Garlic Butter Shrimp with Butternut Squash Risotto

Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Butternut Squash Risotto is a luxurious and comforting meal that perfectly combines succulent, garlicky shrimp with creamy, sweet, and velvety risotto. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery garlic shrimp, creating a balanced dish that’s both elegant and satisfying.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or date nights. The risotto is creamy without being heavy, and the shrimp add protein and a touch of indulgence. The warm colors of golden butternut squash and shrimp make the plate visually appealing, while the aromatic garlic butter and fresh herbs make it irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. The creamy risotto contrasts perfectly with the tender, garlicky shrimp. Each bite feels indulgent yet comforting, and the natural sweetness of butternut squash adds depth without overwhelming the flavors.

It’s also versatile and impressive. You can make it for a family dinner or serve it at a small gathering, and everyone will be amazed. The combination of textures, flavors, and aromas makes this a dish I always return to when I want something special yet achievable at home.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Rich, creamy, and comforting: Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
• Balanced flavors: Sweet squash, savory garlic shrimp, and creamy risotto make each bite exciting.
• Impressive presentation: Vibrant orange squash and golden shrimp make it visually stunning.
• Versatile: Can be paired with other proteins or vegetables if desired.
• Crowd-pleaser: Elegant enough for guests, comforting enough for a weeknight dinner.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Italian / Contemporary American

Ingredients

For the Butternut Squash Risotto:

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Directions

For the Butternut Squash Risotto:

1. Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
2. Cook squash: Add diced butternut squash and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Toast rice: Add arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes until slightly translucent around the edges.
4. Add broth gradually: Pour in ½ cup warm broth at a time, stirring frequently. Allow rice to absorb liquid before adding more. Repeat until rice is creamy and al dente (about 20 minutes).
5. Finish risotto: Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

1. Melt butter: In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Cook garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook shrimp: Add shrimp, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Add lemon: Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp and stir to coat.

Combine and Serve:

1. Plate risotto on serving dishes.
2. Top with garlic butter shrimp.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Dice butternut squash and chop onion and garlic.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
3. Cook squash until slightly tender.
4. Toast arborio rice for 2 minutes.
5. Gradually add warm broth, stirring continuously until creamy.
6. Stir in butter and Parmesan, season to taste.
7. Melt butter for shrimp, sauté garlic briefly.
8. Cook shrimp until pink, add paprika, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.
9. Plate risotto, top with shrimp, and garnish.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while risotto is creamy and shrimp are hot.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Stir constantly: Ensures risotto becomes creamy without sticking.
• Use warm broth: Helps rice cook evenly and achieve a creamy texture.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook just until pink to avoid rubbery texture.
• Optional heat: Add chili flakes to shrimp for a spicy kick.
• Prep vegetables in advance: Speeds up cooking time.

Variations

1. Vegetarian option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
2. Spicy shrimp: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the garlic butter.
3. Creamy variation: Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the risotto for extra richness.
4. Herb infusion: Stir in fresh thyme or sage into risotto while cooking.
5. Cheese swap: Use Gruyère or Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked risotto and shrimp separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Shrimp can be frozen for 1 month; risotto is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen with slightly less liquid.
• Reheating: Reheat risotto slowly with a splash of broth to restore creaminess; reheat shrimp gently to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet for risotto
• Small skillet for shrimp
• Wooden spoon for stirring risotto
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make the risotto ahead of time?
A: Yes, but add extra broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

Q3: Can I use pumpkin instead of butternut squash?
A: Yes, peeled pumpkin works well and adds a slightly different sweetness.

Q4: Can I cook shrimp with the risotto in one pan?
A: It’s possible, but cooking shrimp separately ensures they don’t overcook.

Q5: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just ensure your broth is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Butternut Squash Risotto is a comforting, elegant, and flavor-packed dish that combines creamy, sweet, and savory elements in perfect harmony. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy, restaurant-quality meal at home. With tender shrimp, creamy risotto, and the natural sweetness of roasted squash, every bite is a balance of textures and flavors that’s impossible to resist.