Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta Recipe

This Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta is a game-changer for dinner. In just 25 minutes, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that balances creamy, cheesy polenta with perfectly seared, zesty shrimp. The combination of spicy cajun seasoning, fresh herbs, and bright lemon creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Parmesan Corn Polenta:

• Butter: Creates richness and helps brown the corn for a nutty flavor foundation.
• Fresh Corn: Adds natural sweetness and texture that elevates basic polenta to something special. Fresh corn makes a huge difference here!
• Milk: Provides creaminess and helps the polenta achieve that silky-smooth texture we’re after.
• Dry Polenta: The star of the base layer. Don’t substitute regular cornmeal—proper polenta gives the right texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, umami notes that complement the sweet corn perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the polenta.

For the Shrimp:

• Olive Oil: Provides the base for searing the shrimp without burning the butter.
• Butter: Creates that luscious sauce that coats the shrimp and eventually mingles with the polenta.
• Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp work best here. The plumper the better for a juicy bite.
• Cajun Seasoning: Brings the heat and depth of flavor. Adjust according to your spice preference.
• Garlic: Absolutely non-negotiable! Provides aromatic punch that makes this dish irresistible.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note that balances the richness and spice.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens everything up and cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.

Variations

• Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for an equally delicious but different textural experience.
• Heat Level Adjustment: Dial the cajun seasoning up or down, or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder version with smoky notes.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and make garlic butter roasted mushrooms as the topping instead.
• Herb Variations: Substitute rosemary or oregano for thyme, or cilantro for basil if you prefer.
• Cheesy Options: Try using asiago or romano cheese instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile in your polenta.

How to Make Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta

Step 1: Prepare the Polenta

In a medium pot, melt the butter and add corn kernels. Cook for 5-8 minutes until the butter browns around the corn, developing a nutty aroma. Add water and milk, bringing the mixture to a low boil. Whisk in the polenta gradually, stirring continuously until it becomes soft and thick, about 3-5 minutes. Fold in the parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the polenta rest for 5 minutes to thicken further.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the polenta is resting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter, shrimp, cajun seasoning, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Cook until the shrimp are seared on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook! Add garlic and fresh thyme, continuing to cook just until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped basil. The residual heat will release the aromatic oils from the basil without wilting it completely. Spoon the creamy polenta into individual serving bowls, creating a small well in the center. Top generously with the shrimp and pour the garlic-lemon butter sauce over everything.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A crisp, chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors perfectly.

Presentation Tips

For an extra touch of elegance, serve in wide, shallow bowls that showcase the colorful components. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges for both visual appeal and flavor enhancement.

Complete the Meal

For a more substantial dinner, consider adding crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the polenta and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The polenta will firm up considerably when cold.

Freezing

The polenta freezes well for up to 1 month. The shrimp, however, are best enjoyed fresh and don’t freeze as successfully after cooking.

Reheating

To reheat polenta, add a splash of milk or water and warm slowly on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking.

Note: If planning to make ahead, consider making only the polenta in advance and preparing the shrimp fresh just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta is one of those magical recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The creamy polenta creates the perfect foundation for those perfectly seared shrimp swimming in garlicky, lemony butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself to an elevated weeknight dinner, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between impressive and accessible. Give it a try—I’m convinced it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection!

Print