One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together creamy orzo pasta and succulent shrimp in one convenient skillet. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of rich Parmesan cheese and zesty lemon creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor this comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The rich combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the orzo.
• Versatile: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish fits any occasion seamlessly.
• Low-Maintenance Cooking: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices for a personal touch!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more 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 allows for even cooking and makes it easy to transition from stovetop to oven if needed.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this dish.

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 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. 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.
• 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 while lemon zest adds extra citrus 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 subtle heat; adjust according to 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; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

• Add orzo pasta; toast it lightly while stirring constantly (for about 1–2 minutes).
• If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet; deglaze by scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

• Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest; season with salt and pepper.
• Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, simmer for about 10–12 minutes until orzo is almost cooked through.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

• Uncover skillet; gently stir in shrimp ensuring they are mostly submerged in liquid.
• Cover again; cook until shrimp are pink (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese and Cream

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

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

• Stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley; adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

• Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a comforting and creamy dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Adding fresh basil enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful color contrast.
• Extra Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds freshness but also makes for an appealing presentation.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery bite that balances the richness of the orzo.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness and acidity.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Crisp baguette slices serve as a great side for scooping up the orzo and shrimp.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To make sure your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality shrimp and fresh Parmesan cheese to enhance the overall flavor.
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before adding broth gives it a nuttier flavor and better texture.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on both the orzo and shrimp to prevent overcooking; they should remain tender yet firm.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook, adjusting salt and pepper to ensure balanced flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Utilize Residual Heat: Allow the skillet to sit off heat after adding cream and cheese; this helps meld all the flavors seamlessly.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Complementing your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is easy when you choose the right sides. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-rich vegetable provides a lovely crunch and bright color contrast.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus tossed in olive oil offers great flavor while being easy to prepare.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned zucchini spears grilled until tender add a delicious, smoky element.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing create a classic pairing that’s always satisfying.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn serves as a delightful side that brings summer vibes to your table.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic adds nutritional value while complementing the main dish’s creaminess.
7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar brings refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the orzo.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with savory flavors of shrimp and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using Frozen Shrimp Without Thawing: Always ensure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents the dish from becoming watery.

• Overcooking the Orzo: Keep an eye on cooking times. Overcooked orzo becomes mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain a pleasant texture.

• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Neglecting to deglaze the pan after toasting orzo can lead to a less flavorful sauce. Use apple vinegar or broth to scrape up those delicious browned bits.

• Not Tasting While Cooking: Failing to taste as you go can result in an unseasoned dish. Adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process for the best flavor.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients like old garlic or cheese can diminish the dish’s overall taste. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp that might help you out!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, while orzo is recommended for its creamy texture, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous, but cooking times may vary.

What can I substitute for shrimp?

If you’re not fond of shrimp, consider using chicken or turkey pieces as a protein alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.

How can I enhance the flavors of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

You can add herbs like thyme or basil during cooking for extra flavor. A squeeze of lemon right before serving adds freshness too!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead by cooking everything except the shrimp. Add them just before serving for optimal texture.

Is there a gluten-free option available?

Yes! Substitute traditional orzo with gluten-free pasta alternatives that have similar shapes and textures to keep it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its versatility allows for endless customization—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out proteins based on your preferences. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!