One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

One warm evening in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic and shrimp filled the air as I prepared a delightful meal that brought back memories of cozy family dinners. This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pan not only saves time on cleanup but ensures all the flavors meld beautifully, creating a deliciously creamy dish.

This recipe is for anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option. It’s a great choice for a weeknight meal or an impromptu get-together. You can easily prepare the dish ahead of time; just reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The orzo absorbs the rich broth, enhancing its flavor with each bite.
• Creamy parmesan cheese creates a luscious texture that beautifully coats the shrimp.
• Cooking everything in one pan means minimal cleanup afterward.
• The dish is ready in about 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.

What You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Protein

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

For Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Use low-sodium broth for a lighter dish.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Orzo: Swap with rice or quinoa.
• Heavy cream: Use a non-dairy cream alternative.
• Shrimp: Replace with chicken or vegetables.

How to Make It

Here’s a simple way to prepare this delicious dish.

1. Heat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

2. Cook

Add minced garlic and shrimp to the skillet, cooking until shrimp turns pink, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir

Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer

Reduce heat and simmer until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.

5. Combine

Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until creamy and well-combined.

6. Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as desired.

7. Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the cream can change texture when frozen.
Reheat: Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Use wild-caught shrimp for better flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy.
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
• Finish with lemon juice for added brightness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a nice dinner pairing.