This Easy One Pan Parmesan Shrimp Orzo is a fun and tasty dish that brings juicy shrimp and creamy cheese together in one pot. Just imagine the deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh, raw shrimp works best for this dish as it stays juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use cooked shrimp, just add it near the end to warm through. Frozen shrimp can also be used; just thaw completely before cooking.
Orzo: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t have orzo, try substituting with other small pasta types like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Keep in mind cooking times may vary for different grains.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. For a slightly different flavor, you might try Pecorino Romano. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor as well.
Heavy Cream: This is optional but adds a lovely creaminess. You can swap it with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a non-dairy option that brings a unique flavor.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly in One Pan?
Cooking shrimp correctly is key to keeping them tender and juicy. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Start with a hot pan and wait until the oil is warm before adding shrimp.
- Cook shrimp quickly—just about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to cook evenly.
- Remove them from the pan as soon as they’re cooked to prevent overcooking.
This technique ensures perfectly cooked shrimp that won’t turn rubbery in your dish!
Easy One Pan Parmesan Shrimp Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier texture)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and delicious meal ready in just about 35 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Just be careful not to let it brown too much!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the raw shrimp to the pan. Season them with salt, 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 for later.
3. Toast the Orzo:
In the same pan, add the orzo and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step adds a lovely nutty flavor to the pasta!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
5. Combine All Ingredients:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if you’re using it), lemon juice, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
6. Add the Shrimp Back:
Gently return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Mix everything together nicely and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one pan Parmesan shrimp orzo!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, then warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, or substitute them with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and coconut cream for richness.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. You can also use a spicier seasoning blend if you prefer!
