The Perfect Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Shrimp dancing in a zesty spicy garlic lemon butter sauce promises pure culinary magic.

These succulent seafood gems burst with vibrant flavors that tantalize every taste bud.

Bright citrus notes mingle perfectly with rich, spicy undertones, creating an irresistible combination.

The butter adds a luxurious silkiness that coats each tender morsel.

Garlic brings a robust depth that elevates this simple dish into something extraordinary.

Preparing this recipe takes mere minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner solution.

FAQs

• Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

Cajun seasoning varies in heat, but most blends have a moderate kick. You can adjust the spiciness by using less seasoning or choosing a mild blend.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure a good sear and prevent excess moisture in the pan.

• What if I don't have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works fine. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried compared to fresh herbs to maintain the right flavor intensity.

• Do I need special equipment to make polenta?

No, just a medium pot and whisk are sufficient. Stir consistently to prevent lumps and achieve a creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love Spicy Shrimp

• Quick and Flavorful Meal: Spice up your dinner with this zesty shrimp recipe that combines bold Cajun seasonings, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon for a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Cooking Technique: Master two cooking methods in one dish – perfectly creamy polenta and beautifully seared shrimp, making it an excellent skill-building recipe for home cooks.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Create a restaurant-quality meal in your kitchen that appeals to both adults and kids, with simple ingredients and a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.
• Simple One-Pan Preparation: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this streamlined recipe that requires minimal dishes and can be prepared in just a few straightforward steps, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Spicy Shrimp Ingredient Rundown

• Polenta: A creamy Italian cornmeal that serves as the base for this comforting dish.
• Shrimp: The star protein that brings a delightful seafood flavor to the recipe.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, flavorful sauce.

• Cajun Seasoning, Pepper: Provides a spicy and bold kick to the shrimp.
• Thyme, Basil: Fresh herbs that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Salt: Helps to balance and intensify the other seasonings.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps create a light, zesty sauce.
• Milk, Parmesan Cheese: Contributes creaminess and a rich, tangy flavor to the polenta.
• Water: Helps to cook the polenta to the right consistency.

• Corn, Garlic: Provides extra depth and sweetness to the dish.

Spicy Shrimp Cooking Steps

Step 1: Prepare Creamy Polenta

In a medium pot, melt butter and sauté corn until the butter turns golden brown around the kernels.

Pour in water and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.

Whisk in polenta, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes soft and thick.

This process takes about 3-5 minutes.

Fold in parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Remove from heat, cover the pot, and let the polenta rest for 5 minutes to develop a rich, creamy texture.

Step 2: Cook Zesty Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Cajun seasoning
• Black pepper

Sear the shrimp, cooking 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and slightly crisp.

Toss in garlic and thyme, continuing to cook until the garlic releases its aromatic flavors.

Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.

Finish by stirring in chopped basil for a burst of herbal freshness.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Ladle the creamy polenta into serving bowls.

Top generously with the spicy, herb-infused shrimp and its flavorful sauce.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy polenta and zesty shrimp.

Pro Tips for Spicy Shrimp Success

• Slowly melt butter with corn to develop rich, nutty flavors without burning, stirring constantly for even caramelization.
• Use consistent whisking motion when adding polenta to prevent lumps, creating a creamy, silky texture that's lump-free.
• Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for just 2-3 minutes per side to maintain tender, juicy texture and prevent rubbery consistency.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning according to personal heat preference, adding more or less to suit individual taste without overwhelming the dish.
• Add basil and thyme at the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavors and aromatic qualities, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Flavor Variations for Spicy Shrimp

• Zucchini Noodle Base: Replace polenta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.
• Cauliflower Mash Alternative: Swap polenta with creamy cauliflower mash for a lighter, keto-friendly version that maintains the dish's rich flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Style: Substitute Cajun seasoning with oregano and za'atar, and serve over herbed quinoa for a Mediterranean-inspired seafood meal.
• Vegan Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with marinated king oyster mushrooms or tofu, using smoked paprika and plant-based butter to mimic the original dish's robust taste.

Serving Spicy Garlic Lemon Shrimp

• Flavor Fusion Plate: Layer the creamy polenta as a rich base, topping it with the zesty, spicy shrimp for a beautiful color and texture contrast.
• Herb Garden Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the dish to add a bright green pop and extra herbal freshness.
• Citrus Side Kick: Serve with a small wedge of lemon on the side, allowing diners to squeeze extra tangy brightness directly onto their shrimp just before eating.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Match this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the garlic and lemon notes.

Storing Spicy Garlic Lemon Shrimp

• Store leftover shrimp and polenta separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 1-2 days maximum.
• Place shrimp and polenta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Gently reheat shrimp in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil over medium-low heat. Warm polenta in a separate pot, adding extra milk or water to restore creamy texture.
• Freeze shrimp and polenta in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using microwave or stovetop method.

Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Spicy Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp sizzles with zesty Mediterranean flavors that dance across your palate. Quick, elegant seafood perfection promises a restaurant-quality meal straight from your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seafood:

• 1 1/2 pounds raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh basil (roughly chopped)
• 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

Base and Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 ears corn (kernels removed from the cob)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup dry polenta
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Juice from 1 lemon

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Instructions

1. Prepare the polenta by melting butter with corn in a medium pot over medium heat for 5-8 minutes, allowing the butter to brown around the edges.
2. Pour 2 cups of water and milk into the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes soft and thick, approximately 3-5 minutes.
3. Incorporate parmesan cheese into the polenta, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove from heat, cover the pot, and let it rest for 5 minutes to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add butter and shrimp, generously coating with Cajun seasonings and black pepper.
5. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden color and are nearly cooked through.
6. Introduce minced garlic and thyme to the skillet, cooking until the garlic becomes aromatic and the shrimp are fully cooked.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle with chopped basil.
8. Divide the creamy polenta among serving bowls, topping each portion with the spicy garlic lemon butter shrimp.
9. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the flavors to meld together for a delightful dining experience.

Notes

• Customize Polenta Consistency by gradually adding water or milk to achieve your preferred thickness, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
• Prevent Shrimp Overcooking by watching for color changes and removing from heat when they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side.
• Enhance Flavor Depth by browning butter slightly before adding corn, creating a nutty undertone that complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Accommodate Dietary Restrictions by substituting dairy milk with almond or coconut milk for a lactose-free version, and using gluten-free Cajun seasoning for those with sensitivities.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 345 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 610 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg