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One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

Recipes Walay
If you love easy dinners, this One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe is perfect. It is creamy, rich, and full of flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 250 grams shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions
 

Prepare the Shrimp

  • Wash the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Add salt and pepper. Mix gently and set aside. This step keeps shrimp juicy and full of flavor.

Heat the Pan

  • Place a large pan on medium heat. Add olive oil and let it warm. Do not overheat the oil. It should shimmer slightly but not smoke.

Cook the Shrimp

  • Add shrimp to the hot pan in one layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side. They will turn pink quickly. Remove them and keep aside.

Sauté Garlic

  • In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic or it will taste bitter.

Toast the Orzo

  • Add the orzo to the pan. Stir it with garlic. Let it toast for 2 minutes. This gives a rich and nutty flavor to your dish.

Add Broth

  • Pour in chicken broth slowly. Stir well to mix everything. Let it come to a gentle boil. Then reduce heat and let it simmer.

Cook the Orzo

  • Cook for about 10 minutes. Stir often so it does not stick. The orzo will absorb the broth and become soft and creamy.

Add Cream

  • Pour in heavy cream and mix well. This makes the dish rich and smooth. Let it cook for 2 more minutes on low heat.

Add Cheese

  • Add grated Parmesan cheese slowly. Stir continuously until melted. The sauce will become creamy and thick.

Add Shrimp Back

  • Place the cooked shrimp back into the pan. Mix gently so they do not break. Let everything heat together for 2 minutes.

Finish the Dish

  • Add butter, lemon juice, and parsley. Stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Your dish is now ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for best flavor
  • Do not overcook shrimp or they become rubbery
  • Add spinach for extra nutrition
  • Use vegetable broth for a lighter taste
  • Add mushrooms for more texture
  • Try chili flakes for a spicy kick
  • Use half milk instead of cream for lighter sauce
Keyword One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe