Effortless Elegance: Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Risotto Recipe

Shrimp scampi risotto? Sounds fancy, right? Well, get ready to be amazed because this seemingly sophisticated dish can be whipped up with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. This recipe combines the creamy comfort of risotto with the bright, garlicky flavors of shrimp scampi, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. Forget standing over a hot stove, stirring endlessly. The Instant Pot does most of the work, leaving you with more time to enjoy this delicious and impressive meal.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or anytime you crave a restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant price tag. It’s also surprisingly versatile – you can easily adapt it to your liking by adding different vegetables or cheeses. So, grab your Instant Pot, and let’s get cooking!

## Why Instant Pot Risotto is a Game Changer

Traditionally, risotto requires constant stirring as you gradually add hot broth to the rice. This continuous attention is what creates that signature creamy texture. However, the Instant Pot simplifies the process significantly. By cooking the rice under pressure, the Instant Pot forces the rice to absorb the broth more quickly and evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked risotto with minimal stirring required. This makes it a weeknight-friendly option, eliminating the need for constant monitoring.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

* **Arborio Rice:** This is the key to a creamy risotto. Arborio rice is a short-grain Italian rice that is high in starch. As it cooks, it releases its starch, creating the creamy texture that is characteristic of risotto. Do NOT substitute with other types of rice.
* **Shrimp:** We recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
* **Chicken Broth:** This is the cooking liquid for the risotto. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
* **White Wine:** A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, adds acidity and flavor to the risotto. If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth and a tablespoon of lemon juice.
* **Butter:** Butter adds richness and flavor to the risotto. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
* **Olive Oil:** Olive oil is used to sauté the garlic and shallots. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
* **Garlic:** Garlic is a key ingredient in shrimp scampi. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Mince it finely.
* **Shallots:** Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor than onions. They add a subtle depth of flavor to the risotto. Mince them finely.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the risotto. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
* **Lemon Juice:** Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the risotto, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the risotto. Adjust the amount to your liking.
* **Fresh Parsley:** Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the risotto. Chop it finely.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the risotto to taste with salt and pepper.

**Detailed Ingredient List:**

* 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons butter, divided
* 2 shallots, finely minced
* 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
* 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
* 1/2 cup dry white wine
* 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Wooden spoon or spatula

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part – cooking! Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Risotto every time.

**Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp**

* If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This will help them brown better. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**

* Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the Instant Pot. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
* Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 3: Toast the Rice**

* Add the Arborio rice to the Instant Pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted. This step helps to release the starch in the rice and contributes to the creamy texture of the risotto.

**Step 4: Deglaze with Wine**

* Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the wine has mostly evaporated. This step adds flavor and acidity to the risotto.

**Step 5: Add Broth and Pressure Cook**

* Pour in the chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
* Cancel the “Sauté” function. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position.
* Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 5 minutes on high pressure.

**Step 6: Natural Pressure Release**

* Once the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully opening the pressure release valve.

**Step 7: Stir in the Finishing Touches**

* Carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot. The risotto should be creamy and slightly soupy. If it seems too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
* Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Stir until the butter and cheese are melted and the risotto is creamy.

**Step 8: Cook the Shrimp**

* Select the “Sauté” function again. Add the seasoned shrimp to the Instant Pot and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.

**Step 9: Garnish and Serve**

* Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Serve the Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Risotto immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

## Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Risotto

* **Use Arborio rice:** As mentioned earlier, Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture of risotto. Do not substitute with other types of rice.
* **Don’t skip the toasting step:** Toasting the rice helps to release its starch and contributes to the creamy texture of the risotto.
* **Use warm broth:** Using warm broth helps to maintain the cooking temperature and promotes even cooking.
* **Don’t overcook the shrimp:** Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They are done when they are pink and opaque.
* **Adjust the seasonings to your liking:** Taste the risotto and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
* **For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth:** Homemade chicken broth has a deeper and more complex flavor than store-bought broth.
* **If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth and a tablespoon of lemon juice.**
* **Feel free to add other vegetables to the risotto.** Some good options include asparagus, peas, mushrooms, and spinach. Add the vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking, so they don’t become overcooked.

## Variations and Additions

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment and customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* **Vegetable Risotto:** Omit the shrimp and add your favorite vegetables, such as asparagus, peas, mushrooms, or spinach. Sauté the vegetables with the shallots and garlic, or add them during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Mushroom Risotto:** Add sliced mushrooms to the Instant Pot along with the shallots and garlic. Use mushroom broth instead of chicken broth for a more intense mushroom flavor.
* **Chicken Risotto:** Use diced cooked chicken instead of shrimp. Add the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.
* **Spicy Risotto:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
* **Lemon Herb Risotto:** Add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to the risotto during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Add a splash of cream:** For an even richer and creamier risotto, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyere. Add the cheese during the last few minutes of cooking, along with the Parmesan cheese.
* **Lobster Risotto:** Replace the shrimp with cooked lobster meat for a truly decadent dish. Add the lobster during the last few minutes of cooking.

## Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Risotto is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

* **A simple green salad:** The freshness of a green salad will balance out the richness of the risotto.
* **Roasted vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are all great options.
* **Garlic bread:** Garlic bread is a classic pairing for pasta dishes, and it goes well with risotto too.
* **A glass of white wine:** A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will complement the flavors of the risotto.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

While risotto is best served immediately, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking.

* **Chop the vegetables:** You can chop the shallots, garlic, and parsley ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
* **Grate the cheese:** You can grate the Parmesan cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
* **Thaw the shrimp:** If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

## Storage Instructions

Leftover Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the risotto and microwave until heated through. You may need to stir it occasionally to prevent it from drying out.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 450-550 per serving (depending on portion size and specific ingredients)
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams

*Please note that this is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.*

## Conclusion

Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Risotto is a delicious and impressive dish that is surprisingly easy to make. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour. So, give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills! Enjoy!