Few meals bring together comfort and flavor quite like the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet. With its creamy base of sweet corn polenta and a topping of spicy garlic lemon butter shrimp, this dish offers the perfect mix of richness, spice, and freshness. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. In this post, you’ll learn the full recipe—from essential ingredients and step-by-step preparation to pro cooking tips and serving ideas—for creating irresistible Sweet Corn Polenta with Shrimp right in your own kitchen.
A Summer Memory Turned Weeknight Favorite
The first time I tasted what would become this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet, it was a summer evening filled with laughter, golden light, and the hum of conversation around the table. Someone had brought a skillet bubbling with polenta, its surface glistening with melted butter and topped with shrimp that shimmered with lemon and garlic. One bite, and I was hooked—the creamy Shrimp Polenta offered comfort while the spicy citrus kick from the shrimp gave it life. It had the heart of Southern comfort food, yet the freshness of a coastal summer night.
Later, inspired by recipes like the Half Baked Harvest Shrimp dishes that blend rustic charm with bold flavors, I began crafting a version that could fit easily into my weeknight rotation. This Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp quickly became a household favorite—fast to prepare, visually stunning, and cozy enough to satisfy on even the chilliest evenings.
Part of the magic lies in balance. The polenta acts as a soft, creamy canvas, while the shrimp bring a burst of buttery garlic heat. Each element enhances the other—the polenta tempers the spice, and the shrimp’s boldness keeps every bite exciting. Sweet corn folded into the polenta adds texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with lemon zest and chili heat.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This cozy skillet dinner combines creamy sweet corn polenta with spicy garlic lemon butter shrimp. It’s a comforting, restaurant-style meal that’s quick enough for weeknights and elegant enough for entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, bring milk and water or broth to a gentle simmer.
2. Gradually whisk in cornmeal to avoid lumps, then reduce heat and cook, stirring frequently, until polenta is thick and creamy (20–25 minutes for stone-ground, 5–10 minutes for quick).
3. Stir in butter, Parmesan, heavy cream if using, and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper, then keep warm on low.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and golden.
6. Add remaining butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice to skillet, swirling to create a glossy sauce.
7. Spoon warm polenta into the skillet or onto plates, top with shrimp and sauce.
8. Garnish with parsley, drizzle chili oil if desired, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 190
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, sweet corn polenta, shrimp polenta, spicy lemon shrimp, buttery shrimp skillet, creamy polenta, weeknight dinner
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s adaptable. Serve it as an easy comfort dish after work, or present it in the skillet at your next dinner party for an elegant, rustic centerpiece. As the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet sizzles on the stove, the aroma of garlic, butter, and lemon zest will fill your kitchen, wrapping everyone in anticipation. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience that transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable.
Ingredients & Kitchen Setup
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Skillet
Before diving into the cooking process, gather everything you’ll need to create your Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet. The magic begins with high-quality ingredients that bring out the best in each layer of the dish. Sweet corn, creamy polenta, and spicy shrimp all come together perfectly when prepped and measured ahead of time.
| Category | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined | Fresh or frozen; thaw completely if using frozen |
| 3 garlic cloves, minced | Adds signature flavor and aroma | |
| ½ tsp red pepper flakes | Adjust for desired spice level | |
| 1 lemon, zested and juiced | Brings freshness and balance | |
| 3 tbsp unsalted butter | Use quality butter for richer flavor | |
| Polenta | 1 cup cornmeal (stone-ground or quick-cooking) | Stone-ground gives depth; quick type saves time |
| 2 cups milk | Helps achieve creamy texture | |
| 2 cups water or broth | Adds flavor depth | |
| 1 cup fresh corn kernels | Fresh or frozen, thawed | |
| ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese | Savory richness | |
| 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional) | Enhances silky texture | |
| Garnish | Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, chili oil | Optional for color and extra flavor |
Customization Tips:
- Increase spice with extra chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Use olive oil instead of butter or dairy-free milk for a lighter version.
- Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or goat cheese for variety.
This flexible Spicy Shrimp and Polenta recipe welcomes personalization while staying true to its cozy, rustic heart.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large cast-iron skillet for golden, even-seared shrimp
- Medium saucepan for smooth, well-cooked polenta
- Whisk to prevent clumping
- Wooden spoon or spatula for folding in butter and cheese
- Sharp knife and cutting board for easy prep
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Pro Tip: Have all ingredients measured and ready before cooking. Maintaining steady medium heat is key—shrimp cook evenly, and polenta never scorches.
Cooking the Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Polenta Base: Heat milk and water (or broth) in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it simmers, slowly whisk in the cornmeal to avoid lumps. Stir as it thickens for 20–25 minutes (5–10 for quick polenta). When creamy, fold in butter, Parmesan, and a splash of cream. Stir in fresh corn, season, and keep warm over low heat.
2. Sear the Shrimp in Garlic Lemon Butter: In a large cast-iron skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic, sauté briefly, then add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook about two minutes per side, then add remaining butter, lemon zest, and juice. Swirl until coated and glossy. Avoid overcooking for juicy texture.
3. Combine and Finish: Spoon the warm polenta into the skillet with the shrimp. Let the polenta absorb the lemon-garlic butter for one minute over low heat. Finish with chili oil, parsley, and fresh lemon juice for brightness. The result: a golden skillet of cozy Sweet Corn Polenta with Shrimp that feels both indulgent and homey.
Tips for Flavor, Texture, and Presentation
- Mind the shrimp: Remove from heat as soon as pink and opaque.
- Layer flavors: Season both polenta and shrimp as you cook for balanced taste.
- Stay creamy: If polenta thickens, whisk in a bit of milk or broth.
- Serve fresh: This dish shines best right off the stove.
Serving Ideas: Pair this Shrimp Polenta with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or warm garlic bread. A bright Sauvignon Blanc or citrus-infused sparkling water complements its buttery, spicy depth. For creative twists, add bacon, herbs, or creamy goat cheese to vary textures and flavors—all while keeping the essence of your Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp easy and vibrant.
FAQs, Serving & Storage
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw completely in the fridge or under cool water, pat dry, and sear for crisp edges and juicy centers.
How to keep polenta from getting too thick? Whisk often. If it firms up, stir in hot milk or broth until smooth and spoonable.
What pan works best? A cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and caramelization for perfect garlic butter sauce coverage.
Can polenta be made ahead? Absolutely. Refrigerate up to a day, then reheat gently with milk or broth. Add fresh shrimp before serving.
How spicy is it? Moderately spicy from red pepper flakes; adjust to your comfort level or add extra chili oil for heat lovers.
Serving & Storing Suggestions + Final Thoughts
Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Corn Polenta Skillet directly from the pan for rustic elegance. Spoon a base of creamy polenta onto plates, top with shrimp, and garnish with herbs, lemon, and chili oil for color. Family-style serving from the skillet also creates a warm, communal feel.
Storing: Keep shrimp and polenta separate in sealed containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat polenta gently with milk or broth, and warm shrimp lightly in butter to retain tenderness.
From first bite to last, this Sweet Corn Polenta with Shrimp embodies cozy nights and shared comfort. Born from summer inspiration, it pairs rich, savory butter and zesty lemon with bright corn sweetness. Whether for relaxed weeknights or joyful gatherings, the Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp nestled in creamy polenta always brings warmth, laughter, and the taste of home to every table.
