When it comes to comforting, flavorful meals, there’s something truly special about Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. This delightful dish is all about creamy orzo pasta perfectly embraced by succulent shrimp, tossed together with fresh lemon and savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a tasty symphony in a bowl that’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table, whether you’re preparing a cozy meal just for yourself or entertaining loved ones.

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 first encountered a similar recipe at a family gathering and was instantly smitten with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. The combination of tender shrimp, pasta, and zesty lemon felt like a warm hug on a plate. Now, preparing my own version brings a smile to my face every single time I make it. This dish not only ticks the boxes for a quick and easy weeknight meal, but it also makes a wonderful impression for dinner parties. Trust me, it’s a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with the tang of lemon and the richness of Parmesan, complemented by savory shrimp.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it as pretty as it is delicious.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a main course or with a light salad for a complete meal.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets with gluten-free pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup orzo pasta: This small pasta shape cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for sautéing the shrimp and adding flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for rich taste.
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw if using frozen.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the shrimp and enhancing overall flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant layers of taste; using fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat that complements the dish but can be omitted for a milder version.
1/2 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio): This adds depth and acidity; you can substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
1 cup chicken broth: Bases the sauce and keeps it moist and flavorful. Use low-sodium broth for more control over salt levels.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: It melts beautifully into the orzo, enriching the dish.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness; it’s best to use unsalted to adjust the seasoning.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon): Brightens the flavors beautifully; freshly squeezed is best.
Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a fragrant citrus flavor that enhances the dish.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of color and freshness at the end.

How to Make Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Cook the orzo: Prepare the orzo pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain and set aside while you focus on the shrimp and sauce.

Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper and place them in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep them warm.

Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to brown it.

Add the wine: Carefully pour in the 1/2 cup of dry white wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate slightly.

Create the sauce: Stir in the 1 cup of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the cooked orzo, 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of butter, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the zest of 1 lemon. Stir everything together until the butter melts and the mixture becomes creamy and delicious.

Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through, ensuring the shrimp is well incorporated into the creamy orzo dish.

Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for that vibrant touch. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp, let it cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but it will still be delicious!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery; they’re done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
For even more flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest when serving.
If you don’t have dry white wine, using extra chicken broth provides great flavor without alcohol.
Fresh herbs brighten the dish, so don’t skip the parsley and feel free to experiment with basil or chives for variations.
Leftovers make for fantastic lunches; just remember to keep moisture elusive to avoid mushiness.

There’s a world of flavor in every bite of this dish. Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not only quick and easy to make but also inviting enough to impress guests. The next time you have a craving for something creamy and delightful, or need to whip up a dinner that feels special without the fuss, give this recipe a try. You might find it quickly becomes one of your favorites too!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can place them in a bowl of cold water until they are defrosted, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Can I substitute orzo with another type of pasta?

Yes, if orzo isn’t available, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even traditional-sized pasta. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly!

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can easily use gluten-free orzo or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the chicken broth, are certified gluten-free as well.

What if I want to add some vegetables?

Adding spinach or cherry tomatoes works wonderfully in this dish. Simply toss them in after sautéing the garlic, allowing them to wilt and cook slightly before continuing with the recipe.