Parmesan Shrimp Orzo Pasta

This Parmesan Shrimp Orzo Pasta is a one-pan seafood pasta that combines tender orzo with juicy, seared shrimp in a light Parmesan sauce. I seasoned and pan-fried the shrimp until golden, then tossed with perfectly cooked orzo pasta that soaks up all the rich, garlicky, cheesy flavors. The final touch of freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, while the Parmesan provides a creamy finish. This dish is elegant, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even a casual dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Parmesan Shrimp Orzo Pasta because it’s simple, fast, and full of flavor. The combination of shrimp and creamy cheesy sauce makes every bite of this orzo comforting and satisfying. It’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is easy, and the dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a meal to impress guests. The balance of light seafood with hearty pasta makes it a perfect recipe to add to your rotation.

Parmesan Shrimp Orzo Pasta

A quick and flavorful one-pan dish featuring orzo pasta and perfectly seared shrimp tossed in a light Parmesan sauce, finished with fresh parsley.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Orzo Pasta
• 1 tablespoons + 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 pound Large Shrimp peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 3 Garlic Cloves minced
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh Lemon Juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Parsley Leaves

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
• Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
• Add cooked orzo, Parmesan, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the butter melts and everything is creamy and well combined.
• Return shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to coat. Cook 1–2 minutes until heated through.
• Top with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy with extra Parmesan if desired.

Video

Recipe Tips

For best results, cook the shrimp quickly over medium-high heat so they get a nice sear without becoming rubbery.  Also toast the orzo in a bit of butter before adding liquid to give the pasta a nutty depth of flavor.

Keyword creamy shrimp pasta, orzo pasta, parmesan shrimp orzo pasta, shrimp pasta

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