Go Back
- 1 cup orzo pasta - 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 4 cups vegetable or seafood broth - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup spinach, fresh - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) In this dish, each ingredient plays a vital role. The orzo pasta acts as the base, soaking up all the flavors. Fresh shrimp adds a sweet, briny note. Olive oil gives richness, while garlic and red pepper flakes add depth. For the broth, you can pick vegetable or seafood. Both work well, adding moisture and flavor. Cherry tomatoes burst with juiciness, pairing nicely with fresh spinach's earthiness. Finally, Parmesan cheese brings a nutty finish that ties everything together. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. They boost flavor and nutrition. When you gather these items, think about how they will blend together in the pan. Cooking is about balancing tastes and textures. Each bite should be a delight. With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a dish that shines. Initial Setup Gather all your ingredients. You will need orzo pasta, shrimp, olive oil, garlic, broth, cherry tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Measure out each item to make cooking smooth. Cooking Process Start by heating your skillet on medium heat. Add olive oil and let it warm up. This will help cook the garlic and give flavor. Sautéing the Garlic Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about one minute. You want the garlic fragrant but not burned. This step adds depth to the dish. Cooking the Orzo Next, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir it well to coat with the oil and garlic. Let it cook for two minutes. This light toasting brings out the nutty flavor in the orzo. Adding Shrimp and Vegetables Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil. After boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about ten minutes. The orzo will absorb most of the liquid. When it’s tender, add the shrimp and cherry tomatoes. Cover again and cook for three to four minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and be fully cooked. Mixing in Spinach and Cheese Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well so everything blends. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serving Suggestions Serve the dish warm. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This adds color and enhances the flavor. Enjoy your One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! Achieving the Perfect Flavor To make One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp truly shine, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic enhances the taste. Olive oil adds richness. Don't skip the red pepper flakes if you like heat. They give a nice kick that balances the creamy cheese. Stir well to mix the flavors as they cook. This creates a tasty base for the orzo. Preventing Overcooked Shrimp Shrimp cook fast. Keep an eye on them. Add them to the pan after the orzo is tender. Cook just until they turn pink. This usually takes 3 to 4 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can be tough. So, avoid cooking them too long. Alternatives for Broth If you don't have vegetable or seafood broth, use chicken broth. This still keeps the dish flavorful. You can also use water, but it may lack depth. Adding extra spices can help enhance the flavor if you use water. Dairy-Free Options For a dairy-free dish, skip the Parmesan cheese. Try nutritional yeast instead. It offers a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also use dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Skillet Recommendations A large skillet is key. I recommend a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup. A cast iron skillet works too and gives great heat. Ensure it is well-seasoned to prevent sticking. Essential Utensils You'll need a wooden spoon for stirring. A sharp knife for chopping garlic and tomatoes is important. Don’t forget measuring cups for the orzo and broth. These tools make cooking easier and more fun! {{image_2}} Substituting Shrimp You can easily swap shrimp for chicken or fish. Chicken breast works well; just cut it into small pieces. For fish, try salmon or tilapia. Both cook fast and add great flavor. If you use chicken, cook it first before adding the orzo. Adjust the cooking time according to the protein you choose. Vegetarian Versions You can make this dish vegetarian by removing shrimp. Replace it with hearty veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. These add texture and flavor while keeping the dish filling. You can also use tofu for added protein. Cook the veggies until tender before adding the orzo. Adding Herbs and Spices Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can elevate your dish. Add them just before serving for the best flavor. You can also sprinkle in some lemon zest for brightness. If you want a deeper flavor, try adding smoked paprika or Italian seasoning. Heat Level Adjustments If you like spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños. For a milder taste, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or leave them out. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce before serving for a kick. Plating Ideas Serve this dish in shallow bowls for a casual feel. Top with extra Parmesan and parsley for a pop of color. You can also layer the orzo and shrimp in a tall glass for a fun presentation. Complementary Side Dishes Pair your orzo with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. A light vinaigrette can brighten the meal. Roasted veggies also make a great side, adding flavor and nutrition to your plate. - Refrigeration Tips: Let the dish cool down before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for about 3 days. - Freezing Instructions: To freeze, put the cooled orzo in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date. - Microwave vs. Stovetop: You can reheat in the microwave for quick meals. If you prefer stovetop, use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help with moisture. - Maintaining Texture and Flavor: Stir often while reheating. This helps keep the orzo creamy and the shrimp tender. - How Long it Lasts in Fridge: Leftovers stay good in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the shrimp may start to spoil. - Signs of Spoilage: Check for off smells or a change in color. If it smells sour or looks slimy, it's best to toss it out. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp ahead of time. Cook the dish and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. What can I serve with One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp? This dish pairs well with a fresh salad. Try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve garlic bread on the side. It adds a nice crunch and flavor contrast. Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried garlic in this recipe. Use about half a teaspoon of dried garlic for each clove of fresh garlic. Keep in mind that dried garlic has a different flavor. So, adjust to your taste. What type of shrimp is best for this recipe? I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp. They cook well and stay juicy. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them first. Look for shrimp that is peeled and deveined for ease. Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe is not gluten-free. Orzo is made from wheat. However, you can substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta. Just cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free. Simply leave out the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy. This blog shares how to make a tasty dish with orzo and shrimp. We covered the key ingredients, like fresh shrimp and olive oil, and went through the cooking steps. You learned tips for great flavor and ingredient swaps. Finally, we discussed how to store your leftovers and answered common questions. Cooking can be fun and simple. Just follow these steps, and you’ll impress everyone with a delicious meal. Enjoy your cooking journey!

One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Get ready to impress with this Shrimp Delight: One-Pan Parmesan Orzo recipe! This easy dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy Parmesan, and vibrant veggies all in one skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal for guests, it’s ready in just 25 minutes.Click through now to elevate your dinner game!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

4 cups vegetable or seafood broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup spinach, fresh

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

    Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat with the oil and garlic mixture. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to toast slightly.

      Pour in the broth, bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.

        Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the shrimp and cherry tomatoes. Cover the skillet again and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

          Remove from heat and stir in the fresh spinach until just wilted. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4