Creamy Seafood Rice Recipe

A Rich and Flavorful Seafood Delight

Creamy seafood rice is a comforting and indulgent dish, combining tender seafood with a velvety, flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a blend of shrimp, scallops, or other shellfish in a rich, creamy base. Whether served as a main course for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe will impress with its smooth texture and deep umami flavors.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy texture: The combination of cream, butter, and seafood stock makes for a decadent, velvety dish.
• Versatile seafood options: Use shrimp, scallops, mussels, or your favorite seafood mix.
• One-pan meal: Fewer dishes to wash while still creating a gourmet dish.
• Easily customizable: Adjust the creaminess, spice level, or ingredients to suit your preference.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups arborio or long-grain rice
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb scallops (or substitute with mussels or calamari)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter.
2. Sauté shrimp and scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Base

3. In the same pan, add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in the rice, toasting it for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

5. Deglaze the pan with white wine (if using) and let it simmer until mostly evaporated.
6. Gradually add seafood broth, stirring frequently, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid.
7. Once the broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

8. Return the cooked seafood to the pan, gently mixing it into the creamy rice. Simmer for 2 minutes.
9. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Variations

• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter.
• Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
• Extra umami: Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or miso for added depth.
• Cheesy option: Add extra Parmesan or even some Gruyère for a richer dish.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream and rice may separate when thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes! Just ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

What type of rice is best?

Arborio rice is ideal for a creamy texture, but long-grain rice works well too.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What can I serve with creamy seafood rice?

A light side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the base ahead, but add seafood just before serving to keep it tender.

How do I prevent overcooking the seafood?

Cook shrimp and scallops separately before adding them back at the end to avoid toughness.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy seafood flavors.

Can I use a seafood mix?

Absolutely! A combination of shrimp, mussels, squid, and fish adds variety.

How do I make it more like a risotto?

Add the broth gradually while stirring continuously to achieve a risotto-like consistency.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

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Conclusion

Creamy seafood rice is a luxurious yet simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Whether you prefer a mild, creamy version or one with a bit of spice, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Enjoy it fresh with a glass of white wine for the perfect dining experience.

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