One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delicious, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers great flavor and minimal cleanup. The combination of tender shrimp, flavorful orzo, and rich Parmesan sauce makes it stand out. Plus, it comes together in just one pan, making it as convenient as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll enjoy fewer dishes to wash while still creating a hearty meal.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The blend of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that coats the orzo beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey if you prefer another protein, making it adaptable to your taste.
• Fresh and Bright: The addition of lemon juice and parsley adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more 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 for even cooking and is ideal for one-pan recipes.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables like onion and garlic efficiently.

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 Grape Juice: ½ cup (optional). Dry white grape juice 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 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.
• 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 create a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics and shrimp.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for sautéing; extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor benefits.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens flavors; zest adds an extra layer of aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds color freshness to the finished dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add a hint of heat; adjust according to your preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

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:
1. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) until fragrant (about another minute).

Step 2: Add Orzo

Add orzo pasta:
1. Toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to enhance its nutty flavor.
2. If using white grape juice, pour it into the skillet; let it simmer briefly while scraping browned bits from the bottom (deglazing).

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Pour in chicken broth:
1. Add lemon zest along with salt & pepper; bring to boil then reduce heat to low.
2. Cover & simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed & orzo is nearly done.

Step 4: Add Shrimp

Uncover skillet:
1. Stir in shrimp gently so they are mostly submerged in liquid; cover again.
2. Cook another 3-5 minutes until shrimp turn pink & opaque.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Remove from heat:
1. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese & heavy cream until melted & creamy.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice

Stir fresh lemon juice & chopped parsley:
1. Adjust seasoning with salt & pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese & fresh parsley if desired! Enjoy warm!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil or Cilantro: Experiment with other herbs like basil or cilantro to introduce new flavors.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy orzo.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery flavor balance.

Add Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for scooping up the creamy orzo.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette is perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese for those who love a cheesy finish.
• Feta Crumbles: Feta cheese adds a tangy kick that pairs well with shrimp and orzo.

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.

• Bold Flavor Base: Always sauté your aromatics (onion and garlic) until softened and fragrant to build depth of flavor.
• Bold Seasoning Choices: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper during cooking to enhance the overall taste.
• Bold Cooking Technique: Toast the orzo before adding liquids; this enhances its nutty flavor and improves absorption.
• Bold Shrimp Cooking Method: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be pink and opaque but still tender when done.
• Bold Creamy Texture: Stir in heavy cream off the heat to maintain a rich, velvety sauce without curdling.
• Bold Citrus Brightness: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens flavors and balances the richness of the dish.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, complementing the richness of the orzo.
2. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled in olive oil brings an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad offers crunch and a light contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide sweetness and texture, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
5. Caprese Salad Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers make for an easy, flavorful side.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can be simple and enjoyable, but a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; if left too long, they can turn rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove when they are pink and opaque.
• Not Toasting the Orzo: Skipping the toasting step can lead to bland orzo. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor and improves broth absorption.
• Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality broth results in a less flavorful dish. Opt for good quality low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for better taste.
• Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy sauce.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Always taste before serving and tweak salt and pepper as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp:

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

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Store it properly in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What other proteins can I use instead of shrimp?

You can substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey for a different protein option while keeping the flavors intact.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace shrimp with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any dinner occasion. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out proteins. Give it a try; it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!