Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate but comes together in a breeze, this Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp perfectly seared and nestled into a creamy, cheesy orzo infused with bright lemon notes and fresh herbs. It’s an elegant yet simple meal that’s full of flavor, texture, and that irresistible comfort factor that makes dinner exciting every time. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet night in or impressing friends, this dish has that special something you just can’t resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe lies not just in its taste but also its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the orzo’s lovely bite to the zesty lemon highlighting the shrimp’s sweetness. Keep these essentials on hand for an effortlessly delicious meal.

• 1 cup orzo pasta: The tiny rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Adds richness and helps give the shrimp a perfect sear.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein offering tender, succulent bites.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives that aromatic base that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little kick if you love a touch of heat.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine: Helps to build depth and a slight tang to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the orzo moist and carries all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings creamy, salty goodness that pulls the dish together.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds silkiness to the sauce for that smooth finish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon): Offers brightness that balances the richness.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Amplifies the lemon flavor with fragrant oils.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves: Freshens up the dish with a burst of color and herbaceous notes.

How to Make Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by preparing your orzo according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This little pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, so rinsing with cold water after draining is not recommended—let those starches stay to create a creamy finish later on.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your shrimp generously with salt and pepper, then sauté for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous pink and are opaque. Remove them from the pan and set them aside—keeping them juicy and flawless.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re going for some heat. Let those aromas bloom for about 1 to 2 minutes—you want that fragrant garlic without burning it.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the dry white wine carefully and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. This step lifts all the caramelized bits off the skillet’s bottom and infuses the dish with a mellow tanginess. After that, stir in the chicken broth and bring everything up to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Add your cooked orzo into the skillet along with the freshly grated Parmesan, butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture coats the orzo in a luscious, creamy sauce. The lemon’s vibrant flavor will cut through the richness perfectly here.

Step 6: Finish with Shrimp

Gently return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together just until heated through. This keeps the shrimp tender and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t overcook them at this stage, or they’ll turn rubbery.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the finished dish to add fresh color and a touch of herbal brightness. Now you’re ready to dive into this wonderfully satisfying Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe!

How to Serve Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of green but also a fresh, slightly peppery note that contrasts the creamy sauce. If you want to jazz it up, a few lemon wedges on the side allow your guests to add an extra citrus burst just how they like it.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini makes the meal more well-rounded and colorful. For a heartier feast, warm crusty bread is perfect to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, why not serve the Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe in individual ramekins or shallow bowls? Garnish each portion with a sprig of parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It makes every serving feel special and restaurant-worthy without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp tastes just as delightful the next day. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get a chance to meld together even more overnight.

Freezing

Because of the creamy texture and delicate shrimp, freezing this dish is not ideal as the sauce may separate and shrimp can lose their tender texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated leftovers.

Reheating

When you’re ready to eat leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to overcook shrimp and toughen the orzo.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking so they sear nicely and don’t release excess water into the dish.

What can I substitute for the dry white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, a splash of extra chicken broth or a bit of white grape juice with a teaspoon of vinegar works well to keep that tangy balance in the sauce.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat pasta and contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn at many grocery stores if you need a gluten-free version of this Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the shrimp and boost the flavor with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Toss in additional herbs for depth.

How do I keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp quickly on medium-high heat until just opaque and pink, then add them back to the dish only at the very end to warm through gently. Overcooking is the main culprit for rubbery shrimp.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe is one of those rare meals that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly. It’s creamy, tangy, and bursting with flavor—a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect anytime you want to treat yourself or your loved ones. Give it a try tonight, and I promise you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.

Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Recipe

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4.1 from 26 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A flavorful and creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe that combines tender shrimp, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese for a quick and satisfying meal, ready in just 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

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Orzo and Base

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine

Shrimp and Seasonings

• 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)

Fats and Cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Citrus and Herbs

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

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Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo: Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the shrimp.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add White Wine: Carefully pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
6. Combine Broth and Orzo: Stir in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add cooked orzo, Parmesan cheese, and butter, stirring until the butter melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
7. Add Lemon Elements: Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for brightness and freshness.
8. Reintroduce Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to combine all ingredients. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add color and a fresh herbal note.

Notes

• Use dry white wine for optimal flavor; you can substitute chicken broth if avoiding alcohol.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
• Ensure shrimp is cooked just until opaque to avoid toughness.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting texture.
• This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian