Ina Garten’s Shrimp Risotto is a creamy and luxurious dish that combines tender shrimp with perfectly cooked Arborio rice. Flavored with white wine, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, this risotto is a comforting yet elegant meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

What is Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto?

Shrimp Risotto is a classic Italian-inspired dish made by cooking Arborio rice slowly with broth until it becomes creamy, then adding tender shrimp and flavorful seasonings. Ina Garten’s recipe simplifies the process without compromising the rich taste and creamy texture.

Other Popular Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto

Rich and Creamy: Perfectly cooked risotto with a luxurious texture.
Elegant yet Simple: A dish that’s impressive but easy to prepare.
Full of Flavor: Enhanced by white wine, Parmesan, and shrimp.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different herbs or vegetables.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto

Shrimp – 1 pound, peeled and deveined
Arborio rice – 1 ½ cups
Chicken or seafood stock – 5-6 cups, warmed
Dry white wine – ½ cup
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons
Yellow onion – 1 small, finely chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup, freshly grated
Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of spice)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto

Prepare the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper, then sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes to toast the grains lightly.
Pour in the white wine and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, stirring constantly.

Gradually add the Stock

Add 1 ladleful (about ½ cup) of warmed stock to the rice, stirring frequently until the liquid is almost absorbed.
Continue adding stock one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still slightly al dente, and the mixture is creamy.

Add the Shrimp and Cheese

Stir the cooked shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest into the risotto.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto?

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy risotto.
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
White Wine: A glass of the same wine used in the recipe pairs beautifully.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto

Use Warm Stock: Keeping the stock warm ensures even cooking and maintains the creamy texture.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook just until pink to keep them tender and juicy.
Stir Constantly: Stirring helps release the starch from the rice, creating a creamy consistency.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
Serve Immediately: Risotto is best served fresh and hot for optimal texture and flavor.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto

Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
Use Different Proteins: Replace shrimp with scallops, chicken, or crab meat.
Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
Herb Variations: Use basil, dill, or thyme instead of parsley for a unique twist.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Shrimp Risotto

Refrigerate leftovers: Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat Gently: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen the risotto.
Freeze: Not recommended, as risotto can lose its creamy texture when thawed.

Nutrition Value

Calories: ~350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fats: 12g
Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for Shrimp Risotto?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well for shrimp risotto. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and retain their texture.

How Do You Keep Risotto Creamy?

To keep risotto creamy, stir frequently while cooking and add warm stock gradually. The constant stirring helps release starch from the Arborio rice, creating the creamy texture risotto is known for.

Can Shrimp Risotto Be Made Ahead of Time?

Shrimp risotto is best served fresh, but you can partially prepare it by cooking the risotto halfway through and refrigerating it. When ready to serve, reheat with stock and finish cooking the rice. Cook the shrimp fresh and mix them in just before serving.

What Is the Best Wine for Shrimp Risotto?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best for shrimp risotto. These wines enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Shrimp Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that’s as elegant as it is delicious. With perfectly cooked shrimp and flavorful, creamy rice, this recipe is ideal for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen!

More Ina Garten Recipes