This Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a tasty dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze! Creamy orzo cooked with shrimp and parmesan is simply delightful.
You’ll love how everything cooks in one pan. Less mess means more time for a second helping! I personally can’t resist the cheesy goodness—so comforting! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well here. You can swap shrimp for chicken or even vegetables like zucchini if you prefer a meatless option.
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is key for a creamy texture. If orzo isn’t available, you can use rice or couscous instead. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds great flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Chicken Broth: While chicken broth adds nice depth, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for a lighter option. Homemade broth is always a great idea if you have it!
Heavy Cream: This is optional but adds a velvety touch. If you’re looking for lighter options, try using half-and-half or almond milk for a healthier twist.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp right ensures they are juicy and flavorful. Here’s how you do it:
- Heat olive oil on medium heat and add minced garlic. Don’t let garlic brown—just until fragrant.
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning before adding them to the pan.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turns pink and opaque—this means they’re done!
- Remove them from the pan to avoid overcooking while finishing the orzo.
Perfectly cooked shrimp should be slightly firm to touch but not rubbery. Time is key here!
Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and about 20 minutes to cook everything until it’s perfectly creamy and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as that can change the flavor.
2. Cooking the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the pan. Season them with salt, black pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
3. Toasting the Orzo:
In the same pan, add the uncooked orzo. Toast it lightly by stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This step will help enhance its flavor.
4. Cooking the Orzo:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. You want the orzo to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
5. Adding Creaminess:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and the heavy cream (if using) for that extra creaminess. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
6. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently toss everything together. Let it warm together for 1-2 minutes so it’s heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a touch of freshness. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy your creamy, savory one-pan meal!
This dish not only tastes fantastic but also saves time on washing up. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Can I Use Different Types of Seafood?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute shrimp with scallops or even a firm white fish like cod. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary—fish cooks faster than shrimp!
How Can I Make This Dish Creamier?
If you want an extra creamy texture, include the optional heavy cream and consider adding a bit more Parmesan cheese. For a lighter option, you can use a splash of milk or non-dairy cream alternatives.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the consistency.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette!
