One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

This One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a creamy, flavorful dish where tender shrimp and al dente orzo cook together in a savory garlic-butter broth, finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs. It’s effortless, delicious comfort food in just one skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love that everything cooks in a single pan, giving the orzo a chance to soak up all the shrimp-infused garlic-butter flavor. The dish is rich, but not heavy, thanks to the light broth and bright parsley. It’s quick to pull together, fancy enough for guests, yet relaxed enough for a cozy weeknight.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Orzo pasta

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Olive oil or butter

• Garlic, minced

• Onion or shallot, finely chopped

• Chicken or vegetable broth

• Lemon juice and zest

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

1. Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add onion or shallot and cook until softened—about 2–3 minutes.

2. Cook garlic & shrimp: Stir in garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until just pink (about 1–2 minutes per side). Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Toast orzo & add broth: Add orzo to the pan, stirring to coat in the flavored oil and toasting lightly for 1–2 minutes. Pour in broth and lemon juice, bring to a simmer.

4. Simmer the pasta: Lower heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed—about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Finish dish: Return shrimp to the pan, stirring to warm through as the last bit of liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, stir in lemon zest, Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon.

6. Serve immediately: Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.

• Preparation time: about 5 minutes

• Cook time: approximately 15 minutes

• Total time: around 20 minutes

Variations

• Creamier version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter with the Parmesan for extra richness.

• Veggie add-ins: I often toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.

• Cheese variation: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper flavor.

• Spicy twist: I add sliced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne for heat.

storage/reheating

• Storage: I transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

• Freezing: This is best enjoyed fresh—freezing changes the texture of orzo and shrimp.

• Reheating: I reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or olive oil until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—I thawed and patted them dry before cooking to avoid excess liquid, and they worked perfectly.

What if I don’t have orzo?

I substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even risotto rice like Arborio, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely—I omit the cheese or use dairy-free Parmesan-style alternatives.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

I stir every couple of minutes while simmering and ensure there’s enough broth so it doesn’t dry out too quickly.

Can I prep ahead?

I’ll sometimes cook the orzo ahead and toss it with shrimp and cheese right before serving. The flavors stay fresh, though the texture shifts slightly.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a fast, flavorful dish that tastes like a treat without fuss. It’s creamy, bright, and perfect for any night of the week. I hope cooking and sharing this satisfying skillet meal brings you as much comfort and joy as it does for me!