This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a creamy and tasty dish that’s super easy to make. You cook everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
The juicy shrimp mixed with the cheesy orzo makes for a cozy meal. I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley for that extra pop of color. It’s comfort food at its best! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for this dish. If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute it with any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Just be sure to adjust your cooking times accordingly.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for their meaty texture. For a budget-friendly option, you can use frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You could also swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different twist!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice touch, but feel free to use other greens like kale or Swiss chard. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you could also use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a rich flavor, but if you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can work as substitutes. For a creamier texture, you might add cream cheese or mascarpone instead of cheese.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be a little tricky as they can turn rubbery if overcooked. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat the olive oil on medium-high. Once hot, add seasoned shrimp.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking. Set them aside until you’re ready to add them back at the end!
Taking them out of the pan ensures they stay tender and juicy. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference!
How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo With Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, carefully remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. You want to be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it around to mix with the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Spinach and Tomatoes:
Now, stir in the chopped spinach and cherry tomatoes. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
5. Combine Everything:
Gently return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir well to combine. Let it sit for a minute to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
6. Season and Garnish:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful One Pan Parmesan Orzo With Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30-40 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Substitute Different Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are great alternatives to spinach and tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the vegetables you choose, adding ones that require longer cooking earlier in the process.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Comforting Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
