Hello friends, Chef André here!
When you want a dinner that feels luxurious yet effortless, this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is exactly the kind of recipe that saves the day.
Tender shrimp, lemony brightness, and ultra-creamy Parmesan-coated orzo come together in one comforting skillet—ready in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of cozy and fresh, making it ideal for busy weeknights or those moments when you want to impress without stress.
What I love most about this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is how approachable it is. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a silky texture that feels restaurant-worthy. One bite and you’ll understand why this dish disappears fast.
Why This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp Works So Well
This recipe is a winner because it’s:
- Ready in 30 minutes
- One-pan friendly
- Comforting yet light
- Perfect for family dinners
- Easy to customize
Simple cooking, big flavor payoff.
Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Chicken broth for deeper flavor or veggie broth for lighter
- Greek yogurt + splash of milk for a lighter creaminess
- Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan
- Spinach or peas for extra greens
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Cook the Shrimp
Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through.
Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
2. Build the Orzo Base
Lower heat to medium.
Add butter and garlic to the same skillet.
Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute.
3. Simmer Until Creamy
Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Finish the Dish
Return shrimp to the skillet and gently fold into the orzo.
Cook for 1–2 minutes, just to warm shrimp through.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve warm.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Customize your Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp easily:
🌶 Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes or chili oil.
🥬 Veggie Boost
Stir in spinach or asparagus at the end.
🧄 Garlic Lover’s
Add an extra clove of garlic.
🍋 Extra Lemon
Finish with additional lemon juice for brightness.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Orzo
- Stir often to keep orzo creamy
- Don’t overcook shrimp—add them back at the end
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melt
- Add broth gradually if needed for silkier texture
Little details, flawless results.
What to Serve with Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Warm flatbread
It’s a complete, satisfying meal on its own.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 2 days
- Reheat: Gently on stovetop with splash of broth
- Freezer: Not recommended (cream texture changes)
FAQ – Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp
Is orzo rice or pasta?
It’s pasta shaped like rice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Best enjoyed fresh, but reheats gently.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Creamy, mild, and comforting.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—thaw completely and pat dry first.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
(Values vary based on cream and cheese used.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Creamy Skillet Comfort 🍤🧀
This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is proof that weeknight dinners can be fast, comforting, and downright impressive. Creamy, lemony, and packed with tender shrimp, it’s a recipe you’ll keep in heavy rotation.
If you try it, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tell me what veggies or twists you added!
For safe handling and storage of seafood, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
👉 https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