Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the exotic aroma of garlic and ginger wafted through the air, transporting me to a street market in Thailand where vibrant flavors burst from every dish. That’s when I decided to whip up my Creamy Coconut Shrimp, a quick one-skillet meal that effortlessly combines seafood with a rich coconut milk sauce. In just 20 minutes, you can serve up this delightful Thai-inspired feast that’s not only incredibly delicious but also minimizes cleanup—a total win for busy weeknights! Picture succulent shrimp simmered in a creamy, fragrant sauce, providing a satisfying dinner everyone will love. Are you ready to dive into this delicious escape with me? Why is Creamy Coconut Shrimp a Must-Try? Effortless Cooking: This one-skillet wonder is perfect for busy nights—everything comes together in just 20 minutes! Bold Thai Flavors: Infused with garlic, ginger, and fresh basil, every bite transports you to a vibrant Thai market. Creamy Goodness: The luscious coconut milk creates a velvety sauce that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Versatile Choice: Customize it! Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, and add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition. Crowd Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress without the fuss. Don’t forget to check out our Jiggly Japanese Cheesecake for a delightful dessert pairing! Creamy Coconut Shrimp Ingredients For the Sauce Olive Oil – Cooking fat for sautéing shrimp and vegetables; substitute with any neutral oil if desired. Coconut Milk – The creamy base of the sauce; use canned, unsweetened coconut milk for the best texture. Ground Ginger – Offers warmth and spice; fresh grated ginger can elevate the flavor even more. Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor. For the Shrimp Raw Shrimp – The star of the dish, bringing sweetness; use peeled, deveined shrimp for a quick cook. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; don’t skip these for that perfect taste. Smoked Paprika – Adds smokiness to the dish; can be swapped with regular paprika if you prefer less smoke. For the Vegetables Yellow Onion – The base flavor component, finely diced to ensure even cooking. Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and texture; ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Basil – Adds freshness; can substitute with cilantro or Thai basil for varied flavor profiles. For the Finishing Touch Lime Juice – Brightens the dish and enhances flavors; don’t skip this for a zesty finish! Cilantro – Optional garnish for added flavor; you can omit it or substitute with parsley if preferred. Dive into the deliciousness of Creamy Coconut Shrimp and savor the harmonious blend of flavors in every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Coconut Shrimp Step 1: Heat the Skillet Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough to cook the shrimp. This crucial first step helps to develop the base flavors for your Creamy Coconut Shrimp. Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp Season your peeled and deveined raw shrimp with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Cook the shrimp in the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside, ensuring they’re ready to be added back later. Step 3: Sauté the Onions In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and add finely diced yellow onion. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent and softened. This step lays a flavorful foundation for the creamy sauce that will envelop the shrimp. Step 4: Add Aromatics Stir in minced garlic, fresh basil, and ground ginger into the sautéed onions. Cook this aromatic mix for around 20 seconds until you can smell the enticing fragrances wafting through your kitchen. This infusing step brings forth the bold flavors characteristic of Thai cuisine. Step 5: Incorporate Diced Tomatoes Add drained diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the tomatoes to soften and meld with the aromatic mixture. This addition provides a delightful acidity that balances the rich coconut milk. Step 6: Create the Coconut Sauce Pour in the canned coconut milk and gently bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The coconut milk will infuse your Creamy Coconut Shrimp with a luscious, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. Step 7: Reintroduce the Shrimp Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the creamy mixture. Heat through for about 1 minute, ensuring that the shrimp are warmed but not overcooked. The shrimp should be tender and fully immersed in the sauce’s richness. Step 8: Finish with Lime and Garnish Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the creamy dish for a burst of brightness. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired for added flavor and freshness. This final touch elevates your Creamy Coconut Shrimp, making it not only delicious but visually appealing! What to Serve with Creamy Coconut Shrimp Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the rich, tropical flavors of this Thai-inspired dish. Jasmine Rice: The fragrant steam and slight sweetness of jasmine rice soak up the creamy coconut sauce perfectly, creating a satisfying bite. Cauliflower Rice: A healthier alternative, cauliflower rice provides a light, low-carb base while adding a subtle nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the shrimp. Baby Spinach Salad: Tossed in a light vinaigrette, the fresh crunch of spinach adds a refreshing green element and balances the creaminess of the shrimp. Teriyaki Noodles: These sweet, savory noodles introduce a delightful chewiness that pairs well with the soft shrimp and creamy sauce. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant create a smoky, robust side that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Thai Iced Tea: The creamy and sweet notes of this refreshing tea provide a perfect beverage pairing, complementing the spices and adding a cooling touch. Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these chewy, sweet treats echo the coconut flavor in the main dish and offer a perfect end to your meal escapade. Indulging in these accompaniments will transport your taste buds to a sun-kissed Thai street market! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Coconut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and cook the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the aromatic mixture of sautéed onions, garlic, basil, and ginger, refrigerating it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply rewarm the mixture in a skillet, add the coconut milk and pre-cooked shrimp, and simmer until everything is heated through. This approach ensures you have a delicious, Thai-inspired meal on the table in no time, saving precious minutes during busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Creamy Coconut Shrimp Season Generously: Make sure to properly season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance the dish’s flavor. Cook Quickly: Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should only be just pink and opaque. This keeps them tender, ensuring the best texture. