One Pan Parmesan Orzo: A Creamy Delight for Dinner

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One Pan Parmesan Orzo has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights. This creamy dish features tender orzo pasta and succulent shrimp enveloped in a delicious garlic parmesan sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that saves time and cleanup for busy families. In just 25 minutes, you can serve a delightful dinner that everyone will love. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing dish!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Parmesan Orzo

This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner and comes with several benefits. First, it’s a one pot parmesan orzo meal, meaning minimal cleanup—a win for busy nights! Second, the creamy texture makes it a family-friendly one pan orzo recipe that kids adore. Third, it’s packed with protein from the shrimp, making it a healthy parmesan orzo recipe overall. Additionally, you can whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick parmesan orzo meal. You’ll also appreciate that it’s gluten-free, catering to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Lastly, the addition of fresh spinach or vegetables can elevate the nutritional profile while keeping it tasty. This dish truly embodies the essence of an easy one pan orzo!

One Pan Parmesan Orzo: A Creamy Delight for Dinner - One Pan Parmesan Orzo - main visual representation

Ingredients for One Pan Parmesan Orzo

Gather these items:

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make One Pan Parmesan Orzo Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 2: Remove shrimp from the pan and melt butter to toast the dry orzo with garlic.
Step 3: Pour in the broth and oregano, then simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in cream and parmesan until the sauce becomes thick and coats the pasta.
Step 5: Return shrimp to the pan and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Parmesan Orzo

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
Consider adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy.
This dish is best served fresh but can be reheated.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Parmesan Orzo

This creamy parmesan orzo dish can be served on its own or with a side salad. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. If you want to enhance your dish, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spice kick, making it an easy parmesan orzo side dish.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Parmesan Orzo

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, simply place it back in a skillet on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to rehydrate the orzo.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Parmesan Orzo

What is One Pan Parmesan Orzo?

One Pan Parmesan Orzo is a creamy dish made with orzo pasta, shrimp, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for busy families looking for a quick dinner.

Can I make One Pan Parmesan Orzo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the orzo and store it for a day in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently and add fresh shrimp before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Parmesan Orzo?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the shrimp and use the right amount of broth for a creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Variations of One Pan Parmesan Orzo You Can Try

For a spin on this dish, try adding spinach for a healthier take or substitute shrimp with chicken for a different protein. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Each variation maintains the essence of this simple parmesan orzo dinner.

For more delicious recipes, check out Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes or Creamy White Wine Mushroom Chicken. If you’re interested in more one-pot meals, you might enjoy One Pot Broccoli Cheese as well!