This delicious one-pan dish features tender orzo and juicy shrimp, all cheesy and comforting thanks to Parmesan. It’s quick to make and cleans up in a snap!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape cooks quickly and is perfect for one-pan dishes. If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice for a different twist.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but you can use frozen ones if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw them properly. If you’re allergic to shellfish or want a vegetarian option, chickpeas can provide protein.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. If you’re out of fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too; just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Kale can be used as a substitute, albeit it needs a bit longer to wilt.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty and creamy taste. If you’re looking for a vegan option, nutritional yeast can give you a cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is another great cheese that works well if you’re okay with a stronger taste.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the dish, but you can skip it if looking for a lighter option or replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Make My Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Getting shrimp just right is crucial in this recipe. Overcooked shrimp can be tough and rubbery, so follow these tips:
- Start with well-seasoned shrimp to enhance flavor.
- Cook shrimp over medium heat, giving them 2-3 minutes per side. Watch closely—they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them from the pan as soon as they’re cooked to avoid overcooking while you prepare the orzo.
By keeping an eye on the shrimp and not crowding the pan, you’ll get perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Easy One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. 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. Make sure not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Add the Orzo:
Now, add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring well to coat it in the remaining oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute while stirring. This step adds extra flavor to the pasta.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Spinach:
When the orzo is almost done, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for just a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts.
6. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese along with the heavy cream (if you’re using it). Stir well to create a nice creamy sauce that coats the orzo.
7. Combine with Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Season and Serve:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optionally sprinkle in some red chili flakes for a bit of heat. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.
Dig in and enjoy your flavorful, easy one-pan Parmesan orzo with shrimp!
FAQ for Easy 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 thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even use rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or rice you choose, as they may require different cooking durations.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the pasta as it may dry out in the fridge.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could add chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and flavor.
