If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and flavorful seafood dishes, this creamy coconut shrimp recipe is a must-try! With tender shrimp coated in a luscious coconut sauce, it’s a dish that brings a taste of the tropics straight to your kitchen. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
The combination of creamy coconut milk, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice creates a perfect balance of flavors. The shrimp stay juicy and tender, while the sauce delivers a silky smooth texture that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a unique dish to impress your family, this recipe will not disappoint!
Recipe Card
Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe
Course: LunchCuisine: Other world cuisineDifficulty: easy4
servings10
minutes15
minutes320
kcalA rich and flavorful creamy coconut shrimp recipe made with tender shrimp in a silky coconut sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
- For the Creamy Coconut Sauce
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ small onion, finely chopped
1 cup (240ml) full-fat coconut milk
½ cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp soy sauce or fish sauce (optional)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
½ tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and onion, sautéing for 1-2 minutes. Pour in coconut milk and broth. Stir in soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine: Return shrimp to the pan, stirring to coat. Simmer for 2 minutes until heated through. Add lime juice.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Notes
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
This creamy coconut shrimp recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers. It combines the delicate sweetness of coconut milk with a savory garlic and spice-infused sauce, making it irresistibly rich and flavorful. But what makes this dish truly special? Let’s break it down!
1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The coconut milk provides a smooth and slightly sweet base, while garlic, onion, and spices add a depth of flavor that keeps the dish from being overly rich. A touch of lime or lemon juice brings brightness, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the taste.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
With a total cook time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Shrimp cook in just a few minutes, and the sauce comes together quickly in one pan. Minimal effort, maximum flavor!
3. Customizable to Your Taste
- Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili.
- Prefer a tangier taste? Increase the lime juice.
- Need a dairy-free and gluten-free meal? This recipe naturally fits those dietary needs.
- Looking for more protein? Add extra shrimp or even mix in chicken for a variation.
4. Pairs Well with Many Sides
This creamy coconut shrimp works beautifully with white rice, jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or even over noodles. If you’re a fan of crunchy textures, serving it with a side of crispy vegetables will add a wonderful contrast.
With its rich yet light texture, simple preparation, and customizable ingredients, this dish is one you’ll keep coming back to!
Variants of the Recipe
This creamy coconut shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
1. Spicy Coconut Shrimp
If you love bold flavors, turn up the heat! Add 1 finely chopped chili pepper (like Thai bird’s eye chili) or an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes. A dash of Sriracha or hot sauce will also do the trick.
2. Garlic Butter Coconut Shrimp
For a richer, buttery version, increase the butter to 2 tablespoons and add an extra clove of garlic. This version enhances the savory depth while keeping the coconut creaminess.
3. Creamy Coconut Curry Shrimp
Transform this dish into a mild curry by stirring in 1 teaspoon of curry powder or Thai red curry paste. This adds an aromatic depth and pairs beautifully with rice or naan bread.
4. Coconut Shrimp with Vegetables
Boost the nutrition by adding colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them before adding the coconut milk for the best texture.
5. Keto and Low-Carb Version
Skip the honey and serve this over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that keeps all the creamy goodness.
6. Creamy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple
For a tropical twist, add ½ cup of diced pineapple to the sauce. The natural sweetness balances the spice and adds a fruity touch.
FAQs
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water from thinning out the sauce.
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce. You can also stir in ½ teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to help thicken it quickly.
If you don’t have coconut milk, try heavy cream for a rich alternative, or use almond milk for a lighter option. Keep in mind that the coconut flavor will be less pronounced.
Simply skip the butter and use extra olive oil or coconut oil instead. The recipe is naturally dairy-free otherwise!
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. If using a microwave, heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can use chicken, tofu, or even scallops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, chicken will need a bit longer to cook through.
Final Thoughts
This creamy coconut shrimp recipe is a simple yet luxurious dish that brings bold, tropical flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. The creamy coconut sauce perfectly complements the tender shrimp, creating a meal that’s both comforting and restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re preparing this for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, its rich taste and versatility make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
If you’re a seafood lover, you might also enjoy this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe for a crispy, spicy twist on shrimp. Pairing this dish with rice? Learn how to get the fluffiest, most flavorful grains with this Instant Pot Jasmine Rice Recipe. And if you’re in the mood for another indulgent, creamy dish, try this Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Recipe for a seafood feast!
I’d love to hear how this dish turned out for you! Did you add any personal twists? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us if you share your meal on social media. Happy cooking!
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