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.
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.
