If you’re looking for a dish that combines tropical flavors with rich, creamy goodness, this creamy coconut shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. With tender, juicy shrimp simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with garlic, lime, and spices, it’s a delightful fusion of taste and texture that’s hard to resist.

Perfect for seafood lovers, creamy coconut shrimp is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly quick and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Serve it with fluffy jasmine rice, crusty bread, or a side of steamed vegetables to create a complete, satisfying meal.

Ready to bring a tropical twist to your dinner table? Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible creamy coconut shrimp recipe at home!

Close-up of creamy coconut shrimp garnished with fresh herbs in a black bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe

To make this flavorful creamy coconut shrimp recipe, you’ll need a selection of fresh and aromatic ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s tropical and creamy flavor profile. Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients:

1. Shrimp

You can use medium or large shrimp for this recipe
Opt for fresh, deveined shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Tip: You can keep the tails on for presentation or remove them for easier eating.

2. Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star of the dish, creating the creamy base. Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, velvety texture.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute with light coconut milk, but the sauce may be thinner.

Fresh ingredients for creamy coconut shrimp arranged in small bowls on a marble surface.

3. Garlic and Onion

Fresh garlic and onion are essential for the aromatic base of the sauce.
Minced garlic adds depth, while finely chopped onion provides a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors.

4. Lime Juice

Freshly squeezed lime juice brings a bright, zesty note to the dish, cutting through the creaminess of the coconut milk.
You can also use lime zest to enhance the citrusy flavor.

5. Spices and Seasonings

Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and a hint of sweetness.
Turmeric: Enhances the color of the sauce and adds an earthy undertone.
Salt and pepper: are ingredients to taste for equilibration and flavor.
For an extra kick, you can add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

6. Fresh Cilantro

Chopped fresh cilantro is the perfect garnish, adding a burst of freshness and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions are great alternatives.

7. Optional Add-Ins

Vegetables: Bell peppers, snap peas, or baby spinach can be added for more texture and nutrition.
Protein Variations: If shrimp isn’t your preference, you can use chicken, tofu, or fish.

8. Cooking Oil

Use a neutral cooking oil like vegetable or coconut oil to sauté the aromatics and shrimp. Coconut oil complements the tropical flavors of the dish perfectly.

9. Side Dish Staples

Pair this dish with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles. The sauce clings beautifully to these accompaniments, making every bite more satisfying.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering creamy coconut shrimp dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Let’s move on to preparing the shrimp!

Preparing the Shrimp and Cooking the Creamy Coconut Sauce

Creating the perfect creamy coconut shrimp recipe starts with properly preparing the shrimp and crafting a rich, flavorful sauce. This step-by-step guide ensures each element of the dish shines.

1. Preparing the Shrimp

Cleaning and Deveining the Shrimp

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to remove any grit.
Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation, or fully remove them for convenience.
Devein the shrimp by making a small slit along the back and pulling out the black vein with a knife or skewer.
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a slight sear.

Marinating the Shrimp

To infuse the shrimp with flavor, prepare a simple marinade:
- Combine lime juice, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper.
- Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 10–15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. This step enhances the shrimp’s flavor while keeping it tender.

Cooking the Shrimp

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet or pan over medium heat.
Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

2. Cooking the Creamy Coconut Sauce

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté minced garlic and finely chopped onion over medium heat.
Cook until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
If desired, add a small knob of ginger for an extra layer of flavor.

Adding Spices for Depth

Sprinkle in your chosen spices, such as paprika, turmeric, and a pinch of chili flakes.
Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aromas and deepen their flavor.

Creating the Coconut Milk Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine with the aromatics and spices.
Add a splash of lime juice and a teaspoon of fish sauce or soy sauce for added umami.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.

Combining the Shrimp with the Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly in the creamy coconut sauce.
Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, letting the shrimp absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or lime juice.

3. Final Touches

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish for a burst of freshness and color.
For a touch of heat, garnish with thinly sliced red chilies or chili flakes.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve a dish where every bite is bursting with the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and zesty brightness. Up next, explore the best serving suggestions to complement your dish!

A plate of creamy coconut shrimp garnished with fresh chopped parsley, showcasing plump, golden shrimp coated in a rich, spiced coconut sauce.

