One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is an ideal dish that beautifully combines rich flavors and quick preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. This creamy, comforting meal is a one-pan wonder that allows you to savor delicious shrimp and orzo without a mountain of dishes waiting to be cleaned. As an avid cook, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that strike the perfect balance of taste, convenience, and cozy comfort — and this dish ticks all the boxes.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare — ready in just about 30 minutes! It’s not only budget-friendly, but also uses ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Family-approved, this orzo dish is fun for kids and sophisticated enough for adults, making it a versatile choice for weeknight dinners or even holiday gatherings.
As one satisfied home chef exclaimed:
"The One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp was a huge hit at our family dinner! It’s creamy, comforting, and so easy to make. This will definitely be a regular on our table!"
How this recipe comes together
Now let’s dive into how this wonderful dish comes together! You’ll start by sautéing some aromatic vegetables, then add the orzo and broth, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Shrimp cooks quickly, making the whole process even simpler. Finally, a creamy blend of cheese and heavy cream creates that delectable finish. Ready to get cooking? Let’s gather everything you need!
What you’ll need
To whip up this delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Orzo Pasta: 1 pound – Look for high-quality orzo for the best results. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Shrimp: 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined – Medium to large shrimp provide the best texture; make sure they’re thawed and patted dry for optimal browning.
Chicken Broth: 4 cups – Low-sodium version is preferable for better control over saltiness.
White Wine (Optional): ½ cup – A dry white wine enhances the dish’s depth. If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with additional chicken broth.
Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced – This aromatic base adds a touch of sweetness.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – Freshly minced garlic is key for a robust flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving – Freshly grated gives the best flavor and creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: ½ cup – Adds that rich and smooth consistency.
Butter: 2 tablespoons – Unsalted butter helps capture rich flavors while sautéing.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for sautéing, adding both flavor and health benefits.
Lemon: 1, juiced and zested – Lemon brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped – Adds a refreshing touch and a pop of color.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): ¼ teaspoon – For those who prefer an extra kick.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste – Essential for bringing everything together and enhancing flavors.
Cooking method
Let’s break down how to prepare this wonderful dish!
Sauté Aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Orzo and Wine (Optional): Toss in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. If you’re using white wine, pour it in now, scraping any flavorful bits from the skillet.
Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add the chicken broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower the temperature, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.
Add Shrimp and Cook: Stir in the shrimp, nestling them into the orzo. Cover again, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
Stir in Parmesan and Cream: Remove from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan and heavy cream until combined and creamy.
Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley: Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley, adjusting salt and pepper to your taste.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, the possibilities are endless! For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up all that delicious creamy goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for some heat or serving it alongside sautéed seasonal vegetables for a pop of color and nutrition.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers? Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy it within 3-4 days. For reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring frequently until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure the shrimp are dry before cooking to maximize browning.
- For an added layer of flavor, consider toasting the orzo a little longer.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to achieve your perfect balance.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Swap out the shrimp for chicken or veggies for a different flair. You could also add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant touch, or try swapping the Parmesan for a different cheese, like feta, for a Mediterranean twist.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare? The entire recipe can be completed in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick meal.
Can I make it without wine? Yes! Simply replace the white wine with additional chicken broth to keep the dish flavorful.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Enjoy crafting this stellar One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp in your kitchen, and let the rich, creamy flavors take your dining experience to the next level!
Print
One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Seafood
Description
A creamy, comforting one-pan dish that combines rich flavors of shrimp and orzo, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Orzo Pasta
- 1.5 pounds Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- ½ cup White Wine (optional)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated, plus extra for serving
- ½ cup Heavy Cream
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Lemon, juiced and zested
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter. Add the diced onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. If using white wine, pour it in now, scraping any flavorful bits from the skillet.
- Add the chicken broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower the temperature, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the shrimp, nestling them into the orzo. Cover again, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan and heavy cream until combined and creamy.
- Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
Ensure shrimp are dry before cooking for optimal browning. Substitute shrimp with chicken or veggies for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian