Description
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.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion or shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes in the flavored oil.
- Add broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the orzo is tender and most liquid absorbed, return shrimp to skillet and stir to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- Stir orzo while simmering to prevent sticking or uneven cooking.
- Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper cheese flavor if desired.
- Add spinach, peas, or tomatoes toward the end for extra nutrition.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a pat of butter when finishing the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
