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Amazing 35-Minute Polenta Shrimp

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Polenta Shrimp

Polenta shrimp has become my go-to for a quick yet incredibly satisfying meal, and I’m so excited to share this simple shrimp and polenta recipe with you! I first discovered the magic of pairing creamy polenta with succulent shrimp on a trip down South, and it was love at first bite. The way the garlicky, slightly spicy shrimp sauce coats the smooth, cheesy polenta is pure comfort food heaven. It smells amazing as it cooks, and the taste is even better. This easy polenta shrimp dish is perfect for a weeknight but feels special enough for guests. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Polenta Shrimp

This Polenta Shrimp recipe is a weeknight winner for so many reasons:

  • It’s incredibly quick, with a total cook time of just 35 minutes.
  • The combination of creamy polenta and flavorful shrimp is pure comfort food.
  • It’s a fantastic one-pot polenta shrimp meal, minimizing cleanup.
  • The garlic and red pepper flakes create a wonderfully aromatic and slightly spicy kick.
  • You get a satisfying and elegant meal without a lot of fuss.
  • It’s easily adaptable to your taste preferences.
  • This simple shrimp and polenta dish is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
  • It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dinner that feels special.

Ingredients for Polenta Shrimp

Gather these simple items for a fantastic creamy polenta shrimp dish. I love that most of these are pantry staples!

  • 1 cup polenta – this is the base for our creamy polenta, providing a hearty texture.
  • 4 cups water or broth – water works fine, but broth adds an extra layer of flavor to the polenta.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – essential for seasoning the polenta as it cooks.
  • 2 tablespoons butter – makes the polenta wonderfully rich and smooth.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a savory, cheesy depth that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – the star of our dish, providing lean protein.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the shrimp and building flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – this is key for that delicious garlic shrimp flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – adds a gentle warmth, perfect for a spicy shrimp cheesy polenta.
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth – helps deglaze the pan and creates a light sauce for the shrimp.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – for a burst of freshness and color.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – to season everything perfectly for your simple shrimp and polenta.

How to Make Polenta Shrimp

Let’s whip up this incredible shrimp over cheesy polenta! It’s simpler than you think. Don’t worry if you’re new to making polenta; this recipe guides you through every step. The aroma alone will make you so excited to dig in!

  1. Step 1: Get your polenta started. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or broth and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, gradually whisk in the 1 cup of polenta. Keep whisking to prevent lumps.
  2. Step 2: Time for the polenta to get creamy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nice and thick.
  3. Step 3: Finish the polenta. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until they’re completely melted and the polenta is smooth and luxurious. Cover it again and keep it warm while you prepare the shrimp.
  4. Step 4: Start the shrimp. While the polenta is cooking, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering, not smoking.
  5. Step 5: Cook the shrimp perfectly. Add the 1 pound of large shrimp to the hot skillet. Cook for just 1-2 minutes per side. They’ll turn pink and opaque quickly – don’t overcook them or they’ll get tough!
  6. Step 6: Add the aromatics. Toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful garlicky fragrance.
  7. Step 7: Create the sauce. Pour in the 1/4 cup of chicken broth. Use your spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet – that’s where so much flavor is!
  8. Step 8: Freshen it up. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Season the shrimp mixture with salt and black pepper to your liking. This step really brings the whole garlic shrimp polenta dish together.
  9. Step 9: Assemble your masterpiece. Spoon generous portions of the warm, creamy polenta into bowls.
  10. Step 10: Top with the flavorful shrimp. Ladle the garlic shrimp and its sauce right over the polenta. Serve your delicious Polenta Shrimp immediately and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for the Best Polenta Shrimp

I’ve made this creamy polenta shrimp more times than I can count, and these little tricks always elevate it:

  • Use stone-ground polenta for the best texture; instant polenta can be a bit gummy.
  • Don’t skip whisking the polenta into boiling liquid – this is crucial for a smooth, lump-free base.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at every stage, especially for the shrimp and the polenta itself.
  • For a truly decadent experience, use half milk and half broth for the polenta.

What’s the secret to perfect Polenta Shrimp?

The secret is in the technique for both the polenta and the shrimp. Ensure your polenta is cooked until truly creamy and thick, and don’t overcook your shrimp; they should just turn pink and opaque for tender results. For more tips on cooking techniques, check out this guide to cooking techniques.

Can I make Polenta Shrimp ahead of time?

You can prepare the polenta a few hours ahead and keep it warm, or refrigerate it and reheat gently with a splash of liquid. However, I recommend cooking the shrimp just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Polenta Shrimp?

The biggest mistake is lumpy polenta, so whisk vigorously when adding it to the liquid. Another pitfall is overcooked shrimp, which become rubbery. Cook them quickly until just done. Learn more about baking secrets that can apply to other dishes.

Amazing 35-Minute Polenta Shrimp - Polenta Shrimp - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Polenta Shrimp

This shrimp over cheesy polenta is so versatile! It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but I love pairing it with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside some steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach. This simple shrimp and polenta dish also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, making it perfect for entertaining guests or a cozy dinner for two.

Nutrition Facts for Polenta Shrimp

This easy polenta shrimp dish offers a balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your quick polenta shrimp recipe. For more healthy options, check out these healthy recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Polenta Shrimp

Leftover polenta shrimp is still delicious, but it’s best to store the components separately if possible! Once cooled, transfer the polenta to an airtight container and the shrimp mixture to another. You can store both in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the polenta and shrimp mixture separately for up to 3 months. Reheating the polenta is best done gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth, stirring until creamy again. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This makes enjoying your comfort food polenta shrimp leftovers a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Polenta Shrimp

Can I use instant polenta for this recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can use instant polenta for a quicker version of this easy polenta shrimp dish. Just follow the package directions, which usually involve a shorter cooking time, about 5-10 minutes. You might need to adjust the liquid ratio slightly, so keep an eye on the consistency. It’s a great shortcut if you’re short on time!

What kind of shrimp is best for polenta shrimp?

For this garlic shrimp polenta, large or jumbo shrimp work best. They hold up well to the quick cooking and provide a satisfying bite against the creamy polenta. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for the easiest eating experience. Fresh or frozen (thawed properly) are both fine options for this simple shrimp and polenta.

Can I make this Polenta Shrimp recipe spicier?

Definitely! If you love a kick, you can easily amp up the heat in your spicy shrimp cheesy polenta. I’d suggest increasing the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon, or even adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture. You could also serve it with a side of your favorite hot sauce for guests who like it extra fiery!

What are some good side dishes to serve with Polenta Shrimp?

This delicious polenta shrimp dinner idea is quite complete on its own, but a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette is always a welcome addition. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also pair beautifully, adding a touch of freshness and color. If you want to go all out, some crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce is never a bad idea!

Variations of Polenta Shrimp You Can Try

While this shrimp and polenta recipe is fantastic as is, I love playing around with different flavors and methods. Here are a few ideas to switch things up for your next polenta shrimp dinner:

  • Cheesy Polenta Variations: For an extra decadent bowl, try adding different cheeses to your polenta! Smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, or even a dollop of mascarpone cheese can create a wonderfully rich and creamy base for your shrimp.
  • Spicy Shrimp Cheesy Polenta: If you crave more heat, sauté some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the garlic and red pepper flakes. You could also stir a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce into the shrimp mixture just before serving.
  • One-Pot Polenta Shrimp: To minimize cleanup, you can try making this a true one-pot wonder. Cook the polenta as directed, then in the same pot (after removing the polenta), sauté the shrimp and aromatics, deglaze with broth, and then stir it all back into the finished polenta.
  • Fried Polenta Shrimp: For a fun textural contrast, cook the polenta, let it cool and set in a dish, then cut it into squares or rounds and pan-fry or bake them until golden and crispy before topping with the shrimp. It’s a delightful twist on the classic!
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Polenta Shrimp

Amazing 35-Minute Polenta Shrimp


  • Author: Jannet Lisa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy polenta shrimp recipe features creamy polenta topped with succulent garlic shrimp. It’s a flavorful and quick meal perfect for any night of the week.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup polenta
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring water or broth and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook, whisking occasionally, until polenta is thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
  3. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Keep warm.
  4. While polenta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
  6. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  8. Stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  9. Spoon creamy polenta into bowls. Top with the garlic shrimp mixture.
  10. Serve your delicious polenta shrimp immediately.

Notes

  • For a richer polenta, use milk instead of water or broth.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice to the shrimp for extra brightness.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference for spicy shrimp cheesy polenta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: polenta shrimp, shrimp and polenta, creamy polenta shrimp, easy polenta shrimp, garlic shrimp polenta, cheesy polenta shrimp, shrimp over polenta, one-pot polenta shrimp, quick polenta shrimp, simple shrimp polenta

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