Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly simple yet utterly decadent dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the Italian coast! Imagine perfectly cooked, tender orzo pasta, each grain coated in a creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce, studded with succulent, juicy shrimp. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s both comforting and elegant.

Orzo, resembling rice but actually pasta, has a rich history in Italian cuisine, often used in soups, salads, and as a delightful side dish. Its versatility shines in this recipe, where it perfectly complements the richness of the Parmesan and the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. While not steeped in ancient tradition, this particular combination of Parmesan, orzo, and shrimp has gained immense popularity for its ease of preparation and impressive flavor profile. It’s a modern classic that’s quickly becoming a weeknight staple in households everywhere.

What makes this Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet. The Parmesan cheese melts into a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of orzo, while the shrimp adds a burst of freshness and protein. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. I know you’ll love it!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparing the Shrimp:

Okay, let’s start with the shrimp. I like to use large shrimp for this recipe because they hold their shape well and are nice and plump. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined. Nobody wants to bite into a shrimp with a vein still in it!

1. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. I usually use about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, but feel free to adjust to your liking. A little extra pepper never hurt anyone!
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the shrimp will steam instead of sear. If you need to, cook the shrimp in batches.
3. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery. Nobody wants rubbery shrimp!
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. We’ll add them back in later.

Cooking the Orzo:

Now, let’s get that orzo cooking. This is where the magic happens, and the orzo soaks up all that delicious chicken broth and becomes creamy and dreamy.

1. In the same skillet (don’t wash it yet – all those shrimp bits are flavor gold!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will become bitter.
3. If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is called deglazing, and it adds a ton of flavor. If you’re not using wine, just skip this step.
4. Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for a minute or two, stirring constantly. This helps to develop the flavor of the orzo.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Creating the Creamy Sauce:

This is where we take the orzo from good to amazing! The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich and decadent sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.

1. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
2. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice. The lemon adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese.
4. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you already added some salt and pepper to the shrimp, so taste the orzo before adding more.

Bringing it All Together:

Almost there! Now we just need to add the shrimp back in and finish it off with some fresh parsley.

1. Add the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine.
2. Cook for a minute or two, or until the shrimp is heated through.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.

Serving:

Time to eat! I like to serve this dish immediately, while it’s still hot and creamy. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge are always a nice touch.

1. Serve the Parmesan orzo with shrimp in bowls.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge.
3. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to make this recipe your own:

• Use different seafood: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute scallops, crab, or lobster.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables to the orzo while it’s cooking. Asparagus, peas, and spinach are all great options.
• Make it spicy: If you like a little more heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use vegetable broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth instead.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor and a chewy texture to the dish.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian. You can add some roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free orzo pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving: This brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust the amount of cream and cheese to your liking: If you prefer a lighter sauce, use less cream and cheese.
• Make it ahead of time: You can make the orzo ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a little extra broth or water when reheating to keep it from drying out.

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

• Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
• Protein: 30-40 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams

Enjoy this delicious and easy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The creamy, cheesy orzo, perfectly cooked shrimp, and bright lemon zest create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s comforting, elegant, and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it the perfect dish for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Why is this Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp a must-try? It’s all about the balance. The delicate orzo pasta soaks up the rich Parmesan sauce beautifully, while the shrimp adds a delightful protein boost and a touch of sweetness. The lemon zest cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing zing that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Looking for ways to customize your Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* Vegetable Power: Add some sautéed asparagus, spinach, or peas for extra nutrients and color. Roasted cherry tomatoes would also be a fantastic addition.
* Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a subtle kick to the dish.
* Herb Heaven: Fresh basil, parsley, or chives would be lovely garnishes, adding a burst of freshness.
* Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would complement the flavors of this dish perfectly.
* Shrimp Alternatives: Not a fan of shrimp? You can easily substitute chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* Make it a Bake: For a heartier meal, transfer the orzo and shrimp to a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan cheese, and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
* Lemon Boost: For an extra lemony flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a starting point for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version of this delicious dish. I encourage you to make it your own!

I’m confident that you’ll love this Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking!

I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Please, don’t hesitate to share your photos, comments, and variations in the comments section below. Let me know what you thought of the recipe and any tweaks you made to personalize it. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Bon appétit!

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