Name: Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup yellow cornmeal (or polenta); 4 cups water (or 2 cups water + 2 cups milk/broth); 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for finishing); 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 lb large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup white wine (or 2 tbsp lemon juice + 2 tbsp broth); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for finishing); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for shrimp

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy polenta. It reminds me of cold evenings in my kitchen, stirring the pot gently while the aroma of butter and cornmeal fills the air. But what truly elevates this humble dish is the addition of tender, sautéed shrimp bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce. It’s a coastal-meets-countryside harmony that I return to time and again.

This recipe for Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp is not just a meal; it’s a restaurant-worthy experience you can recreate in your home without fuss. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply craving something soul-warming and satisfying, this dish hits the mark. The contrast between the silkiness of the polenta and the juicy, seasoned shrimp is simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp

This dish has everything going for it—flavor, texture, and elegance with minimal effort. The creamy polenta acts as the perfect canvas, soaking up the rich shrimp sauce like a sponge. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner but refined enough to serve guests.

You’ll also love how quick and customizable it is. With pantry staples and just a handful of fresh ingredients, it comes together in under an hour. Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This is proof.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

When making Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp, I always recommend using large or extra-large shrimp—something in the 16/20 range per pound. These are meaty enough to hold up well when sautéed and offer that juicy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy polenta. Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work great too—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

If you’re lucky enough to have access to wild-caught shrimp, go for it. They tend to have a sweeter, more robust flavor. And don’t toss those shells! If you’re up for it, they can be simmered into a quick stock that adds even more flavor to the dish.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, so don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand. Here are some smart swaps that still deliver fantastic results:

Shrimp Alternatives: Try scallops or even chunks of flaky white fish like cod. For a land-based twist, crispy pancetta or sausage can also pair well with polenta.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil and use unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of cream or regular milk. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan for a savory kick.
Polenta Base: If you’re out of cornmeal, instant grits work in a pinch. Just follow the cooking time adjustment on the package.
Wine Substitute: No white wine? A splash of lemon juice or a touch of apple cider vinegar can provide the needed acidity in the shrimp sauce.
Herbs & Aromatics: Swap parsley for chives, basil, or even a touch of dill depending on what you have in your fridge.

Ingredients for This Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in building depth, texture, and that satisfying balance between creamy and savory. Here’s what you’ll need and why it’s essential:

Shrimp (large or extra-large, peeled and deveined): The star of the dish. Juicy, tender, and perfect for absorbing all the garlicky, buttery flavors.
Yellow Cornmeal (or polenta): This is the creamy, comforting base. It offers a mellow corn flavor that pairs wonderfully with bold toppings like shrimp.
Butter: Used in both the polenta and shrimp sauce. It gives richness and that indulgent mouthfeel you expect from creamy comfort food.
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Adds saltiness and a nutty, umami depth to the polenta, taking it from basic to luxurious.
Milk and Water (or broth): The liquid base for the polenta. Milk ensures creaminess while water or broth allows control over saltiness and enhances flavor.
Garlic (minced): A must-have aromatic for the shrimp. It infuses the oil and butter with deep flavor that clings to every bite.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the shrimp to golden perfection and creates the base for the sauce.
White Wine (optional): Adds brightness and acidity to deglaze the pan after cooking the shrimp.
Lemon Juice: Cuts through the richness with a refreshing tang, brightening the entire dish.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the shrimp and the polenta at every stage.
Fresh Parsley (chopped): A final touch for freshness and color, balancing out the warm tones of the dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Polenta Base

Start by bringing 4 cups of water (or a mix of water and milk for extra creaminess) to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Add a generous pinch of salt. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of yellow cornmeal to prevent clumping. Reduce the heat to low and stir frequently as it thickens—this will take around 25–30 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of grated parmesan at the end for a rich, creamy finish.

Step 2: Season and Prep the Shrimp

While the polenta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss them in a bowl with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes if you like a little heat. This quick seasoning gives the shrimp a head start on flavor before hitting the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in 3–4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in ¼ cup of white wine (or a squeeze of lemon juice plus 2 tablespoons of broth) to deglaze, scraping up the brown bits. Let it simmer for a minute, then stir in 2 tablespoons of butter. Return the shrimp to the pan and coat them in the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Spoon the creamy polenta onto plates or into shallow bowls. Top with the shrimp and a drizzle of that buttery garlic sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a quick crack of black pepper for a pop of color and flavor.

How Long to Cook the Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp

Timing is key in this dish, but thankfully, it’s quite manageable:

Polenta: Needs about 25–30 minutes to become thick and creamy when using traditional yellow cornmeal. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and lumps. If using quick-cook or instant polenta, reduce the time to around 5–10 minutes—just follow the package instructions.
Shrimp: Cooks quickly—just 1–2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they curl into a loose “C” shape and turn pink and slightly golden. Overcooking is a common pitfall, so keep a close eye!
Overall prep and cooking time: Around 40 minutes total from start to finish, including prepping, cooking, and assembling.

