Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

This Easy, Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of arborio rice with fresh flavors from lemon and asparagus. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal brings gourmet dining to your table in just 25 minutes. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this risotto stands out for its comforting texture and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot allows you to prepare this delicious meal in just 25 minutes.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan cheese and broth creates a rich, creamy texture that makes every bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this risotto with your favorite vegetables or proteins, like chicken or mushrooms.
• Healthy Options: Packed with vegetables like spinach and asparagus, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and easier cleanup!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This appliance significantly reduces cooking time while enhancing flavor through pressure cooking.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy board makes chopping ingredients safe and efficient.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for even cooking.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

This Easy, Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is made with lemon, asparagus, and Parmesan and is a quick pressure cooker recipe perfect for weeknight meals. This cheesy, creamy dish uses arborio rice and you can mix up the ingredients and add chicken, mushrooms, peas, or whatever you prefer!

For the Risotto Base:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onions (I used white onions)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white grape juice (I recommend white grape juice.)
• 3 1/2 cups broth (Seafood, chicken, or vegetable broth.)

For the Flavor:

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
• 1 pound raw shrimp (Peeled and deveined)
• Old Bay Seasoning (See notes for how to make your own seasoning.)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 7 oz asparagus (Chopped into small pieces. See notes.)
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (Optional for flavor.)

How to Make Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Turn the Instant Pot on to the sauté function.
1. Add the olive oil to the pot with the onions and garlic.
2. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Toast Rice

Add the butter to the pot and allow it to melt.
1. Add the arborio rice to the pot.
2. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the rice is well-coated in butter.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the white grape juice and broth.
1. Stir until all rice grains are coated evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Place the lid on top and seal it properly.
1. Manually adjust the timer to Manual > High-Pressure Cooking > set for 8 minutes.

Step 5: Season Shrimp

While the risotto cooks, season your shrimp with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Release Pressure

When cooking is complete, perform a quick release of steam from the pot.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Switch back to sauté function on your Instant Pot.
1. Add seasoned shrimp, parmesan reggiano cheese, spinach, and chopped asparagus.
2. Stir gently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Step 8: Finish Cooking

Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until shrimp turns pink and translucent while cheese melts perfectly.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

Drizzle fresh lemon juice throughout for added flavor.
1. Taste repeatedly as you adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Old Bay as desired.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Allow cooling slightly before serving this delightful dish! Enjoy your creamy risotto filled with vibrant flavors!

How to Serve Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Serving Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto can elevate your dining experience. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adding freshly chopped parsley gives a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: A few fresh basil leaves can add a fragrant herbal note.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the risotto.
• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing create a delightful contrast.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top adds protein and makes the meal more filling.
• Seared Scallops: For a touch of elegance, serve with seared scallops for an upscale twist.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Stirring: Ensure you stir the rice well after adding broth to prevent sticking.
• Bold Timing: Follow the cooking time closely; overcooking can lead to mushy risotto.
• Bold Seasoning: Adjust seasoning at the end for optimal flavor balance; taste before serving!
• Bold Cheese Addition: Add Parmesan gradually for creaminess without clumping.
• Bold Vegetable Choice: Customize with seasonal vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Bold Resting Time: Let the risotto sit briefly after cooking to enhance flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Complement your Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with delicious side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover risotto sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients while enhancing flavors.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar offer a refreshing bite.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a healthy alternative and adds variety.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli balances the richness of the risotto while adding fiber.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate after the creamy dish, making it a nice contrast.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil brings freshness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, several common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold Ingredient Preparation: Neglecting to properly prepare your ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Always chop vegetables and measure your broth and rice beforehand.
• Bold Overcooking the Rice: Cooking the arborio rice too long can turn it mushy. Stick to the recommended 8 minutes of high-pressure cooking for perfect texture.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your dish adequately can result in bland risotto. Don’t forget to season both the shrimp and the overall dish with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
• Bold Ignoring Release Methods: Improperly releasing pressure can affect the final texture. Always use quick release as instructed when cooking risotto for best results.
• Bold Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can compromise flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables and quality broth for a vibrant dish.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Transfer to freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place risotto in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Place risotto in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat over low flame in a saucepan, stirring regularly. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish made quickly using an Instant Pot. It combines arborio rice with flavorful ingredients like shrimp, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or mushrooms or substitute the shrimp with chicken or turkey according to your taste preference.

How do I prevent my risotto from being too sticky?

To avoid sticky risotto, ensure you stir less than traditional methods and follow the cooking times precisely. Allowing steam release promptly also helps maintain texture.

What type of broth is best for this recipe?

Using chicken or vegetable broth will provide a rich flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully. Choose a low-sodium option if you’re watching salt intake.

Conclusion

This Easy Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables. Give it a try on busy weeknights for a quick yet satisfying meal!

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