There’s something truly special about a quick and hearty meal that transforms a chaotic weeknight into a delightful culinary experience. As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sautéing garlic and onion filled the air, whisking me away to memories of Mediterranean shores. The inspiration for this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp struck me as I craved comfort food but wanted to avoid the usual hustle and mess.
Picture this: tender orzo enveloped in a creamy sauce, with perfectly cooked shrimp bringing a delightful touch of elegance to the table. Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it also gives you the gift of simplicity—because who wants to spend hours cleaning up after dinner? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a busy parent seeking a family-friendly meal, this recipe promises to impress even the pickiest eaters. So, let’s dive into this creamy delight and make weeknight dinners something to look forward to!
Why is One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Finest: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Creamy Yumminess: The luscious combination of cream and Parmesan creates indulgent comfort.
Quick Meal Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying dinner.
Flavor-Packed: Infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon for bright, savory goodness.
Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for dietary needs—think dairy-free or even a vegan twist!
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that can elevate any weeknight. Enjoy it alongside a crisp salad for a complete dinner that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.
One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Ingredients
For the Orzo Dish
• Orzo Pasta – The base of the dish providing structure; you can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or stelline.
• Shrimp – Offers protein and depth; frozen shrimp can be used—just thaw and pat dry ahead of time.
• Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; opt for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
• White Wine – Intensifies flavor complexity; easily replace with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
• Yellow Onion – Provides an aromatic base; dice finely for even cooking.
• Garlic – Essential for flavor; fresh minced garlic delivers the best taste.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and umami; switch to nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a silky texture; full-fat coconut milk serves as a lovely substitute for dairy-free.
• Butter – Enhances richness; olive oil can be used for a dairy-free variation.
• Olive Oil – For sautéing aromatics; choose extra virgin for the best flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Brings a bright acidity; using fresh juice is always preferred.
For the Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Offers freshness and visual appeal; can be substituted with other herbs like basil or dill.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a touch of spice; adjust based on your heat preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp may become your go-to dish that perfectly balances simplicity with rich flavors. Enjoy!
How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in your pan over medium heat, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Orzo and Wine: Toss in the orzo pasta, followed by the optional splash of white wine. Stir everything together, allowing the orzo to soak in those lovely flavors for about 1 minute.
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Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente—this should take around 10 minutes.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn a beautiful pink and are opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Mix in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Keep stirring until you achieve that creamy, luscious consistency, which should take another 2-3 minutes.
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Finish and Serve: Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley just before serving. Enjoy your delightful dish hot!
Optional: Serve with a crisp side salad or crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cool completely, portion into airtight freezer bags, and remove excess air before sealing.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a little broth while warming to restore creaminess and prevent sticking.
Tips: Avoid freezing with shrimp if you plan to enjoy the dish later; instead, add freshly cooked shrimp during reheating for the best flavor.
Expert Tips for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
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Thaw Shrimp Properly: Make sure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This ensures a nice sear and prevents them from becoming rubbery.
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Watch the Heat: If your orzo starts to stick, adjust the heat down and add more broth gradually. Stir gently to release any stuck pasta.
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Creamy Consistency: For a creamier texture, let the dish sit for a minute after mixing in the cream and cheese. This allows the sauce to thicken naturally.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp by using your favorite herbs like thyme or smoked paprika for varied flavor profiles.
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Save Time on Cleanup: Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and even easier cleanup, so you can relax after a busy evening prepping dinner.
What to Serve with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?
Imagine a beautifully set table, where the aroma of creamy parmesan orzo mingles with the scents of fresh greens and warm bread. This meal truly deserves the company of delightful sides.
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Crisp Green Salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the orzo, adding a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. It’s a comforting companion that transforms every bite into a cozy experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a colorful twist. Their sweetness complements the savory notes of the dish beautifully.
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a lovely green freshness and a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy orzo.
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Herb-Infused Quinoa: Pair it with a side of quinoa tossed with fresh herbs. This adds a nutty flavor and a wholesome touch while keeping the meal light.
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Chardonnay: Enjoy a glass of chilled Chardonnay with your meal, enhancing the flavors and providing a celebratory finish to your dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after the rich dish, leaving a zesty aftertaste that completes your meal perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onion and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save precious time. The orzo can also be pre-measured, and you can even cook the shrimp ahead of time (just ensure they are fully cooled before refrigerating). When you’re ready to serve, simply heat up olive oil in the pan, sauté the aromatics, and add the prepped ingredients. Finish it off with the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy result that’s just as delicious as if it were made fresh. This way, you’ll enjoy a quick dinner with minimal effort!
One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists to make this dish your own!
- Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a deliciously creamy vegan version.
- Vegan Option: Swap shrimp for chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms to keep the protein and add a hearty texture.
- Pasta Swap: If orzo is not available, use ditalini or even rice for a fun twist—experiment with what you have on hand!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or dill instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile that brightens the whole dish.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce if you’re craving some heat; it’ll give just the right amount of zing!
- Lemon Zest Boost: Grate some fresh lemon zest on top just before serving for an extra citrusy brightness that elevates the dish.
- Seafood Twist: For a seafood lover’s delight, incorporate scallops or crab meat alongside the shrimp for an indulgent variation.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in some spinach or steamed broccoli during the cooking process to sneak in some greens and add vibrant color.
With these variations, you can create countless versions of this comforting dish and keep your weeknight dinners exciting!
One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of orzo should I use for the recipe?
You’ll want to use regular orzo pasta for this dish, as it provides the perfect texture and structure. If you don’t have orzo on hand, feel free to substitute it with similar small pasta shapes like ditalini or stelline. The key is to pick a pasta that can cook through in the same time as your shrimp and broth to ensure everything comes together deliciously.
How should I store leftovers of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of broth or water to help revive that creamy texture, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Just gently heat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. For optimal flavor, avoid freezing with cooked shrimp. Instead, add freshly cooked shrimp when you reheat the dish for the best results.
What should I do if the orzo is sticking to the pan?
If you notice that the orzo is sticking, this could be due to the heat being too high. Simply reduce the heat and add a little more broth gradually while stirring gently. This will help release any stuck pasta without compromising the dish’s creamy consistency.
Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! The One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast. If you prefer a vegan option, simply substitute shrimp with plant-based alternatives or additional veggies, and you’re all set for a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy!
One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp for Effortless Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in your pan over medium heat, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the orzo pasta, followed by the optional splash of white wine. Stir everything together, allowing the orzo to soak in those lovely flavors for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente—this should take around 10 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn a beautiful pink and are opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Keep stirring until you achieve that creamy, luscious consistency, which should take another 2-3 minutes.
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley just before serving. Enjoy your delightful dish hot!