This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a creamy, savory, and citrusy seafood dinner that comes together effortlessly in under 45 minutes. With juicy shrimp nestled in a bed of cheesy orzo cooked in broth, white wine, garlic, and herbs, this dish is comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. I love how everything simmers in one pan—making it rich in flavor and light on cleanup.

One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I always reach for this recipe when I want something impressive but easy. The one-pan method keeps things simple, and the flavors are deeply satisfying—from the briny shrimp to the creamy Parmesan sauce. I like how the lemon and parsley keep the dish fresh and bright, while the garlic and wine give it a depth that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orzo pasta
shrimp, peeled and deveined
chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
dry white wine (optional)
yellow onion, diced
garlic cloves, minced
Parmesan cheese, grated
heavy cream
butter
olive oil
lemon (juice and zest)
fresh parsley, chopped
red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and black pepper

Directions

I start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Then I sauté the onion until soft before adding garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for aroma and a touch of heat.
Next, I stir in the orzo and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes. If I’m using wine, I pour it in now and let it simmer briefly to add richness.
Then I pour in the chicken broth along with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. I let the orzo cook covered on low heat until it’s nearly done and most of the liquid is absorbed.
I add the shrimp, nestling them into the orzo, cover the pan again, and cook for another few minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Off the heat, I stir in the Parmesan and heavy cream to create a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
I finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed. I serve it hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add frozen peas or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for more veggies.
For a dairy-free version, I replace the cream with coconut milk and the cheese with a vegan Parmesan alternative.
If I don’t have shrimp, I substitute with diced chicken breast or even scallops.
To spice it up, I add cayenne or more red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it thickened in the fridge. I avoid overcooking it during reheating to keep the shrimp tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp, but I make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them brown and cook evenly.

I don’t have white wine, can I still make this recipe?

Definitely. I simply replace the wine with more chicken broth. I sometimes add a bit of lemon juice earlier in the cooking process to make up for the acidity the wine would add.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Orzo works best for the texture, but I’ve tried small pasta shapes like ditalini or even broken spaghetti. I just make sure to adjust the cooking time and watch the liquid levels.

Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?

Yes. I substitute the butter with olive oil, use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream, and swap the Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. For vegan, I skip the shrimp or use a plant-based alternative.

How long can I store leftovers?

I keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a little broth to maintain the creamy texture and make sure not to overcook the shrimp.

Conclusion

This One Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a lifesaver on busy nights. I love how it combines creamy, cheesy comfort with bright, fresh flavors—all in one skillet. It’s endlessly adaptable, crowd-pleasing, and easy enough to make again and again. Whether I’m cooking for my family or just myself, this is one dish I return to over and over.