There’s something so comforting about a creamy, cheesy one-pan pasta that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is rich, flavorful, and brightened with lemon for the perfect balance.
It’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a one-pan meal—easy prep and cleanup.
Shrimp cooks quickly, making this a fast yet impressive dinner.
Creamy Parmesan sauce with lemon gives a perfect mix of richness and freshness.
Pairs beautifully with a salad, bread, or a glass of wine.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Orzo pasta cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors of the broth.
Shrimp adds lean protein and a seafood sweetness.
Parmesan cheese melts into a creamy, savory sauce.
Heavy cream gives the dish a velvety texture.
Lemon juice and zest brighten the flavor.
Fresh parsley adds freshness and color.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use large shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
Toast the orzo briefly for a nutty, deeper flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should just turn pink and opaque.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth melting.
How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Step 1 – Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute.
Step 2 – Toast orzo and deglaze
Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
If using white wine, pour it in and let it reduce slightly, scraping the pan.
Step 3 – Simmer with broth
Stir in chicken broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer 10–12 minutes until orzo is nearly cooked and most liquid absorbed.
Step 4 – Add shrimp
Stir in shrimp and cover again.
Cook 3–5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 5 – Make it creamy
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 6 – Finish the dish
Add lemon juice and parsley.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 7 – Serve
Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and parsley.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with garlic bread or a warm baguette.
Serve with a light green salad or roasted vegetables.
Enjoy with a crisp white wine for an elegant meal.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter version.
Add spinach or asparagus for extra veggies.
Make it spicier with more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Not recommended for freezing, as cream sauces can separate.
FAQs
Can I use another pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta like ditalini or couscous works, but cooking times may vary.
Can I skip the wine?
Absolutely, just replace it with more broth.
How do I know when shrimp is done?
It turns pink and opaque—overcooking makes it rubbery.
Can I make this ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.
Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
What’s the best Parmesan to use?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano melts best and has the most flavor.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor from lemon and fresh herbs.
It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
ne Pan Parmesan Orzo – Shrim
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Add onion and cook 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute.
- Stir in orzo and toast 1–2 minutes. Deglaze with white wine if using, let reduce.
- Add chicken broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes until orzo is nearly cooked.
- Stir in shrimp, cover, and cook 3–5 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and cream until smooth.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/one-pan-parmesan-orzo-shrimp/
Notes
- Use raw shrimp for the best flavor; pre-cooked shrimp may turn rubbery.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.