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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
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.
Prepr Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 15 minutes
ToTal Time 30 minutes
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.