This Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a quick and tasty meal! The creamy orzo, combined with juicy shrimp and a sprinkle of cheese, makes it super comforting.
You won’t believe how easy it is to clean up since everything cooks in one pan! Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something yummy without the fuss. 🦐🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp are the star here! If shrimp isn’t your thing or you can’t find any, try using chicken, scallops, or even a mix of veggies for a different flavor.
Orzo: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. If you’re out of orzo, you can swap in rice or other small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a creamy richness. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or a dash of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
Chicken Broth: I use chicken broth for depth of flavor. Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you want a lighter taste or are keeping it vegetarian.
How Do I Get The Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is easy once you know how! Here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Use a hot skillet to quickly sear the shrimp—this seals in moisture.
- Cook for just 2 minutes per side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can steam them instead of searing.
Remember, shrimp can overcook quickly, so keep an eye on them! Toss them in at the end to warm through and avoid rubbery shrimp.
How to Make Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the main dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the hot pan. Season them with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pan, add the butter and let it melt. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This will add great flavor to your orzo!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Now, add the orzo pasta to the pan. Stir it well to coat it in the butter and mixture. Toast the orzo for about 1-2 minutes, just enough to get a slight golden color and enhance the nutty flavor.
4. Add Liquid and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Cover the pan with a lid and let the orzo cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Create Creamy Goodness:
Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it’s creamy and delicious. The cheese will melt and blend beautifully with the orzo.
7. Add the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to bring back those shrimp! Add them back into the pan and gently toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes just to heat the shrimp through.
8. Finish It Off:
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish for a fresh zing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-pan Parmesan orzo with shrimp while it’s hot!
Enjoy your meal! This dish is sure to impress and satisfy!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo from drying out.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This orzo dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for some extra greens. A nice crusty bread also pairs well to soak up the delicious sauce!
