Indulge your taste buds with the rich flavors of creamy shrimp and polenta dishes! In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine succulent shrimp with a comforting bowl of creamy polenta. From classic garlic butter and spicy Cajun to more adventurous options like smoky polenta cakes and roasted red pepper sauce, there’s something for every palate.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to delight. So go ahead, get creative with your shrimp and polenta, and discover new flavors to love!
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Polenta
Savor the rich flavors of succulent shrimp smothered in a savory garlic butter sauce, served atop creamy polenta. A match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Polenta:
– 1 cup polenta
– 3 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine polenta and water/broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
3. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in white wine (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve shrimp atop creamy polenta, drizzled with remaining butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Cheesy Polenta
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering combination of spicy Cajun shrimp and creamy cheesy polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Cook polenta according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Cook until pink and cooked through (2-3 minutes per side). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Serve shrimp over creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Shrimp over Parmesan Polenta
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and creamy polenta. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions, whisking in chicken broth and Parmesan cheese.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice to the skillet. Stir in parsley.
6. Serve cooked shrimp over warm polenta.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Grits-Style Polenta Bowls
Inspired by the Southern classic, these polenta bowls are a creative twist on traditional shrimp and grits. With its creamy texture and nutty flavor, polenta pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Bring water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta.
2. Reduce heat to low; cook for about 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
3. Stir in butter, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate skillet, sauté shrimp with olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve shrimp over polenta bowls and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Creamy Polenta with Shrimp and Mushroom Ragout
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the creamy richness of polenta with the savory goodness of shrimp and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta cornmeal.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until the polenta is creamy and smooth.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the polenta with the shrimp and mushroom ragout spooned over top.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Smoky Polenta Cakes
Succulent grilled shrimp paired with crispy smoky polenta cakes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring polenta and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
3. Stir in olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let cool slightly.
5. Cut polenta into 1-inch squares (cakes).
6. Brush shrimp with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve grilled shrimp atop smoky polenta cakes, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Shrimp over Soft Polenta
Experience the flavors of Italy with this light and refreshing seafood dish. Succulent shrimp are sautéed with sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic, served atop creamy soft polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup soft polenta
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes release their juices.
6. Serve the shrimp over the cooked polenta and spoon the tomato-basil mixture on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Creamy Polenta
A classic Italian-American combination of succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and creamy polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (2/3 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cooked polenta (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions or homemade recipe.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; season with salt and pepper. Sear until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir until creamy sauce forms.
6. Add cooked polenta to the skillet; stir until well combined with the sauce.
7. Serve shrimp on top of polenta mixture; garnish with parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Shrimp and Polenta Stacks
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy chipotle peppers, and creamy polenta. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add minced chipotle peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. To assemble, place cooked polenta on a plate, followed by a layer of shrimp mixture, then repeat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Chorizo Polenta Bake
Shrimp and Chorizo Polenta Bake: A hearty, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of polenta with the spicy kick of chorizo and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and salt.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Combine cooked polenta with chorizo mixture and stir in cheese.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Polenta with Shrimp and Spinach
This vibrant dish combines the creamy richness of polenta with the brininess of shrimp and the nutrients of spinach, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
3. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes or until softened.
4. Add shrimp; cook 2-3 minutes per side or until pink.
5. Stir in spinach leaves until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve polenta alongside the shrimp mixture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Polenta Casserole
This flavorful casserole combines the creamy texture of polenta with the sweetness of corn and the savory taste of shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic; cook until pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in corn kernels and cooked polenta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlicky Shrimp with Rosemary Polenta
This recipe combines the sweetness of garlic-infused shrimp with the earthiness of rosemary-scented polenta, creating a harmonious and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup polenta
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. Stir in chopped rosemary.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve shrimp on top of warm polenta.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Polenta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, creamy polenta, and a spicy kick from roasted red pepper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 roasted red bell peppers (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Cook polenta according to package instructions with 2 cups water and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. While polenta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red bell peppers, garlic, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Blend until smooth.
4. Serve cooked polenta topped with shrimp and spoon over roasted red pepper sauce.
Cooking Time:
– Polenta: 20-25 minutes
– Shrimp: 6-8 minutes
– Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: 5-7 minutes
Blackened Shrimp over Jalapeño Polenta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened shrimp with creamy jalapeño polenta, creating a spicy and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until blackened.
4. Stir in chopped jalapeños and blackening seasoning; cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked polenta with grated cheese and chopped cilantro.
6. Serve shrimp atop the polenta, garnished with remaining cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Polenta with Creamy Pesto Drizzle
A creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of polenta with the succulence of shrimp, finished with a tangy and herby pesto drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup creamy pesto (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring polenta and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Stir polenta to prevent sticking. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. To make pesto drizzle, stir creamy pesto with a little water (about 1 tablespoon) to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve shrimp atop polenta, drizzled with pesto. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cheesy Polenta
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this indulgent yet easy-to-make recipe, where succulent shrimp meet crispy bacon and creamy polenta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta cornmeal. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
3. Meanwhile, prepare shrimp by wrapping each with a slice of bacon.
4. Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and bacon is crispy.
6. Stir in grated cheese into cooked polenta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve shrimp over cheesy polenta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Polenta with Lemon Garlic Butter
Shrimp and Polenta with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
This creamy polenta pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta cornmeal. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp; cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and lemon juice. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute.
4. Stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve polenta topped with shrimp and drizzled with lemon garlic butter sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy, dreamy flavors of shrimp and polenta with these 18 mouthwatering recipes. From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Polenta to spicy twists like Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Cheesy Polenta, there’s a dish for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and bright or rich and decadent, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
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