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One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

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Max usually scrunches his nose at "fancy" pasta; but the moment the smell of toasted garlic hits the air; he is the first one at the counter. This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is our go-to for busy school nights because it feels like a restaurant treat without the mountain of dishes. We love how the creamy cheese hugs every grain of orzo; creating a comforting bowl that makes the whole family slow down and enjoy.

A creamy one-pan meal featuring tender orzo and succulent shrimp in a garlic parmesan sauce. This dinner saves time and cleanup for busy families.
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A close-up view of a savory seafood dish featuring creamy, yellow-hued orzo pasta. The pasta is topped with several golden-seared shrimp and garnished with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
A close-up view of a savory seafood dish featuring creamy, yellow-hued orzo pasta. The pasta is topped with several golden-seared shrimp and garnished with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Save it For Later
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Why You Will Love This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

You will adore this recipe because it is incredibly efficient; cooking the pasta directly in the broth to maximize flavor while keeping your cleanup to just one single pan. The combination of succulent shrimp and sharp parmesan creates a sophisticated flavor profile that remains simple enough for even the pickiest eaters to enjoy.

How To Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

This dish is a modern weeknight staple that uses the absorption method to cook orzo in a savory liquid; resulting in a texture similar to a quick risotto. By searing the shrimp first and then simmering the pasta in the same pan; we build layers of seafood flavor that are finished with a generous dusting of cheese and fresh herbs for a bright; balanced finish.

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp; peeled and deveined -
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta -
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth -
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese -
  • 3 cloves garlic; minced -
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter -
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil -
  • ½ cup heavy cream -
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano -
  • Fresh parsley; chopped for garnish -
  • Salt and black pepper to taste -
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Step by Step Method

  • Sear the shrimp
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook shrimp until pink and opaque; then remove and set aside.
  • Toast the orzo
    • Melt butter in the same pan and stir in the dry orzo and garlic until the pasta smells nutty.
  • Simmer the pasta
    • Pour in the broth and oregano; bringing to a boil before lowering heat to let the orzo absorb the liquid.
  • Create the sauce
    • Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese once the orzo is tender to create a thick; velvety coating.
  • Finish and serve
    • Toss the cooked shrimp back into the pan and garnish with extra cheese and parsley before plating.
A high-angle, full-plate view of creamy parmesan orzo served on a plate with a dark rim. Seared shrimp are arranged in a circle on top of the pasta, sprinkled with fresh herbs and grated cheese. Save it For Later

MAX’S REACTION

"It's like tiny rice but better because it's cheesy; and these shrimp are like little prizes in every bite!"

What Pairs Well With One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

This creamy seafood dish is quite rich; so it pairs beautifully with a crisp; acidic side like a lemon-dressed arugula salad or roasted asparagus. If you want to lean into the comfort factor; a slice of warm crusty sourdough is perfect for swiping up any remaining parmesan sauce left on the plate.

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Variations

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp and Tomatoes

Fold in a cup of halved cherry tomatoes during the simmering stage to add bursts of sweetness and a vibrant red color to the dish.

Shrimp and Orzo with Spinach

Stir in two handfuls of fresh baby spinach right at the end; the residual heat will wilt the greens perfectly while adding a nutritional boost.

Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo

Add the zest of one whole lemon and an extra teaspoon of cracked black pepper to the shrimp for a zesty; bright citrus kick.

Tuscan Shrimp Orzo

Include sun-dried tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a rustic Italian flavor profile that feels warm and deeply savory.

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Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan -
  • Wooden spoon or spatula -
  • Measuring cups and spoons -
  • Mom Tip: Use a pan with high sides to prevent the broth from splashing over while the orzo simmers and expands!

Storage / Make Ahead / Serving Tips

Refrigeration Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days; though seafood is always best enjoyed immediately.

Best Reheating Method

When reheating; add a splash of broth or milk to the pan to loosen the sauce; as the orzo will continue to absorb moisture as it sits.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish immediately while the cheese is still melty and the shrimp are tender; as overcooking during reheating can make the shrimp rubbery.

Top Tips for Best One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

The biggest secret to a successful orzo dish is to keep the pasta moving; stir it occasionally as it simmers to release the starches for a creamier sauce. Make sure you don't overcook the shrimp during the initial sear; just a minute or two per side is plenty since they will warm through again at the very end. I always recommend using a high-quality parmesan that you grate yourself because the pre-shredded stuff often has coatings that prevent it from melting smoothly into the orzo. Lastly; if the liquid is absorbed but the orzo still feels a bit crunchy; just add a quarter cup more broth and keep simmering for another minute.

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes; just make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before searing so they get a nice golden crust.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even whole milk; though the final sauce won't be quite as thick and indulgent.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can use a plant-based butter and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan; though the flavor profile will shift significantly.

A Weeknight Win From Our Kitchen

It makes my heart so full to see the family gathered around for a warm; home-cooked meal that didn't take all evening to prepare. If you loved the bold flavors in this pan; you might also want to try our Thai Basil Beef Rolls; these fun Buffalo Chicken Bombs; or my personal favorite for a cozy night; the Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls.

Share your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Tag us @HannahCooking with #OnePanParmesanOrzoWithShrimp; we’re dying to see your version and hear about your homemade kitchen stories!

⭐️ Rate this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe and let us know what twists or ingredients you used!

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A close-up view of a savory seafood dish featuring creamy, yellow-hued orzo pasta. The pasta is topped with several golden-seared shrimp and garnished with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Save it For Later

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

A creamy one-pan meal featuring tender orzo and succulent shrimp in a garlic parmesan sauce. This dinner saves time and cleanup for busy families.
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Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 480kcal
Cost: $18

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet (For one-pan cooking)
  • 1 Wooden spoon (To stir orzo)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp - peeled and deveined
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth - or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese - grated
  • 3 cloves garlic - minched
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions 

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.
  • Remove shrimp from the pan and melt butter to toast the dry orzo with garlic.
  • Pour in the broth and oregano, then simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  • Stir in cream and parmesan until the sauce becomes thick and coats the pasta.
  • Return shrimp to the pan and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Notes

Sear the shrimp quickly to keep them tender; they finish cooking in the residual heat of the pasta. Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 420g | Calories: 480kcal (24%) | Carbohydrates: 42g (14%) | Protein: 32g (64%) | Fat: 22g (34%) | Saturated Fat: 12g (75%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 185mg (62%) | Sodium: 850mg (37%) | Potassium: 310mg (9%) | Fiber: 2g (8%) | Sugar: 3g (3%) | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 4mg (5%) | Calcium: 25mg (3%) | Iron: 15mg (83%)

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