This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a tasty dish that cooks in just one pan! Creamy orzo, juicy shrimp, and a sprinkle of parmesan make for a wonderful meal that’s easy to clean up.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s ready in no time and super flavorful? I love serving it with a side of garlic bread—because carbs on carbs are a win! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives this dish a lovely texture. If you’re in need of a substitute, small pasta shapes like couscous, or even rice can work as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.
Shrimp: Using fresh shrimp is great, but frozen shrimp can be a good option as well. Just make sure to thaw them properly beforehand. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for wilting into the pasta. If unavailable, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. Other greens like kale or arugula can also work nicely.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds an amazing flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option can do the trick.
How Do You Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s all about timing. You want that sweet spot where they’re just cooked but not overdone. Here are some simple steps:
- Warm the oil in your pan before adding shrimp.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be pink and no longer translucent.
- Remove them from the pan promptly to avoid overcooking. It’s better to undercook slightly as they’ll continue to cook off the heat.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender, flavorful shrimp every time!
How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo With Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick and tasty dinner. In about 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish that’s ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Shrimp:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. While the oil warms up, season your shrimp with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
2. Sautéing Garlic:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. This little step adds a wonderful flavor to your dish!
3. Adding Orzo and Broth:
Now, add the orzo to the pan and stir it well to coat with the garlic and oil. Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. This will create a nice base for your orzo to cook.
4. Cooking the Orzo:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the orzo to cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Mixing in Spinach and Cheese:
Next, stir in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until the spinach has wilted and the dish becomes creamy. It should look and smell amazing!
6. Combining Shrimp and Final Touches:
Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything gently to combine. Taste your dish and add more salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about finding the perfect flavor for you!
7. Serving:
Serve your delicious one-pan meal hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose, as different shapes may require more or less time to cook through.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this orzo dish dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You might also try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness and flavor that mimics the creaminess without the dairy.
Can I Add Additional Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the spinach. Just make sure to sauté them in the pan before adding the garlic to soften them slightly, as they may require a bit longer to cook than spinach.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water when warming it up on the stove or in the microwave to help bring back the creamy texture.
