Description
This Creamy Polenta and Garlic Spiced Shrimp recipe combines velvety polenta, perfectly spiced shrimp, and a savory tomato sauce. A flavorful main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Tomato Mixture:
- 2 cans Rotel tomatoes
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt to taste
For the Polenta:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup coarse-grain polenta
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Kosher salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Toss to coat.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
- In the same skillet, combine Rotel tomatoes, garlic, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook until hot.
- Add shrimp back to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cover.
- Make the Polenta:
- Combine water and milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and slowly whisk in polenta.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk until thick and creamy, about 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter, cheese, and salt.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spoon polenta into bowls. Top with the shrimp and tomato mixture. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- To adjust spice levels, reduce cayenne or Cajun seasoning.
- For dairy-free, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: Italian-Cajun Fusion
Nutrition
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 210mg