Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta

This Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta is a restaurant-worthy meal made at home in just 25 minutes. Juicy Cajun-spiced shrimp are seared in garlic butter, then finished with fresh lemon and basil. Served over creamy Parmesan polenta studded with sweet summer corn, it’s a flavorful, comforting dish that’s both elegant and easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and creamy. The shrimp are seasoned with bold Cajun spices and seared in rich garlic butter, while the lemon juice and basil brighten each bite. The Parmesan corn polenta is smooth and cheesy with bursts of sweet corn for texture. Quick to make but impressive enough for entertaining, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a special dinner at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Parmesan Corn Polenta:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter

• Kernels from 3 ears corn

• 2 cups milk

• 1 cup dry polenta

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 4 tablespoons salted butter

• 1 1/2 pounds raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (see note below for homemade mix)

• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

• Juice from 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped

Optional Homemade Cajun Seasoning (makes 3/4 cup):
2 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper, 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt, 1 tablespoon black pepper.

Directions

1. Make the polenta: In a medium pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add corn kernels and cook 5–8 minutes until butter browns slightly around the corn. Add 2 cups water and milk. Bring to a low boil. Slowly whisk in polenta and cook, stirring, 3–5 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit 5 minutes.

2. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add butter, shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Sear shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly crisp. Add garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and fresh basil.

3. Assemble: Spoon polenta into bowls. Top with shrimp and pan sauce. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Calories: approximately 434 kcal per serving

Variations

• Use a different protein: Swap shrimp for scallops, salmon, or chicken.

• Make it spicier: Add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes to the Cajun seasoning.

• Cheese swap: Try pecorino, asiago, or gouda in place of Parmesan.

• Vegetarian option: Top polenta with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted vegetables.

• Add creaminess: Stir a splash of heavy cream into the polenta for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store polenta and shrimp separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

• Reheat polenta: Add a splash of milk or broth and reheat on the stovetop, stirring until creamy again.

• Reheat shrimp: Gently warm in a skillet with a bit of butter—avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.

• Freeze: Not recommended, as polenta and shrimp lose texture after freezing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Do I need to use fresh corn?

Fresh is best, but frozen or canned corn works in a pinch.

What type of polenta should I use?

Quick-cooking polenta is easiest here, but traditional polenta works too—just adjust cooking time.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Can I make the polenta ahead?

Yes, but it will firm up as it sits. Reheat with milk or broth to loosen.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

It’s moderately spicy—reduce cayenne or chili powder for a milder version.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Yes, toss shrimp with olive oil and seasoning, then grill 2–3 minutes per side. Finish with garlic butter and lemon.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or crusty bread complement it nicely.

Can I use grits instead of polenta?

Yes, grits work as a delicious substitute with a slightly different texture.

How do I prevent the polenta from clumping?

Whisk continuously while adding polenta to boiling liquid for a smooth, creamy result.

Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Corn Polenta is a quick, flavorful dish that combines Cajun-spiced shrimp with creamy, cheesy corn polenta. With bold, garlicky shrimp and a rich base of Parmesan polenta, it’s a comforting yet elegant meal you can make in under 30 minutes—perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

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