If you’re craving a comforting, creamy dish that’s packed with flavor yet surprisingly simple to make, this Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp Risotto (Oven Method) is your new go-to recipe. Combining tender shrimp with the rich essence of roasted garlic and the luxurious texture of a classic risotto, this oven-baked version saves you from the usual stirring frenzy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this risotto is a delightful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This recipe stands out because it merges the deep, mellow flavors of roasted garlic with succulent shrimp, all enveloped in a buttery, cheesy risotto that’s cooked effortlessly in the oven. Unlike traditional stovetop risottos that require constant attention, the oven method frees you up to focus on other meal prep or simply relax. Roasting the garlic ahead of time adds a sweet, caramelized depth that blends beautifully with the shrimp and creamy Parmesan. The result is a perfectly cooked, silky risotto with layers of flavor that will impress any dinner guest.

What Goes Into Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp Risotto (Oven Method)

1 cup arborio rice – The star ingredient for creamy risotto texture.
4 cups chicken broth – Provides savory depth; use a good-quality broth for best results.
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Adds a delicate seafood flavor and protein.
5 cloves garlic, minced – Roasted to bring out sweetness and mellow pungency.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – To enrich the risotto with sharp, salty creaminess.
1/4 cup unsalted butter – For a luscious, velvety finish.
1 onion, finely chopped – Builds the flavor base with subtle sweetness.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing and adding richness.
Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance all the flavors.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, herbal garnish.

Before You Start: Equipment

Oven-safe Dutch oven or deep baking dish – Essential for cooking the risotto evenly in the oven.
Mixing bowl – To combine ingredients before baking.
Knife and cutting board – For prepping shrimp, garlic, and onion.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing the risotto before baking.

The Method for Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp Risotto (Oven Method)

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the garlic cloves, still in their skins, on a small piece of foil, drizzle them with a teaspoon of olive oil, and wrap tightly. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes until soft and golden. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze out the roasted garlic and mince finely.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). In your Dutch oven or oven-safe dish, heat the olive oil and half the butter over medium heat on the stovetop. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced roasted garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Add the arborio rice to the onion and garlic mixture. Stir well to coat each grain with the oil and butter, letting it toast lightly for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Bake

Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and stir everything together. Cover the Dutch oven or baking dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil, then transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

While the risotto bakes, melt the remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Finish the Risotto

Remove the risotto from the oven and carefully stir in the cooked shrimp and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a bright, herbal note.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the creamy roasted garlic butter shrimp risotto into bowls and garnish with extra parsley if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Better-for-You Options

Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content.
Swap unsalted butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative to reduce saturated fat.
Increase the amount of fresh parsley or add other herbs like basil or chives for added nutrients and flavor.
Incorporate finely chopped vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to boost fiber and vitamins.

Errors to Dodge

Avoid skipping the roasting of garlic; it brings a sweetness and depth that raw garlic can’t achieve.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; it should be just opaque and tender to keep the texture perfect.
Make sure to cover the risotto tightly while baking to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
Don’t forget to stir in the cheese and butter last to achieve that signature creamy finish.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This roasted garlic butter shrimp risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to save leftovers, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the risotto and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess. For best texture, it’s recommended to freeze the risotto without shrimp and add freshly cooked shrimp when serving.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the risotto’s texture.

Is it necessary to roast the garlic?

Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and adds a sweet, nutty flavor that elevates this risotto. While you can use raw garlic, the taste will be more pungent and less rich.

What if I don’t have arborio rice?

Arborio rice is ideal for risotto due to its high starch content, which creates creaminess. If unavailable, you can try other short-grain rice varieties, but the texture may differ slightly.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken broth with a flavorful vegetable broth and substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Serve with These

Creamy Roasted Garlic Chicken Penne – For those who love garlic-infused creamy pasta dishes.
Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli Farfalle – A perfect garlic butter pasta companion.
Simple arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette – adds a refreshing contrast.
Oven-roasted asparagus or green beans – for a crisp vegetable side.

That’s a Wrap

This Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp Risotto (Oven Method) is a comforting, elegant meal that impresses without the fuss. The oven method transforms the traditional risotto process into a hands-off experience while maintaining all the creamy, savory goodness you expect. With the sweetness of roasted garlic and the delicate bite of shrimp, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, it’s a delightful recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich, buttery, garlicky goodness—no constant stirring required!

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