How to Make a Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe at Home

chef Laya

Print Recipes Pin Recipe

Prepr Time 15

Cooking Time 15

ToTal Time 30

Type of plate Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

kitchen American, australian

Serving 5

Ingrédients

1 pound 450g shrimp – peeled, deveined, and tails-on or tails-off as preferred.
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing.
3 cloves garlic – minced.
1 small red onion – finely chopped.
1 cup 240ml coconut milk – full-fat for extra creaminess.
1 teaspoon curry powder – adjust to taste.
1/2 teaspoon paprika – for a smoky flavor.
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes – optional for heat.
1 tablespoon lime juice – freshly squeezed.
1 teaspoon sugar – to balance the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon salt – or to taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground.
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro – chopped for garnish.
Lime wedges – for serving optional.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Peel and devein the shrimp, and pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside.
Finely chop the red onion and cilantro. Slice the lime into wedges for garnish.

Sauté the Shrimp:

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Cook the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of coconut milk to the skillet. Stir in 1 teaspoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix well to combine.
Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add the Shrimp:

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat the shrimp through.

Season and Finish:

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Serve:

Serve the creamy coconut shrimp over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside crusty bread.

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 23 g
Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Cholesterol: 190 mg
Sodium: 560 mg
Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
Calcium: 8% of the DV
Iron: 15% of the DV

Notes:

The values can vary based on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used.
If served with rice, noodles, or bread, those additions will increase the total calorie and carbohydrate count.
Using low-fat coconut milk can reduce fat and calorie content.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once your creamy coconut shrimp recipe is ready, it’s time to think about the best ways to serve and store this flavorful dish. With the right accompaniments, garnishes, and storage techniques, you can make the most out of this delightful recipe.

1. Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings for Creamy Coconut Shrimp

Steamed Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice is a classic choice that soaks up the rich creamy coconut shrimp sauce beautifully. The fragrant grains complement the tropical flavors perfectly.
Noodles: Serve the shrimp over rice noodles or egg noodles for a hearty, comforting meal. The noodles absorb the sauce, creating a satisfying bite every time.
Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, healthier option, pair the shrimp with quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both alternatives provide a nutty flavor that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Vegetable Sides to Complete the Meal

Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli add texture and color to the plate.
Steamed Greens: A side of steamed bok choy, spinach, or green beans introduces a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy dish.
Salads: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette or a tropical fruit salad with mango and pineapple pairs well with the shrimp’s richness.
you can add a potato bake recipe for the perfect main dinner

Garnishing Ideas for Extra Flavor

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the dish for a vibrant touch.
Add lime wedges on the side for a burst of zesty flavor to brighten each bite.
For heat lovers, garnish with sliced red chilies or a dash of chili flakes.

Presentation Tips

Serve the dish in a shallow bowl or plate, allowing the creamy sauce to pool around the shrimp.
For a rustic look, pair it with a loaf of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the sauce.

2. Storing Leftovers creamy coconut shrimp

Refrigeration

Leave the dish to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container.
Put in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat the creamy coconut shrimp gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce as needed.
Avoid using high heat, as it may overcook the shrimp and alter the sauce’s texture.

Freezing the Dish

If you plan to freeze, it’s best to store the sauce and shrimp separately.
Freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before adding freshly cooked shrimp.

3. Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to save time, you can prep certain elements of this dish in advance:

Marinate the Shrimp: Prepare and marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead. Store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Make the Sauce Base: Cook the coconut sauce without the shrimp and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and add freshly cooked shrimp.

With these serving suggestions and storage tips, you can enjoy the creamy coconut shrimp reecipe fresh, as leftovers, or even make it a day in advance for a stress-free meal. Ready to explore tips for customizing the dish to suit your taste? Let’s dive in!

Conclusion

This creamy coconut shrimp recipe is a celebration of bold tropical flavors and comforting creamy textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. From the perfectly cooked, tender shrimp to the rich and aromatic coconut milk sauce infused with garlic, lime, and spices, this recipe is a delight for seafood lovers and a perfect example to prove how simple ingredients can create something fantastic.

Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner, a highlight at a family gathering, or an elegant dish for entertaining, creamy coconut shrimp delivers both flavor and ease. The versatility of the dish allows you to pair it with various sides, like jasmine rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables, making it customizable for your preferences or dietary needs, for more information about shrimp recipe visit Serious Eats Shrimp Guide

Storing leftovers is equally simple, ensuring that you can enjoy the dish beyond the first serving. By following the storage and reheating tips, the shrimp and sauce retain their deliciousness, making them just as enjoyable the next day.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and bring this tropical-inspired dish to life in your kitchen. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to elevate your cooking repertoire with minimal effort.