When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the combination of succulent shrimp and creamy polenta. This classic pairing is a staple of many cuisines, from Cajun and Creole cooking to Italian and Mediterranean flavors. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 19 delicious recipes that feature shrimp and polenta as the star duo. From spicy Cajun-inspired dishes to rich and creamy sauces, each recipe offers a unique twist on this beloved combination. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for our collection of mouthwatering recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Cheesy Polenta
Elevate your meal with this flavorful combination of succulent shrimp and creamy polenta, infused with the richness of garlic butter and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy. Stir in remaining butter and cheese until melted.
5. Serve shrimp atop polenta, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Creamy Polenta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with succulent shrimp and creamy polenta for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until pink and just cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Stir in heavy cream and butter until combined.
5. Serve shrimp over creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Creole Shrimp over Parmesan Polenta
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans with this spicy shrimp dish served atop creamy Parmesan polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup Parmesan polenta (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions or recipe.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 1 minute to coat the shrimp.
5. Serve shrimp over Parmesan polenta, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Herbed Polenta
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and flavorful dish, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, served atop creamy herbed polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring polenta and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve shrimp atop herbed polenta, garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Shrimp and Grits-Style Polenta Bowl
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy, spicy polenta bowl, inspired by the classic Lowcountry dish, shrimp and grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup spicy sausage, such as andouille or chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook polenta according to package instructions with 2 cups water, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
5. Stir in frozen peas and carrots; cook until thawed.
6. To assemble bowls, divide cooked polenta among four bowls. Top with spicy sausage mixture, grated cheddar cheese (if using), and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Tomato Basil Shrimp with Soft Polenta
A flavorful and refreshing summer dish that combines succulent shrimp, sweet tomatoes, and creamy polenta. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions using 4 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices.
5. Serve the shrimp mixture over the soft polenta. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp over Smoky Polenta
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp over Smoky Polenta Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon-wrapped shrimp with creamy smoky polenta, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 cup of smoky polenta (see note)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each shrimp with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. While the shrimp is cooking, heat the smoky polenta according to package instructions.
6. Serve the shrimp over the warm polenta and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: To make smoky polenta, combine 1 cup of polenta with 2 cups of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the polenta is creamy and tender.
Creamy Polenta with Grilled Shrimp and Chimichurri
This flavorful dish combines the creaminess of polenta with the sweetness of grilled shrimp, all tied together with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chimichurri sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
2. Meanwhile, preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Stir butter into cooked polenta until melted. Add grilled shrimp on top of the polenta.
4. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Shrimp with Soft Polenta
Experience the flavors of the tropics with this vibrant dish, where succulent shrimp are wrapped in a rich coconut curry sauce and served atop creamy soft polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions with 4 cups of water. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, then add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in coconut milk, curry sauce, and cumin. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve shrimp over soft polenta.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Scampi over Lemon-Parmesan Polenta
This dish combines the bright flavors of lemon and parmesan with the simplicity of shrimp scampi, served atop creamy polenta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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 5 minutes.
2. Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Serve scampi over polenta, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Shrimp with Creamy Polenta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened shrimp with the comforting warmth of creamy polenta, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and blackening seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, bring chicken broth and polenta cornmeal to a boil in a separate saucepan.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth.
7. Serve blackened shrimp atop creamy polenta and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Polenta Casserole
A hearty casserole that combines the flavors of spicy sausage, succulent shrimp, and creamy polenta. This dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add shrimp to skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked polenta, sausage, shrimp mixture, and chicken broth. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mushroom and Shrimp Polenta Bake
This recipe combines the creamy richness of polenta with the savory flavors of sautéed mushrooms and succulent shrimp, all baked to perfection in one dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent and mushrooms are tender.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked polenta, mushroom-shrimp mixture, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Harissa Shrimp with Creamy Polenta
This recipe combines the spicy kick of harissa with the richness of creamy polenta, perfectly pairing bold flavors and textures. Savor the combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic spices, and comforting cornmeal goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup polenta
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Stir in harissa, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pot, bring the polenta to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve shrimp on top of creamy polenta and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Spinach Polenta Stacks
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, wilted spinach, and a velvety polenta base. These stacks are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
3. Stir Parmesan cheese into cooked polenta. Divide mixture among four 6-inch ramekins or small cups.
4. Top each stack with a shrimp patty, wilted spinach leaves, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp over Cheesy Polenta
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and comforting dish, featuring succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy polenta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup polenta
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions using chicken broth. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the shrimp mixture over the cheesy polenta. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño-Lime Shrimp with Cilantro Polenta
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the heat of jalapeños and the brightness of lime, all wrapped up in a creamy cilantro polenta. Perfect for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, and cumin. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper. Serve shrimp on top of polenta.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Polenta Breakfast Bowl with Poached Eggs
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast bowl that combines succulent shrimp, creamy polenta, and perfectly poached eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 poached eggs (see poaching instructions below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the polenta according to package instructions using water or broth and salt.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pan.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. To poach eggs, crack them into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
6. To assemble the breakfast bowl, place cooked polenta at the bottom, followed by shrimp, and top with a poached egg. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Honey Sriracha Shrimp over Sweet Corn Polenta
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a sweet and spicy honey sriracha sauce, served atop creamy sweet corn polenta. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup sweet corn polenta (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sweet corn polenta according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add honey and sriracha sauce; whisk until smooth.
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Serve shrimp on top of sweet corn polenta. Drizzle with remaining honey-sriracha sauce.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in a world of creamy shrimp and polenta recipes! Discover 19 mouthwatering dishes that combine succulent shrimp with comforting, cheesy polenta. From classic garlic butter to spicy Cajun flavors, there’s something for every taste bud. Enjoy decadent dishes like Shrimp Scampi over Lemon-Parmesan Polenta or Blackened Shrimp with Creamy Polenta. Treat yourself to a shrimp and grits-style bowl or try unique combinations like Coconut Curry Shrimp with Soft Polenta. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, these recipes are sure to delight!