheating instructions for optimal taste.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A crusty piece of bread on the side also complements it perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re just as excited about making this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as I am! It’s a comforting, creamy dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s bound to become a new favorite. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t forget to share your experience—I can’t wait to hear how much you love it! Happy cooking!