One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This one-pan meal is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The standout feature is its ability to come together in just one pan, allowing for easy cleanup while delivering a comforting and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh lemon creates a deliciously creamy sauce that coats the orzo beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey if you prefer a different protein.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, reducing cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired spice level, or omit them for a milder dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: This tool allows for even cooking and can go from stovetop to oven, making it ideal for this one-pan recipe.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables like onion and garlic.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your 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 to create a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics and shrimp. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
• 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.
• 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.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of all ingredients.

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 Apple Vinegar (Optional)

Add orzo pasta to the skillet.
* Toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly until lightly golden.
* If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet now; let it simmer briefly.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
* Bring mixture to boil then reduce heat; cover & simmer for about 10-12 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover skillet; gently stir in shrimp ensuring they are mostly submerged in liquid.
* Cover again & cook an additional 3-5 minutes until shrimp turn pink & are cooked through.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese & Cream

Remove skillet from heat; stir in grated Parmesan cheese & heavy cream until smooth.
* Ensure cheese has melted fully into sauce creating richness.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice & Parsley

Stir in fresh lemon juice & chopped parsley; adjust seasoning as needed with salt & pepper.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese & fresh parsley if desired; best enjoyed warm!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can transform a simple meal into an elegant dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish that highlight its rich flavors and textures.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Lightly dressed mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the shrimp and cheese.
• Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with diced tomatoes and cucumbers adds brightness and crunch to your meal.

Add Bread for Dipping

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce left on your plate.
• Crusty Baguette: Slices of fresh baguette offer a delightful texture and are ideal for dipping into the orzo.
• Herbed Focaccia: The herb-infused flavors of focaccia enhance the overall taste experience.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus that elevates each bite.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top enhances the cheesy goodness.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of extra parsley or basil adds freshness and vibrant color.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To make your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp even more delightful, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bite is just right!

• Boldly Season Early: Start seasoning your dish from the beginning. This helps layer flavor throughout the cooking process.
• Carefully Monitor Shrimp Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly; aim for just 3-5 minutes to avoid rubbery texture. They should be pink and opaque when done.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality Parmesan cheese and fresh shrimp significantly enhance flavor. Don’t compromise on these key components.
• Experiment with Broth Types: While chicken broth is recommended, vegetable broth can add unique flavor profiles for variety.
• Adjust Creaminess Level: Feel free to alter the amount of heavy cream depending on how rich you want your dish to be. Less cream results in a lighter sauce.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: For added nutrition and color, mix in seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

When it comes to serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, pairing it with complementary side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here’s a list of perfect side options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus seasoned with garlic adds both flavor and color to your plate. Simply roast until tender.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli florets offer a healthy crunch. Steam lightly to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative that pairs well with creamy sauces.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that complement the richness of the orzo dish beautifully.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh appetizer or side that’s visually appealing.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn boiled or grilled brings sweetness that balances savory dishes perfectly; serve slathered in butter if desired.
7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad full of chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta provides freshness alongside your main dish.
8. Grilled Eggplant Slices: Smoky grilled eggplant not only adds depth but also provides a hearty component that pairs well with shrimp flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Inadequate Sautéing: Not cooking the onions and garlic long enough can lead to a lack of flavor. Ensure you sauté them until they are softened and fragrant to form a solid base.
• Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat once they turn pink and opaque.
• Skipping Toasting the Orzo: Toasting the orzo enhances its flavor. Take a few minutes to toast it in the skillet before adding broth for a nuttier taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste your dish as you cook. Failing to adjust seasoning can result in bland flavors; add salt and pepper as needed throughout the process.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using poor-quality broth or cheese can significantly affect the dish’s taste. Opt for good quality ingredients for the best creamy texture and flavor.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover dish with foil, reheat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan, add a splash of chicken broth or water, heat over low until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, here are some answers!

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

You can substitute other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous, but cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should be firm but not rubbery.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute shrimp with vegetables like zucchini or asparagus and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation time is approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is an appealing dish that combines creamy textures with savory flavors. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping out proteins based on your preferences!