One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful, creamy dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender shrimp and flavorful orzo pasta in a single pan, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its rich texture and savory flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping clean-up to a minimum.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This one-pan meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich and Creamy: The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a velvety sauce that coats the orzo beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey if desired, accommodating various tastes.
• Flavor-Packed: Fresh garlic, onion, and lemon juice add depth to the dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Easy Clean-Up: Cooking everything in one pan means less time scrubbing pots and pans after your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: This versatile cookware allows you to sauté, simmer, and serve all in one pot.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and safe, enhancing your preparation efficiency.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even cooking of the ingredients.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Pasta 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.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness that coats the orzo perfectly.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness while sautéing aromatics.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil adds healthy fat for sautéing.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens flavors while zest adds 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 hint of heat; adjust as needed.
• 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 or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion:
1. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

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

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest:
1. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover skillet:
1. Stir in shrimp making sure they are submerged in liquid.
2. Cover again; cook for another 3-5 minutes until shrimp turn pink.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat:
1. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley:
1. Taste; adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot:
1. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a sweet, aromatic touch.
• Extra Parsley: Add more chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add texture and flavor contrast.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread makes for perfect dipping into the creamy sauce.
• French Baguette: A warm baguette adds a classic touch and is great for soaking up leftover sauce.

Accompany with Lemon Wedges

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to brighten their dish as they please.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Perfecting your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they should be pink and opaque, which typically takes only 3-5 minutes.
• Adjust Consistency: If your dish is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
• Customize Seasoning: Taste during cooking and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toast the orzo before adding liquids; this enhances its nutty flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To create a complete meal around your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with it.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutritional value and color. Simply steam until tender.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until crispy for a satisfying crunch.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the orzo’s creaminess.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side option.
5. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Light sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that pairs well without overshadowing the main dish.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; serve it slathered in butter or herbs.
8. Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted peppers make for a colorful addition that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, avoiding common pitfalls can greatly enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using Frozen Shrimp Without Thawing: Always ensure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps them brown better and prevents excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
• Skipping the Toasting Step for Orzo: Toasting orzo enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step; spend 1-2 minutes stirring it in the pan to bring out a richer taste.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A well-seasoned dish is essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Watch closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Using Low-Quality Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a difference. Avoid pre-grated options, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect taste.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon juice for the best flavor. Dried alternatives won’t provide the same aromatic qualities.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

How do I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp creamy?

For a creamy texture, ensure you mix in enough heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese after cooking the shrimp.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the pasta used.

What can I substitute for shrimp in One Pan Parmesan Orzo?

For a different protein option, consider using cooked chicken or turkey pieces. Be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I store leftovers of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Is there a vegetarian version of One Pan Parmesan Orzo?

Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by omitting shrimp and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth while adding more vegetables like spinach or peas.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. It offers the creamy richness of cheese combined with succulent shrimp, making it perfect for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste!