One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delicious and easy dish that brings together the flavors of shrimp, creamy Parmesan cheese, and tender orzo pasta in just one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple techniques makes it a standout choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The blend of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon creates a rich and zesty taste that elevates the dish.
• One Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup while still delivering a gourmet experience.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and succulent shrimp, it’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this flavorful One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

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: Ideal for cooking everything in one pan, allowing for even heat distribution.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly dicing onions and mincing garlic to enhance the flavor base.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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.
• 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.

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 Flavoring

• 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.
• 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.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle hint of heat; adjust to your preference.

For Creaminess

• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to the creamy sauce. Use good quality Parmesan for rich flavor.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness and luxuriousness to the sauce.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness while sautéing aromatics.

For Garnish

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil adds healthy fat; extra virgin is recommended for flavor.
• Lemon: 1, juiced and zested. Lemon juice brightens flavors while lemon zest enhances aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out all 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); cook 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; let it simmer while scraping up browned bits from the pan.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Bring mixture to boil; reduce heat to low, 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 are pink.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove skillet from heat; stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream until melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

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

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish warm!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish that can stand alone, but it’s also versatile enough to pair with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes tossed in lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy orzo.
• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and bold flavors that balance the richness of the dish.

With Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce, adding a satisfying crunch.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: These cheesy delights are perfect for scooping up the orzo and shrimp, making every bite enjoyable.

With Wine Pairing

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal’s flavors and brings out the acidity in the dish.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon wedges to cleanse the palate.

How to Perfect One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

To achieve perfection in your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, consider these expert tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste and texture of your dish.
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before adding liquid deepens its nutty flavor, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp that detracts from your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper at different stages of cooking for balanced flavors throughout.
• Add Lemon Juice Last: Stirring in lemon juice at the end brightens flavors without cooking off its freshness, providing a vibrant finish.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like basil or dill instead of parsley for unique flavor variations that complement your orzo.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: This simple side adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor, balancing the creaminess of the orzo.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli provides nutrients and pairs perfectly with the rich sauce of the orzo.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a fresh appetizer that’s easy to prepare.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative while adding additional vegetables to your meal.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and slightly bitter flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
6. Panzanella Salad: This bread salad featuring ripe tomatoes and cucumbers is refreshing and provides a nice contrast to creamy pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic properly can lead to a bland dish. Always cook them until softened and fragrant to build flavor.
• Overcooking Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery and tough. Keep an eye on them, as they only need 3-5 minutes to cook through.
• Not Using Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality pasta or cheese diminishes the dish’s overall taste. Invest in good quality orzo and fresh Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Neglecting to season during cooking can make your dish taste flat. Season throughout the process and adjust at the end for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping Lemon Juice: Omitting lemon juice removes essential brightness from the dish. Always add it at the end to enhance flavors and balance richness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

• This dish can be frozen, but it’s best consumed fresh for optimal texture.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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 heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or water and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp with scallops or even crab meat. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for different seafood.

What is the best way to store leftovers of One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

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

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

For extra creaminess, increase the amount of heavy cream or add more grated Parmesan cheese when finishing the dish.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. This creamy dish can easily be customized by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try today; you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is!