Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

This Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a delightful dish that combines the creaminess of arborio rice with fresh flavors of lemon and asparagus. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this quick pressure cooker recipe offers a comforting meal in just 25 minutes. With its cheesy texture and versatility, you can easily customize it by adding chicken, mushrooms, or peas. Discover how to make this creamy risotto that will impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot speeds up cooking time, letting you enjoy a homemade meal in just 25 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh lemon, asparagus, and Parmesan create a deliciously creamy dish.
• Versatile Base: Customize with your favorite proteins such as chicken or veggies like mushrooms and peas.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one pot!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. These tools will make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stirring spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-functional appliance allows you to cook the risotto quickly while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
• Measuring Cups: Precise measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this risotto.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.

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 (chicken or vegetable broth)

For Flavoring

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
• Old Bay Seasoning (see notes for how to make your own seasoning)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Fresh Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 7 oz asparagus (chopped into small pieces)
• 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. Add the olive oil along with the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant.

Step 2: Add Butter and Rice

Add the unsalted butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in the arborio rice. Cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes until each grain is well coated in butter.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the white grape juice along with the broth. Stir thoroughly until all rice grains are evenly covered with liquid.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid on your Instant Pot. Set it to Manual > High-Pressure Cooking > adjust cook time to 8 minutes.

Step 5: Season Shrimp

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

Step 6: Quick Release Steam

When cooking is complete, use quick release to let out steam before opening the pot carefully.

Step 7: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Switch back to sauté mode. Add seasoned shrimp, grated parmesan reggiano cheese, fresh spinach, and chopped asparagus into the pot. Stir gently to prevent any sticking at the bottom.

Step 8: Finish Cooking

Cook for about 3-4 minutes until shrimp turns pink and opaque while cheese melts, creating a creamy consistency as asparagus softens and spinach wilts.

Step 9: Adjust Flavoring

Drizzle fresh lemon juice throughout for an extra burst of flavor. Taste-test often! Adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or Old Bay if needed.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Allow cooling slightly before serving this delightful risotto packed with flavor!

Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto as a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Serving Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto can elevate your dining experience. This dish is rich and creamy, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.

Accompany with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, offering a crunchy texture that balances the creamy risotto.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious risotto sauce.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds an extra flavor dimension and makes the meal more filling.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Creating the perfect Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use High-Quality Broth: The flavor of your broth greatly affects the taste of the risotto, so choose a quality seafood or chicken broth.
• Don’t Rush the Sauté Step: Take your time sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; this builds a strong flavor base.
• Stir Gently: When mixing in shrimp and vegetables, stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer creamier risotto, add a little extra broth or water as it cooks to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the risotto to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help enhance its flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a satisfying dish that pairs well with various sides. Consider these options to complement your meal perfectly.

1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide nutrition and color, adding freshness to your plate.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts offer a nutty flavor that complements the creamy risotto beautifully.
3. Caprese Skewers: Skewers with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil bring brightness and balance to the dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon vinaigrette adds texture and keeps the meal healthy.
5. Grilled Chicken Breasts: Juicy grilled chicken can add protein while remaining light enough not to overwhelm the risotto’s flavors.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes pair wonderfully, making for an indulgent side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, it’s crucial to avoid common errors that can affect the dish’s texture and flavor. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing onions and garlic can lead to bland risotto. Always take the time to cook these ingredients first for a flavor boost.
• Overcooking the Rice: Cooking arborio rice for too long will make it mushy. Stick to the recommended 8 minutes under pressure to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
• Not Using Enough Broth: Using insufficient broth can result in dry risotto. Ensure you measure correctly for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season during cooking may leave your risotto flat. Be generous with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning for optimal flavor.
• Adding Shrimp Too Early: If you add shrimp at the beginning, they may overcook. Wait until after the risotto is done before adding them in.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Omitting fresh vegetables like spinach and asparagus can reduce nutritional value. Include these for added flavor and color.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover risotto in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place risotto in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of broth or water, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan, add a little broth or water over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of seafood instead of shrimp in my Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Yes! You can easily substitute shrimp with scallops or fish. Adjust cooking times accordingly if using different seafood.

How do I make my Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto creamier?

To enhance creaminess, stir in additional Parmesan cheese or a dollop of cream just before serving.

What other vegetables can I add to Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Feel free to include peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives for a delicious dairy-free version.

Can I use brown rice instead of arborio rice?

While brown rice is healthier, it requires longer cooking time and may not achieve the same creamy texture as arborio rice does in risotto.

Conclusion

This Easy Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this simple recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

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