One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the creaminess of orzo pasta and the succulent flavors of shrimp, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep, this recipe packs a punch with its rich taste and comforting texture. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a gourmet meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice creates a creamy sauce bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Easily switch out shrimp for chicken or turkey based on your preference or dietary needs.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes afterward.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process and ensure the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: This pot allows for even cooking and can go from stovetop to oven if needed.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistency in flavor and texture.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 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.

For the Shrimp

• 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.

For the Base

• 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 it, 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.

For Creaminess

• 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 and luxuriousness to the sauce.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness while sautéing aromatics.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil enhances flavor while providing healthy fats.

For Brightness

• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens flavors while lemon zest adds aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to finish off the dish.

For Seasoning

• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add subtle heat—adjust according to preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out all ingredient flavors.

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) 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.
• If using white apple vinegar, pour it into the skillet; simmer briefly while scraping up browned bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

• Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper; bring to boil.
• 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; gently stir in shrimp ensuring they are mostly submerged in liquid.
• Cover again; cook another 3-5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

• Remove 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 needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

• Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired—best enjoyed immediately!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful experience that can be easily tailored to suit any occasion. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish, and there are numerous ways to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Adds a sweet and aromatic touch that complements the shrimp.
• Dill: Offers a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with seafood.
• Microgreens: Provide an elegant presentation and subtle freshness.

Pair with a Crisp Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad of mixed greens drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the orzo.
• Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad adds crunch and is a perfect pairing for this creamy dish.

Serve with Artisan Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds crunch and is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A simple baguette allows guests to enjoy every bite of sauce.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To ensure your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and impress everyone at the table.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, herbs, and cheese significantly improve flavor. Opt for quality ingredients whenever possible.
• Control Heat Levels: Cook shrimp over medium heat to avoid rubbery texture. They should turn pink and opaque without overcooking.
• Deglaze for Flavor: Scrape up any browned bits from the pan when adding broth. This enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Adjust Creaminess: Modify the amount of heavy cream based on personal preference. More cream results in a richer sauce.
• Taste as You Go: Season gradually throughout cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and acidity based on your taste preferences.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Complementing your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is easy with these delicious side dishes. Each one brings something special to your meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until lightly charred offer a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo.
3. Grilled Vegetables: A colorful mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled to perfection enhances the meal’s flavor profile.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned simply are a hearty addition that balances the richness of the main dish.
5. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing complement to the orzo.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds nutrients and a vibrant green contrast to the plate while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold Flavorless Broth: Using low-quality or plain broth can lead to a bland dish. Opt for good quality chicken broth or vegetable broth to enhance the flavor profile.
• Bold Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Monitor them closely, cooking just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Bold Skipping the Toasting Step: Neglecting to toast the orzo can result in a less rich flavor. Take the time to lightly toast it before adding liquids for a nuttier taste.
• Bold Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning throughout cooking can lead to underwhelming flavors. Always taste before serving and adjust accordingly.
• Bold Using Pre-grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated Parmesan. For the best creamy texture, use freshly grated cheese.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the orzo in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated thoroughly.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to regain creaminess while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute other small pasta types like couscous or ditalini. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta used.

What can I use instead of shrimp?

You can replace shrimp with cooked chicken, turkey, or even plant-based protein options if desired. Just ensure they are cooked through before combining.

How do I achieve a creamier sauce?

To enhance creaminess, consider adding more heavy cream or using a bit of cream cheese when mixing in Parmesan.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for entertaining. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or different proteins. Enjoy exploring your own variations!