Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this delightful recipe for One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp! This dish has become my secret weapon on busy weeknights when I want something quick, delicious, and filling. The first time I made it was during a spontaneous get-together with friends. I remember staring at a bag of shrimp in my freezer, wondering how I could whip up a meal that would impress without taking hours in the kitchen. And voila—this dish was born! Not only did it turn out beautifully, but my friends raved about the creamy Parmesan orzo, the vibrant colors of the spinach and tomatoes, and the perfectly cooked shrimp. It was a definite win!
What I love about this recipe is how everything cooks in just one pan! Yes, you heard me right; that means minimal cleanup, which is music to my ears. The fusion of flavors here is simply divine—garlic, cheese, and tender shrimp all come together to create a bite that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, the cherry tomatoes add a pop of freshness that brightens the whole dish. Let’s dive right into making this delicious meal!
What’s in One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?
– Orzo Pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it the perfect base for this dish. You can usually find it in the pasta aisle of your grocery store!
– Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth instead of water gives the orzo extra richness and flavor. I always opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
– Fresh Spinach: Packed with vitamins and minerals, spinach adds that vibrant green hue and a lovely texture. Plus, it wilts down nicely and meshes perfectly with the orzo.
– Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness are optional but highly recommended! They add a fresh contrast to the dish and a lovely pop of color.
– Shrimp: The star of the show! I prefer large shrimp because they give a satisfying bite. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
– Olive Oil: This is essential for sautéing the shrimp and adds a rich flavor to the dish. I like to use extra virgin olive oil for its robust taste.
– Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These seasonings bring depth and warmth to the shrimp. You can always adjust the amounts if you’re feeling particularly spicy!
– Red Pepper Flakes: A little spice never hurt anyone! This is where you can add a kick if you like heat—completely optional, of course.
– Salt and Pepper: Basic, but necessary! They enhance all the lovely flavors in this dish.
– Grated Parmesan Cheese: The creamy, cheesy finish that ties everything together! Use freshly grated if you can for the best flavor and texture.
– Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish, but it also gives a nice fresh taste that balances out the richness.
– Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens everything and adds a zesty punch!
Is One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Shrimp: Not only are they low in calories, but shrimp are also packed with protein and essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. It’s a great way to get your protein fix without feeling heavy.
Spinach: This leafy green is literally bursting with vitamins A and C, iron, and dietary fiber. It’s like a health boost right in your meal!
However, keep in mind that shrimp can be high in cholesterol, so if that’s a concern for you, it might be a good idea to moderate your portion sizes.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people. Perfect for a cozy dinner night or meal prepping for the week!
How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast it slightly for about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook the orzo for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Stir in the spinach and cherry tomatoes (if using) into the orzo. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
5. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side, if desired. Enjoy your One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp!
Delicious Variations and Tips
– Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or even a plant-based protein if you want to make it vegetarian!
– Throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a heartier dish.
– I like to use little bursts of fresh herbs like basil or thyme if I have them on hand. They can really elevate the flavor!
– Want to make it creamy? Stir in a bit of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche along with the Parmesan for an even richer dish.
I hope you give this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe a try! There’s something so rewarding about creating a delicious meal with just one pan and a handful of ingredients. Plus, I can definitely promise it will become a favorite in your household! Let me know how it turns out for you—I simply love hearing your cooking adventures. Happy cooking!
