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Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp

Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp in Just 20 Minutes

This creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Salt customize according to needs
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika or smoked paprika for depth
For the Cooking Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil butter can also be used
  • 2 tablespoons Salted Butter can use unsalted but adjust salt
  • 1 small Shallot, chopped or onion if preferred
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced fresh is best
For the Orzo Dish
  • 1 cup Orzo can use gluten-free if needed
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes omit for milder dish
  • 1 teaspoon Za’atar optional
  • 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth or vegetable broth
For the Finishing Touches
  • 2 cups Spinach or kale if preferred
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh is ideal
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan use freshly grated for best melting
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta omit for dairy-free
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts optional topping

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, paprika, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss to coat, then set aside for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, drizzle remaining olive oil and add butter. Once melted, add the shrimp and sear for 1 minute on each side.
  3. Lower heat and add chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until shallots are translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  4. Stir in the orzo, oregano, and red pepper flakes, coating well. Toast orzo for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden brown.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until orzo is tender.
  6. Once tender, add spinach and stir until wilted. Squeeze in lemon juice and mix in Parmesan and feta.
  7. Return the shrimp, fold everything together, and heat through for 1 minute. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and pine nuts.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customize spices and ingredients based on your preferences and availability. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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