Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Cauliflower Risotto
Indulge in this luscious Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Cauliflower Risotto, a healthy twist on the classic creamy risotto. Made with high-protein medium shrimp, nutrient-packed cauliflower rice, and enriched with creamy cream cheese and aged Parmesan, this dish delivers incredible flavor with every bite. Infused with aromatic garlic, savory shallots, and a hint of freshly grated nutmeg, it’s finished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering elegance and comfort in one satisfying bowl.
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Unsalted Butter
5 tablespoons (divided)
Medium Shrimp
1 lb (peeled and deveined)
Frozen Cauliflower Rice
24 ounces (thawed)
Shallots
2 (diced)
Garlic Cloves
2 (chopped)
Chicken Broth
2 cups (divided)
Cream Cheese
4 ounces (softened)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 cup (freshly grated)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Freshly Grated Nutmeg
a pinch
Chopped Parsley
2 tablespoons (plus more for garnish)
Lemon Wedge
for serving
Instructions
1
Begin by heating a small heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely.
2
Introduce the medium shrimp to the pot, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate, cover with aluminum foil to keep warm, and set aside.
3
In the same pot, add an additional 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. Add the diced shallots and chopped garlic, seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté until the shallots are translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Next, add the thawed cauliflower rice to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, increasing the heat to medium-high. Allow the mixture to simmer until nearly all the broth has been absorbed by the cauliflower rice. Continue to add ½ cup of broth at a time, letting it absorb before adding the next, until all 2 cups are fully incorporated.
6
Once the rice is adequately cooked, lower the heat to medium and stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg and mix until well combined. Cook for an additional minute until everything is creamy and smooth.
7
Introduce the cooked shrimp back into the pot, along with the chopped parsley. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the risotto to cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and well incorporated.
8
Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Nutrition Information
8.75g
Fat
15g
Carbs
16.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Cauliflower Risotto?
It is a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional risotto that uses cauliflower rice, medium shrimp, cream cheese, and Parmesan for a creamy, high-protein meal.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it is specifically designed as a low-carb recipe, containing only 15g of carbohydrates per serving.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What size shrimp should I use for this risotto?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of medium shrimp that have been peeled and deveined.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, you can use 24 ounces of frozen cauliflower rice, but ensure it is thawed before cooking.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
The shrimp should be cooked for approximately 5-7 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
Why is cream cheese used in this recipe?
Cream cheese is used to provide the creamy, luscious texture that is traditional in risotto without using high-starch rice.
How much protein does this shrimp risotto provide?
This dish is high in protein, providing 16.25g per serving.
What can I substitute for shallots?
If you do not have shallots, you can use finely diced yellow onion or the white parts of green onions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is gluten-free, provided your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
How much butter is required for the recipe?
A total of 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter is used, divided into 2 tablespoons for the shrimp and 3 tablespoons for the vegetables.
What type of cheese is used in this risotto?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese.
Why should I add the chicken broth gradually?
Adding broth gradually allows the cauliflower rice to absorb the liquid properly, ensuring a better consistency.
What does the nutmeg add to the dish?
A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg adds a subtle aromatic depth that complements the creamy cheese sauce.
How should I serve the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Cauliflower Risotto?
Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh chopped garlic provides the best flavor, you can substitute it with garlic powder if necessary.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe does not specify a fixed number of servings, but the nutritional data is calculated per serving based on the provided ingredient amounts.
What is the fat content of this meal?
The dish contains 8.75g of fat per serving.
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cauliflower rice is done?
The cauliflower rice is ready once it has absorbed most of the 2 cups of chicken broth and reached a tender but not mushy texture.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but add them only at the very end to heat through to avoid overcooking and a rubbery texture.
What type of pot is recommended?
A small, heavy-bottomed pot is recommended for even heat distribution while melting butter and simmering the broth.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
While the exact amount isn't listed in the summary, cauliflower is naturally high in fiber.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you would need to substitute the butter, cream cheese, and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
How long does the entire cooking process take?
The active cooking time is approximately 25-30 minutes.
Do I need to peel the shrimp myself?
The recipe specifies using shrimp that are already peeled and deveined.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat cauliflower risotto?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the mixture has thickened too much.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses fresh chopped parsley for both flavor and garnish.
What if I only have salted butter?
You can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the amount of additional salt you add to the dish to taste.