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs to elevate the aroma and taste of your Creamy Coconut Shrimp. Add Veggies: Consider incorporating spinach or other vegetables like bell peppers for added nutrition and to balance the creaminess of the sauce. Simmer Steadily: Allow the coconut milk to simmer gently—this creates a rich, velvety sauce. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Coconut Shrimp Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This preserves the dish’s flavors while keeping it safe to eat. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the Creamy Coconut Shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Avoid Microwaving: Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may make the shrimp rubbery; a gentle stovetop method is best for keeping this dish delicious. Creamy Coconut Shrimp Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe; your kitchen is your playground, and there are endless possibilities to explore! Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein; both options will still soak up that creamy sauce beautifully. If using chicken, make sure to cook it thoroughly first. Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or baby spinach for a colorful and nutritious twist. These veggies add not just texture, but a delightful pop of color to the dish. Noodle Addition: Serve over warm, soft noodles like rice noodles or udon for a filling meal. The noodles will soak up the luscious sauce perfectly, making every bite enjoyable. Coconut Cream: For an even richer sauce, substitute half of the coconut milk with coconut cream. This will create an indulgent, velvety texture! Spice It Up: Kick up the heat with a dash of red pepper flakes or a sliced chili. Just remember, balance is key—start with a little and add more if desired. Herb Swap: If basil isn’t your favorite, try cilantro or even parsley for a fresh twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish. Tomato Choice: If fresh tomatoes are in season, swap out the canned diced tomatoes for juicy, chopped fresh ones. Their flavor will enhance the dish even further. Creamy Cauliflower Rice: Try serving it over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still delivers on flavor and texture, making it a fantastic healthy alternative. For dessert, consider whipping up some lovely Cornbread Muffins Moist to enjoy alongside your meal! Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe? When selecting shrimp, look for raw shrimp that are firm and have a fresh scent, with no signs of discoloration. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy smell. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined, then thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor. How should I store leftover Creamy Coconut Shrimp? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I recommend eating it as soon as possible to fully enjoy the flavors. When ready to reheat, just warm it gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Can I freeze Creamy Coconut Shrimp? Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove. This method helps maintain the best texture and flavor! What should I do if the shrimp turn rubbery during cooking? To prevent rubbery shrimp, be sure not to overcook them. They should only be cooked for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. If they do overcook, consider using them in soups or salads where the texture will be less noticeable. Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Coconut Shrimp? Yes! Adding veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them in the skillet after the onions have softened. This adds a lovely crunch and makes the dish even more colorful! Is this recipe safe for those with seafood allergies? This recipe contains shrimp, so it is not suitable for individuals with seafood allergies. However, you can adapt it by substituting shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even beans, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy a creamy and delicious meal. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins. Remember, your journey in the kitchen is all about experimentation—don’t hesitate to make it your own! Delight in Creamy Coconut Shrimp: Easy Thai-Inspired Comfort Experience the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with this easy Creamy Coconut Shrimp recipe, combining succulent shrimp in a rich coconut milk sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ThaiCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce1 tablespoon Olive Oil Cooking fat for sautéing shrimp and vegetables; substitute with any neutral oil if desired.1 can Coconut Milk Use canned, unsweetened coconut milk for the best texture.1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Fresh grated ginger can elevate the flavor even more.2 cloves Garlic Use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor.For the Shrimp1 pound Raw Shrimp Use peeled, deveined shrimp for a quick cook.1 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning to enhance flavor.1 teaspoon Pepper Essential seasoning to enhance flavor.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can be swapped with regular paprika if you prefer less smoke.For the Vegetables1 medium Yellow Onion Finely diced.1 cup Diced Tomatoes Ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.1 cup Basil Can substitute with cilantro or Thai basil for varied flavor profiles.For the Finishing Touch2 tablespoons Lime Juice Don’t skip this for a zesty finish!2 tablespoons Cilantro Optional garnish; can be omitted or substituted with parsley. Equipment Large Skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Coconut ShrimpHeat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque, then remove and set aside.In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the diced yellow onion for about 3 minutes until translucent.Stir in minced garlic, basil, and ground ginger, and cook for around 20 seconds until fragrant.Add drained diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.Pour in canned coconut milk and gently bring to a simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes.Reintroduce the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce. Heat through for 1 minute.Before serving, squeeze lime juice over the dish and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg NotesFor best results, use fresh ingredients and season generously. Avoid overcooking shrimp for the best texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
