One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving something that straddles the line between luxurious comfort food and weeknight simplicity, say hello to One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This dish is a weeknight lifesaver—creamy, cheesy orzo studded with juicy, tender shrimp, all cooked together in a single skillet for the ultimate in flavor and minimal cleanup. It brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh lemon, garlic, and Parmesan with the rich, savory notes of perfectly cooked shrimp, all melded together in a luscious sauce that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Whether you’re new to orzo or just searching for a dinner that feels special but doesn’t stress you out, One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp so wonderful is how it turns a handful of wholesome, everyday ingredients into a dish bursting with both comfort and elegance. Each ingredient pulls its weight—bringing depth, texture, color, and those crave-worthy flavors that make this meal unforgettable.

• Orzo Pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce for an irresistibly creamy texture.
• Shrimp: Use medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the perfect bite and a pretty pink finish.
• Chicken Broth: A savory, flavorful base—go for low-sodium so you can control the seasoning to your taste.
• White Wine: Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio adds brightness and a gentle acidity; skip it for more savory broth if you’d rather.
• Yellow Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and complexity as it cooks down in the butter and olive oil.
• Garlic: There’s no such thing as too much garlic here—use freshly minced for the fullest flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts seamlessly into the orzo, making every bite rich and cheesy.
• Heavy Cream: Just a splash creates that lusciously smooth sauce that clings to every piece of orzo.
• Butter: Sautéeing in butter delivers comforting richness to the aromatics and shrimp alike.
• Olive Oil: A good extra-virgin olive oil brings healthy fats and a deep, almost peppery note to the pan.
• Lemon: The juice adds zing to cut through the creaminess, while the zest freshens every spoonful.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds an herbaceous, vibrant pop of color and flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a pinch brings a gentle heat you can dial up or down.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Taste throughout to bring all those fabulous flavors into perfect balance.

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start things off right by heating your olive oil and butter in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven. Add your diced onion and let it simmer gently over medium heat, coaxing out its natural sweetness. Once translucent and softened (about 5 minutes), add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. The key here is to stir constantly and be patient—let the aromatics do their job without letting the garlic get too brown. This aromatic base sets the entire tone for your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo & Deglaze

Sprinkle the orzo into your aromatic base and give it a couple of minutes to toast. This step enhances its nutty character and sets it up perfectly to suck up the broth and flavors to come. If you have white wine on hand, now’s the time to pour it in and deglaze, using your spoon to scrape up any golden bits clinging to the pan. Let the wine bubble and reduce for about a minute. Deglazing isn’t just chef-y flair—it enriches the whole experience of your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in your chicken broth (or veggie broth, if going vegetarian), along with lemon zest, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently and bring it to a low boil. Reduce the heat, get that lid on, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. This step is what transforms ordinary orzo into a silky, flavor-packed base—and the smell at this stage is amazing! Check for al dente doneness. You want orzo that’s firm, not mushy, as it will cook a little more in the next steps.

Step 4: Add and Cook the Shrimp

Uncover the pan and nestle your shrimp right into the orzo, making sure they’re mostly submerged so they cook evenly. Put the lid back on, and let everything go for just 3 to 5 minutes more. The shrimp will turn from translucent gray to pink and opaque, signaling they’re ready. Be mindful here—overcooked shrimp can get rubbery! This timing ensures every bite of your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is perfectly juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Watch as the cheese melts seamlessly into the orzo, making a luscious, silky sauce that coats every kernel. The residual heat finishes blending all the flavors without risk of curdling the cream. If you want it extra cheesy, feel free to scatter another handful of Parmesan right on top!

Step 6: Brighten with Lemon and Parsley

Add a final flourish of fresh lemon juice and generous chopped parsley. Not only do they brighten and balance the richness, but they also make the dish look as gorgeous as it tastes. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning one last time with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Savor!

Spoon your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp into bowls straight from the stove—it’s at its creamiest and most comforting now. Finish with more parsley and grated Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy every bite of this easy, elegant meal!

How to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Garnishes

A simple scatter of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese never fails to impress. For a bit of extra zing, finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a touch more lemon zest just before serving. These fresh, bright pops atop One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp can make the colors sing and the flavors shine a little brighter.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is rich and creamy, it pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Think crisp, lemon-dressed salads with arugula or spinach, or simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccolini. A hunk of warm, crusty bread is perfect for swiping up every last bit of the decadent sauce—trust me, you don’t want any of that cheese-and-shrimp goodness to go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this meal into a showstopper by piling your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp into shallow pasta bowls and draping a few whole, tail-on shrimp right on top for a restaurant-worthy look. Or, serve it family-style in the skillet at the center of the table for a cozy, communal vibe. For dinner parties, spoon it into mini ramekins with a sprinkle of microgreens for an unexpected, elegant appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp to an airtight container and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. It keeps well for up to two days, though the shrimp are at their best when freshly cooked. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so expect a slightly thicker, more risotto-like texture the next day.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze leftovers, keep in mind that the creamy sauce may separate and the shrimp can become a bit rubbery upon thawing. If you do freeze, scoop the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container and store for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and be prepared to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the orzo and shrimp in a saucepan over medium-low heat with a splash more chicken broth or even water to help loosen the sauce. Stir gently, just until warmed through—overheating can overcook the shrimp. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring occasionally, for a quick lunch the next day. If you have extra Parmesan, it never hurts to melt a little more on top before serving!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water, and pat them very dry before adding to the pan. This helps you get that perfect, juicy texture and ensures the shrimp cook evenly in your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer something lighter, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, whole milk, or even a plain, unsweetened plant-based cream alternative. The final sauce will be a bit less rich, but still creamy and delicious!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! For a vegetarian take on One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, simply omit the shrimp and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You might want to add some sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra heft and color.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stir gently and frequently, especially during the early stages of simmering. If a little orzo does cling to the bottom, don’t panic—once you add the wine or broth, scrape up those golden bits with your spoon; they add great flavor to the finished dish.

Which white wines work best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a Chardonnay (that’s not too oaky) are lovely choices. The wine’s acidity complements the creaminess and brightens up the shrimp flavors in your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting, impressive meal that’s a breeze to pull together, One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp absolutely fits the bill. It’s bursting with creamy, cheesy flavor and packed with juicy shrimp, all in a single skillet. Give it a try—you just might find it becomes your new weeknight favorite and a go-to for sharing with family and friends!

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