One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This creamy, flavorful meal combines tender shrimp and orzo pasta in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. The richness of Parmesan cheese and the brightness of lemon create a balance that will impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy this versatile recipe as a comforting dinner or an elegant option for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: With just one pan required, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple dishes to wash.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, shrimp, and creamy Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Quick Cooking Time: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of fresh parsley and lemon zest make this dish not only tasty but visually appealing as well.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, ensure you have the right tools on hand. A few essential kitchen items will help streamline the process.

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: Provides ample space for sautéing ingredients while being safe for both stovetop and oven use.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even cooking throughout.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and 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.

For the Broth and 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 Wine: ½ cup (optional). Dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, adds depth and acidity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, 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.

For Flavoring

• 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. Use good quality Parmesan for the richest flavor.

For Creaminess

• 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. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.

For Finishing Touches

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds a healthy fat component to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the dish, cutting through the richness of the Parmesan and cream. Lemon zest adds an extra layer of citrus aroma and flavor.

Optional Ingredients

• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. It also provides a bright, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle hint of heat. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

Seasoning

• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.

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.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Wine (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet; toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. If using white wine, 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 all to a boil before reducing heat to low.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover skillet; gently stir in shrimp ensuring they are mostly submerged in remaining liquid.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat; stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice & Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley; taste test before adjusting seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese alongside fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can be as delightful as the dish itself. This creamy pasta dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a complete meal.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad adds freshness. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

With Garlic Bread

• The crunch of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Serve warm, brushed with olive oil and garlic for extra flavor.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrients. Try a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil and herbs.

With White Wine

• Pairing this dish with a glass of dry white wine enhances its flavors. Choose a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the shrimp.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges allow guests to add an extra burst of citrus to their plates. This brightens the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To achieve perfection in your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, consider these helpful tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, herbs, and cheeses make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting orzo before adding liquids enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb broth better.
• Monitor Cooking Times: Shrimp cook quickly; watch them closely to prevent overcooking. They should turn pink and opaque without being rubbery.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice gradually for balanced flavor throughout the dish.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together before serving.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese. They add both visual appeal and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Complement your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp with these delightful side dishes that enhance your dining experience.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze create a refreshing combination that pairs well with the creamy orzo.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Simply steamed asparagus adds crunch and color while being light enough not to overpower the main dish.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delicious summer side that adds sweetness and texture contrast to your meal.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Marinated grilled zucchini slices offer smoky flavors that enhance the shrimp’s taste without overwhelming it.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens tossed in vinaigrette provides a crisp counterpoint to the richness of the orzo.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs are hearty yet complementing alongside your pasta dish.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa can serve as a flavorful addition while providing visual appeal.
8. Cucumber Salad: A chilled cucumber salad dressed in yogurt or vinegar offers a refreshing bite that balances out the creamy main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using non-fresh shrimp: Always opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Frozen shrimp should be thawed and patted dry to achieve optimal browning.
• Skipping the sautéing step: Do not skip sautéing the onion and garlic. This foundational step builds essential flavor, which enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Be careful when cooking shrimp, as they cook quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid rubberiness.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish during cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures balanced flavors throughout the recipe.
• Using low-quality Parmesan: For a rich and creamy sauce, use high-quality fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated options that may lack flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Place the orzo and shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the orzo in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender orzo cooked with succulent shrimp, savory broth, and rich Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole grain orzo and reducing the amount of heavy cream by substituting it with Greek yogurt.

What type of wine works best for this dish?

A dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors well. If you prefer not to use wine, additional chicken broth works just fine.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture combined with tender shrimp makes it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Try this recipe today for an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress!