Description
This Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp recipe combines tender sautéed shrimp with smooth, buttery polenta for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the dish features seasoned shrimp cooked in garlic butter paired with rich and creamy polenta made from chicken broth, milk, and butter. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish delivers a delightful balance of textures and savory flavors in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil, for marinating
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
Polenta
- 1 cup coarse polenta (cornmeal)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Polenta: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and milk to a boil. Gradually whisk in the coarse polenta to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 25 to 30 minutes until the polenta thickens and becomes creamy. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and add salt to taste to enhance the flavor.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the creamy polenta into serving bowls. Top each serving with the sautéed shrimp and drizzle with any pan juices from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Use coarse polenta for best creamy texture; fine polenta may become gluey.
- For a richer polenta, substitute milk with heavy cream or a mix of both.
- Adjust paprika amount to control spice level or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version (omit shrimp or use plant-based shrimp if vegan).
- Serve immediately for best texture, as polenta thickens upon standing.