Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a deliciously creamy dish that beautifully combines tender shrimp with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Each bite provides a warm embrace, enriched with the nutty taste of freshly grated parmesan, a splash of zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic. You’ll love the way the flavors meld together, creating a quick yet impressive main course that’s perfect for any occasion. This meal is not just about satisfying a hunger pang, but also capturing the essence of comfort food at its finest.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

I remember the first time I decided to make Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. It was a spontaneous weeknight craving, and I found myself wandering through my kitchen, eager to whip something up that felt special without being too complicated. The end result exceeded my expectations. Not only did it impress my family, but the ease of preparation made it a staple in our dinner rotation. Believing you can create something extraordinary in your own kitchen is essential, and this recipe invites you to make it happen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, dinner is ready in under an hour.
Irresistible Flavor: It’s a delightful fusion of garlic, lemon, and savory cheese, making each bite a flavorful experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of shrimp and parsley against creamy orzo create an impressive dish.
Flexible Serving: This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or even meal prep lunches.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for those looking to make it gluten-free by substituting with gluten-free orzo.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup orzo pasta: This tiny, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs sauces beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Use extra virgin for a rich flavor; you can substitute with butter for added creaminess.
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or frozen shrimp; both work well, just ensure the frozen ones are thawed.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: This aromatic ingredient adds depth and a lovely fragrance as it cooks.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little heat—feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
1/2 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio): The acidity helps lift the flavors; you can substitute with more broth if you prefer no alcohol.
1 cup chicken broth: For added flavor; low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness.
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: This creates a creamy, rich sauce; avoid pre-grated for better texture.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness; you can omit it for a lighter meal.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon): Brightens the dish and balances out the richness.
1 lemon, lemon zest: This enhances the citrus flavor throughout the dish.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.

How to Make Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cook the orzo: Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside. This small step really sets the foundation for a creamy dish.

Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of large shrimp with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. This quick cooking method seals the flavor and moisture in the shrimp.

Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic and, if you like a bit of heat, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. You’ll know it’s time to move on when your kitchen smells heavenly.

Deglaze with wine: Carefully pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This step lifts all the delicious bits stuck on the pan, infusing your sauce with flavor.

Combine with broth: Now, stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This will give your dish a lovely, layered taste. Once boiling, add the cooked orzo, 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and the zest of 1 lemon. Stir it all together until the butter melts and the mixture appears creamy.

Add the shrimp back in: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to combine everything. Heat it all through for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring every piece of shrimp is perfectly warmed. The dish comes together beautifully, creating an inviting plate full of vibrant flavors.

Garnish and serve: Top your dish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley before serving. This final touch not only adds brightness but also elevates the look, making it a feast for the eyes as well.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely and place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, freezing is a good option. Transfer the orzo and shrimp mixture to a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water for moisture. Just be aware that the texture might slightly change after freezing, so you might want to add a bit more cheese or lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Use a digital meat thermometer to check shrimp doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 120°F.
Remember not to overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
For an added flavor boost, try marinating the shrimp in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
If your dish feels too thick after refrigerating, simply stir in a little hot water or broth to loosen it up when reheating.

As you create this delicious dish, remember that the joy lies in the journey! The combination of creamy, cheesy orzo and succulent shrimp makes every forkful a delight, and it can easily transition from a weeknight dinner to a dinner party star. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional vegetables or herbs that you love. Enjoy this easy, flavorful meal for yourself and share the love with others too!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. This helps maintain their texture and ensures even cooking.

What can I substitute if I don’t have white wine?

If white wine is not available or you’d prefer to skip it, simply double the amount of chicken broth instead. This will still give you a flavorful base for your sauce without any wine.

Can I make Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp ahead of time?

You can certainly prepare the orzo and shrimp ahead of time. Cook everything until the final step where you combine the mixture, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and finish cooking before serving. It’s a great way to save time during busy weekdays.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy in the dish?

Cook the orzo until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. If you plan on serving leftovers, it’s a good idea to undercook the orzo by a minute or so, so it doesn’t get too soft when reheated later.

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Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

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Author: Peter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dishes
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful dish packed with flavor and simplicity. With just a few key ingredients like tender shrimp, creamy orzo, and a splash of lemon, this dish makes for a quick dinner that’s sure to impress. Perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, homemade meal!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil divided
1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
1/2 cup dry white wine sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
1 lemon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

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Instructions

Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Then add the cooked orzo, parmesan cheese, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For a little extra kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes if desired.
Using a fresh lemon will enhance the flavor profile, bringing brightness to the dish.
Pair with a simple green salad to balance the meal.