Instant Pot Shrimp Paella

When I think of comfort food, Instant Pot Shrimp Paella always comes to mind. Growing up, my family would gather around the table, and the aroma of this delightful dish would fill the air, bringing everyone together. There’s something magical about how the flavors meld—the shrimp, rice, and spices create a tapestry of taste that’s simply unforgettable. I remember the first time I made paella in my Instant Pot; it was one of those moments where everything just clicked. It’s a wonderful dish that evokes memories and brings joy, making it perfect for any gathering or even a cozy night in.

Ingredient List for Instant Pot Shrimp Paella

Every ingredient in Instant Pot Shrimp Paella serves a purpose, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The key players include fresh shrimp for protein, long grain rice that absorbs all the rich flavors, and saffron, which lends an aromatic touch that’s hard to resist. Each ingredient works together to elevate this dish to a culinary delight.

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds richness to the dish.
• 1 medium onion: Diced small, it adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 3 to 4 cloves of garlic: Minced, it provides a zesty punch that pairs well with seafood.
• 1 ½ cups of chicken broth: The foundation of the cooking liquid that infuses flavor.
• 1 cup of long grain rice: A key component that absorbs the flavors and creates the dish’s base.
• 1 teaspoon of paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon of salt: Adjusts seasoning and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper: Provides a subtle heat that complements the dish.
• 1 small pinch of saffron threads: Imparts a unique flavor and beautiful color.
• ½ pound of fresh shrimp: Cleaned, peeled, and deveined, they are the star protein of the dish.
• ½ cup of peas: Fresh or frozen, they add a pop of color and sweetness.
• ½ cup of red bell pepper: Sliced thin, it brings crunch and a sweet flavor.
• 2 teaspoons of cilantro: Optional for garnishing, it adds freshness.
• Lemon or lime wedges: Optional for serving, they enhance the flavors with acidity.

Step by Step Instructions for Instant Pot Shrimp Paella

Making Instant Pot Shrimp Paella is a simple yet rewarding process! Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered with tips along the way!

1. To start, grab your Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. This is the perfect time to add the onion and garlic. Sauté them for about 2 minutes or until the onion is lightly browned. Stir nearly continuously to avoid burning.
2. Next, add the chicken broth, rice, paprika, salt, pepper, and saffron. Stir everything together well, ensuring nothing is stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial for preventing the dreaded “burn” notice!
3. Now it’s time to add the shrimp. Arrange them over the top of the rice mixture in an even layer. Do not stir or move them around—this helps to ensure they cook perfectly and don’t clump together.
4. Cancel the sauté function and select the pressure cooking button. Set it to cook on high for 6 minutes. Make sure the valve is in the sealed position. During this time, you can relax and enjoy the delightful aromas wafting from your Instant Pot.
5. After the 6 minutes are up, it’s time for a manual quick release. Carefully move the valve from the sealing to the venting position. Be cautious, as the steam will be incredibly hot! Use a kitchen towel or wear oven mitts for safety.
6. Once the pressure is released, open the lid and remove the shrimp, placing them in a large bowl. Set them aside for later.
7. Now, it’s time to add the peas and red bell pepper into the pot. Select the sauté function again and sauté for a couple of minutes until the bell peppers are crisp-tender. There’s no need to cancel the sauté mode for this; it’s all about layering flavors.
8. After cooking the vegetables, cancel the sauté mode and transfer everything back into the bowl with the shrimp. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
9. Finally, if you’d like, toss in the cilantro and spritz the dish with some lemon or lime juice just before serving. This brightens up the flavors beautifully and adds a fresh touch.
10. Serve your Instant Pot Shrimp Paella warm, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to make Instant Pot Shrimp Paella your own! Here are some tips to help you customize this dish:

• Vegetable Variations: You can add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a different flavor profile.
• Seafood Variations: Consider mixing in different seafood, such as scallops or mussels, for added variety.
• Spice Levels: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy some heat in your dishes.
• Herb Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great alternative for garnishing.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices!

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Shrimp Paella

• Serve it Warm: Enjoy your Instant Pot Shrimp Paella warm right out of the pot for the best flavors.
• Pair with a Salad: A light salad with citrus dressing complements the dish beautifully.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for gatherings or dinner parties, as it can easily serve multiple people.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the paella in an airtight container for up to 2 months for quick meals later.
• Enjoy During Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home.

FAQ

Conclusion

Instant Pot Shrimp Paella is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. With its vibrant flavors and quick cooking time, it makes for an ideal meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try it and share it with your loved ones. You’ll be amazed at how a simple dish can create such wonderful memories!

Instant Pot Shrimp Paella

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Shrimp Paella combines fresh shrimp and aromatic spices into a delicious one-pot meal. With vibrant flavors and an easy cooking method, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight for an unforgettable dining experience!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Spanish

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion diced small
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic finely minced
• 1.5 cups chicken broth low-salt varieties recommended
• 1 cup long grain rice washed well
• 1 teaspoon paprika or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
• 1 small pinch saffron threads or about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon saffron powder
• 0.5 pound fresh shrimp cleaned, peeled, deveined (about 20 medium shrimp)
• 0.5 cup peas frozen and thawed recommended
• 0.5 cup red bell pepper sliced thin
• 2 teaspoons cilantro finely minced; optional for garnishing
• Lemon or lime wedges optional for serving

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler
• Instant Pot

Method

 

1. To start, grab your Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. This is the perfect time to add the onion and garlic. Sauté them for about 2 minutes or until the onion is lightly browned. Stir nearly continuously to avoid burning.
2. Next, add the chicken broth, rice, paprika, salt, pepper, and saffron. Stir everything together well, ensuring nothing is stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial for preventing the dreaded “burn” notice!
3. Now it’s time to add the shrimp. Arrange them over the top of the rice mixture in an even layer. Do not stir or move them around—this helps to ensure they cook perfectly and don’t clump together.
4. Cancel the sauté function and select the pressure cooking button. Set it to cook on high for 6 minutes. Make sure the valve is in the sealed position. During this time, you can relax and enjoy the delightful aromas wafting from your Instant Pot.
5. After the 6 minutes are up, it’s time for a manual quick release. Carefully move the valve from the sealing to the venting position. Be cautious, as the steam will be incredibly hot! Use a kitchen towel or wear oven mitts for safety.
6. Once the pressure is released, open the lid and remove the shrimp, placing them in a large bowl. Set them aside for later.
7. Now, it’s time to add the peas and red bell pepper into the pot. Select the sauté function again and sauté for a couple of minutes until the bell peppers are crisp-tender. There’s no need to cancel the sauté mode for this; it’s all about layering flavors.
8. After cooking the vegetables, cancel the sauté mode and transfer everything back into the bowl with the shrimp. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
9. Finally, if you'd like, toss in the cilantro and spritz the dish with some lemon or lime juice just before serving. This brightens up the flavors beautifully and adds a fresh touch.
10. Serve your Instant Pot Shrimp Paella warm, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Notes

• Cooking Time: The cooking time in the Instant Pot is just 6 minutes, but don’t forget to account for the time it takes to come to pressure and the quick release!
• Layering Ingredients: Always layer the ingredients correctly in the Instant Pot. The shrimp should go on top of the rice mixture to ensure even cooking.
• Quality of Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially the shrimp, makes a notable difference in flavor. Always opt for high-quality seafood.
• Saffron Storage: If you have leftover saffron, store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its flavor and aroma.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!