Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

This Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a delightful dish that effortlessly brings together creamy arborio rice, fresh asparagus, and savory flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delicious meal in just 25 minutes. The standout combination of lemon and Parmesan elevates the flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time and quick cooking in the Instant Pot, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Creamy Texture: The use of arborio rice ensures a rich, creamy consistency that’s pleasing to the palate.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize your risotto by adding chicken, mushrooms, peas, or any favorite veggies.
• Fresh Flavors: The addition of lemon juice and fresh vegetables like asparagus adds brightness and nutrition to your dish.
• Family-Friendly: This meal is sure to please both kids and adults with its comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This gadget speeds up cooking time significantly and ensures even cooking for perfect risotto every time.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables like onions and asparagus before cooking.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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 or white grape juice.)
– 3 1/2 cups broth (Seafood, chicken, or vegetable broth.)
– 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
– 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. Add the olive oil to the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Butter and Rice

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

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids

Add the white grape juice and broth to the pot. Stir until all rice grains are coated evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Place the lid on top of the Instant Pot and seal it. Manually adjust the timer by selecting Manual > High Pressure Cooking > set for 8 minutes cook time.

Step 5: Season Shrimp

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

Step 6: Quick Release

When cooking is complete, do a quick release of steam from your Instant Pot.

Step 7: Add Remaining Ingredients

Switch back to sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Add in seasoned shrimp, parmesan reggiano cheese, spinach, and chopped asparagus. Stir gently to prevent sticking at the bottom.

Step 8: Cook Until Done

Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until shrimp turns pink and translucent while ensuring cheese melts completely. Asparagus should soften slightly while spinach wilts down.

Step 9: Final Touches

Drizzle throughout with fresh lemon juice before tasting. Adjust seasonings as needed—add more salt, pepper, or Old Bay according to preference.

Step 10: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving this delightful dish warm!

How to Serve Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Serving Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is an opportunity to showcase its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Pair it with complementary sides and garnishes to enhance the dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil – Chopped fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and color. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for a fresh touch.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken – Slice grilled chicken breasts to serve on top or alongside the risotto for added protein.
• Lamb Chops – Juicy lamb chops can complement the risotto’s richness while adding a delightful flavor contrast.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides freshness that balances the creaminess of the risotto.
• Caesar Salad – The crispy romaine and savory dressing pair well with the creamy texture of the risotto.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up risotto while adding extra flavor.
• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of a crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

To achieve the best results when making Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Arborio Rice – This rice variety is essential for achieving that creamy texture. Do not substitute with regular rice.
• Sauté Onions and Garlic Thoroughly – Cooking these ingredients until they are fragrant enhances the overall flavor of your risotto.
• Stir Frequently After Cooking – Gently stirring after adding shrimp and vegetables helps to incorporate flavors evenly and prevents sticking.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed – Depending on your desired consistency, you can add more broth if you prefer a soupier risotto.
• Taste Before Serving – Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust seasoning to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Let It Rest Briefly – Allowing the risotto to sit for a minute before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Side dishes can elevate your meal, complementing the rich flavors of Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings out natural sweetness and adds texture.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese provides a healthy contrast to the creamy risotto.
4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer.
5. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative while still being satisfying.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and a crisp texture that complements the softness of risotto.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Starting without sautéing the onions and garlic can result in a lack of flavor. Always sauté these ingredients first to build a rich base.
• Not Using Arborio Rice: Using regular rice instead of arborio rice will lead to a different texture. Stick with arborio for that creamy risotto consistency.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Adding shrimp too early can make it rubbery. Wait until the risotto is almost done before adding the shrimp for perfectly cooked results.
• Neglecting to Season: Failing to season at different stages can leave your dish bland. Season the shrimp and taste throughout cooking to ensure great flavor.
• Ignoring Broth Temperature: Adding cold broth can slow down cooking time. Use warm or hot broth for a quicker and more efficient cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the risotto to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Freeze in portions in airtight freezer bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months; label with date for freshness.

Reheating Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place risotto in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place risotto in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, adding liquid as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a creamy, flavorful dish made with arborio rice, shrimp, and vegetables like asparagus, all cooked quickly under pressure.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Absolutely! You can add chicken, mushrooms, peas, or other vegetables according to your preference for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make my risotto creamier?

For extra creaminess, consider stirring in more butter or cheese after cooking. This will enhance the overall texture of your risotto.

What type of broth should I use?

You can use seafood, chicken, or vegetable broth based on your taste preferences. Each option will give your risotto a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable. You can mix in your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try for a deliciously creamy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!

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