One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together creamy orzo and tender shrimp in a single skillet. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a comforting yet elegant meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the fuss.
• Flavorful and Rich: The creamy Parmesan sauce combined with succulent shrimp creates a mouthwatering dish that will impress any guest.
• Versatile Option: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends; this dish works well for various occasions.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings when time is limited.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add vegetables to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for sautéing and simmering in one vessel, saving time and effort.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your onions and garlic, enhancing your chopping efficiency.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dish.

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 Flavor 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). Adds depth and acidity to the sauce; if not using, substitute with additional chicken broth.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced. Forms the aromatic base of the dish.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Essential for flavor; freshly minced garlic is always preferred.

For Creaminess

• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to creating a rich sauce.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Adds richness and creates a velvety texture.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Provides flavor while sautéing aromatics.

For Finishing Touches

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing; extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Brightens flavors in the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Adds freshness to finish off the dish.

Seasonings

• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Adjust based on heat 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 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 until fragrant—around one minute.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Apple Vinegar (Optional)

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

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before lowering heat to simmer covered for around 10–12 minutes.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cook

Uncover your skillet; gently stir in shrimp making sure they are mostly submerged in liquid. Cover again; let them cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until pink.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove from heat; incorporate grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted completely forming a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Mix fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley into your dish! Taste test before adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished optionally with extra Parmesan cheese! Enjoy your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp while warm!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Serving One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is all about enhancing its rich flavors while keeping things simple and delightful. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives can add a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Pair with a Light Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and baby greens drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy orzo perfectly.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Crisp baguette slices offer an elegant touch and great texture alongside the creamy orzo.

Add a Squeeze of Citrus

• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges allows guests to add a splash of extra acidity if desired, brightening the dish further.
• Lime Zest: Incorporate lime zest for a unique twist that complements the shrimp beautifully.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

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

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and good-quality Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque to maintain their tender texture; they cook quickly!
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting orzo before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb broth better.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and acidity to achieve balanced flavors throughout.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce slightly and melds flavors together.
• Experiment with Broth Varieties: Feel free to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter option or explore different flavors!

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Completing your meal with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle lightly with olive oil and roast until tender; their earthy flavor pairs well with shrimp.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sauté green beans in olive oil with minced garlic for a crunchy side that adds freshness.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, balancing the richness of the orzo.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Season zucchini slices and grill them until charred; their smoky flavor complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad features quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing contrast.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A light salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar adds crunch and acidity that works well alongside rich dishes.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with herb butter serves as a sweet companion to your savory main course.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with rice, vegetables, or beans for a colorful side that adds depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; if left too long in the heat, they become rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Skipping the Broth Toasting: Not toasting the orzo before adding broth can result in less flavor. Always toast the orzo for a minute or two to enhance its natural nuttiness.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Using pre-grated cheese can lead to a grainy sauce due to anti-caking agents. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth and creamy finish.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking can lead to blandness. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not Allowing Liquid to Absorb Properly: Rushing through the simmering phase can result in undercooked orzo. Ensure you let it simmer undisturbed until most of the liquid is absorbed.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old garlic can dull the flavors. Always use fresh garlic and herbs for the best aroma and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into single servings for easier thawing.

Reheating One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place orzo in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally, adding a little broth or cream if needed until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta type.

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

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

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

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread also complements it nicely.

Can I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is it okay to add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or peas during cooking for added nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!