Tips for Perfect Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp

Whisk the Cornmeal In Slowly: Avoid dumping it all at once—gradual incorporation prevents lumps and ensures silky-smooth polenta.
Use Broth for Flavor: Swap half the water in your polenta for chicken or vegetable broth to deepen the flavor without extra effort.
Season in Layers: Salt the cooking liquid for polenta, season the shrimp before cooking, and taste the sauce before serving to keep all elements well-balanced.
Don’t Walk Away from Polenta: Stirring often helps break down the grains evenly and avoids burning on the bottom of the pot.
Finish Strong: Add that final pat of butter or splash of lemon juice to brighten and enrich the dish just before serving.
Rest Before Serving: Let the shrimp sit in the sauce for 1–2 minutes off heat—this allows them to soak up the flavor without overcooking.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even with a straightforward dish like Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp, a few missteps can impact the final result. Here are the most common ones to avoid:

Rushing the Polenta: If you try to cook it too fast on high heat, it will scorch or stay gritty. Low and slow is the way to creamy success.
Using Too Little Liquid: Skimping on water, milk, or broth makes polenta too dense. It should be pourable—not like mashed potatoes.
Overcooking the Shrimp: They go from perfect to rubbery fast. As soon as they curl and turn opaque, take them off the heat.
Skipping the Seasoning: Undersalted polenta tastes bland. Season each layer—liquid, shrimp, and sauce.
Neglecting to Stir: Letting polenta sit unattended leads to clumps and burns at the bottom. Stir often!
Crowding the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if needed. Crowding cools the pan, and instead of searing, they’ll steam.

What to Serve With Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp?

This dish shines on its own, but these sides and sips can turn it into a well-rounded, impressive spread:

Garlic Sautéed Spinach

A bright, quick-cooked green that complements the richness of the polenta.

Lemon-Dressed Arugula Salad

Peppery and citrusy, this fresh salad cuts through the buttery shrimp sauce.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for scooping up any leftover polenta or shrimp sauce—don’t waste a drop.

Roasted Broccolini

Adds crunch and a bit of char, bringing a new texture to the plate.

White Wine

Pair with the same dry white wine used in cooking—like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—for a seamless flavor experience.

Cherry Tomato Salad

A juicy, acidic contrast to creamy and rich textures. Use balsamic or red wine vinegar for a tangy bite.

Herbed Mushrooms

Sautéed with thyme or rosemary, these bring a woodsy depth and umami to the dish.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp can be just as enjoyable the next day—with a few small tricks to keep the texture and flavor on point.

Polenta Storage: Let the polenta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will firm up in the fridge and can last for up to 4 days.
Shrimp Storage: Store cooked shrimp separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheating gently is key to avoiding toughness.
Reheating Tips:
- Polenta: Add a splash of water, milk, or broth, then reheat over low heat while stirring. It will return to a creamy state.
- Shrimp: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a touch of butter or olive oil—just until heated through.
Freezing Notes: Polenta freezes well! Spread it in a shallow dish, cut it into squares once solid, and freeze. Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t reheat as well after freezing.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general overview per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: ~460 kcal
Protein: ~26g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~23g
Saturated Fat: ~11g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugars: ~3g
Cholesterol: ~180mg
Sodium: ~720mg

These values can vary depending on the amount of butter, cheese, or salt you use and whether substitutions were made. If you’re tracking specific dietary goals, consider adjusting ingredient amounts accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between polenta and grits?

Polenta is traditionally made from yellow corn, while grits are typically white corn (hominy). Both are ground cornmeal, but polenta tends to have a slightly firmer, creamier texture and a more pronounced corn flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan and ensure they sear properly.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can easily add a kick with red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce in the shrimp sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep components like polenta and the shrimp sauce ahead of time. However, shrimp are best cooked just before serving to keep their texture perfect.

How do I make the polenta creamier?

Use a 50/50 blend of milk and water or even a bit of cream, and finish with extra butter and grated parmesan. Stir frequently and be generous with the liquids.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all added ingredients (like broth or wine) are certified gluten-free.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a dry rosé pairs wonderfully with the garlic-butter shrimp and creamy polenta.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, this recipe scales beautifully. Just use a larger pot for polenta and cook the shrimp in batches so they sear instead of steam.

Conclusion

Easy Creamy Polenta & Shrimp is one of those rare dishes that looks impressive, tastes luxurious, and still manages to be simple enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s comfort food with elegance—creamy, buttery, and rich, yet brightened with lemon, herbs, and juicy shrimp.

Whether you’re entertaining or just indulging in a cozy meal, this recipe delivers both flavor and finesse. It’s one you’ll find yourself craving again and again.