Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Risotto is a luxurious and comforting dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy arborio rice, and bright lemony flavors. Each bite offers a perfect balance of richness, acidity, and savory garlic notes. The risotto’s creamy texture envelops the shrimp, making it feel indulgent yet fresh.

I love this recipe because it turns a seemingly complicated dish into a manageable, home-cooked meal without sacrificing elegance. The garlic and lemon elevate the shrimp, while the slow-cooked rice absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a perfectly creamy and satisfying dish. It’s ideal for dinner parties, date nights, or any occasion when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances creamy indulgence with bright, fresh flavors. The lemon adds vibrancy that complements the garlicky shrimp, while the risotto itself is rich, silky, and comforting. Every bite feels decadent, yet the dish is light enough to enjoy without feeling heavy.

It’s also versatile, allowing for adjustments in the amount of garlic, lemon, or cheese based on personal taste. The method is straightforward once you understand the risotto technique, making it a satisfying process for home cooks.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates simple ingredients into an elegant meal. The combination of creamy rice, succulent shrimp, and zesty lemon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special dinner.

The risotto technique also makes it an excellent introduction to mastering creamy, restaurant-quality rice dishes. Its versatility allows for customization with herbs, vegetables, or alternative proteins, making it a truly adaptable recipe.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup arborio rice
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet. Sauté shrimp until pink and opaque, 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. In a separate large skillet or pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add arborio rice and cook, stirring, for 1–2 minutes until slightly translucent.
4. Deglaze with white wine and cook until absorbed.
5. Gradually add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until liquid is absorbed before adding more. Continue until rice is creamy and tender, about 18–20 minutes.
6. Stir in cooked shrimp, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a separate large skillet or pan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter.
2. Add finely chopped onions and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add arborio rice to the aromatics and stir for 1–2 minutes until rice is lightly toasted and translucent around the edges.
2. Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed.

Step 4: Gradually Add Broth

1. Add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously.
2. Wait until liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding the next ladle.
3. Continue until rice is creamy and tender, about 18–20 minutes.

Step 5: Finish the Risotto

1. Stir in cooked shrimp, lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
3. Remove from heat and let sit 1–2 minutes for flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Optional: Drizzle with extra olive oil or additional Parmesan for richness.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve immediately for best texture and creaminess.
• Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Complement with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Can be plated individually or family-style for dinner gatherings.

Recipe Tips

• Stir continuously to release starch from the rice and create creaminess.
• Use warm broth to maintain consistent cooking temperature.
• Do not overcook shrimp; add at the end to prevent rubbery texture.
• Adjust lemon juice to taste for brightness.
• For extra richness, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of cream before serving.

Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Add asparagus, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Risotto: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh thyme, basil, or dill for an aromatic twist.
• Creamy Seafood: Add scallops or crab meat alongside shrimp for a seafood medley.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Risotto is best served fresh; freezing may alter texture. If needed, freeze cooked shrimp separately and thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Ladle for adding broth gradually
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes. Omit shrimp and use vegetable broth; add mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead.

Can I use lemon zest only?
Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity; for less tang, use zest alone or adjust to taste.

Can I prepare risotto ahead of time?
Risotto is best fresh, but you can cook the rice partially, cool, and finish with shrimp and cheese when ready to serve.

What type of rice should I use?
Arborio rice is preferred for its creamy texture, but Carnaroli or Vialone Nano can be used as alternatives.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Risotto is a luxurious, flavorful, and comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal. With tender shrimp, creamy arborio rice, and the bright zing of lemon, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests. Simple yet sophisticated, this risotto is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, savory, and aromatic dishes with a seafood twist.