Name: Creamy Coconut Shrimp Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 red bell peppers, sliced thinly; 4 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated); 4 cloves garlic, minced; One handful cilantro (or substitute parsley), finely chopped; Juice of one lime; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained; 14 ounce coconut milk (preferably full fat); 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste); 2 tablespoons red curry paste; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 56 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with tropical flavors yet comforting and indulgent, this Creamy Coconut Shrimp Dinner Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp swimming in a luscious coconut and red curry sauce, complemented by sweet red peppers and fresh herbs. It’s rich, vibrant, and perfectly balanced with just the right kick of spice. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite that’s as exciting to eat as it is simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of several fresh ingredients on a white marbled surface. There is a white bowl filled with cooked shrimp, pink and white with orange tails, positioned near the top left. Below it is a white bowl containing chunky red tomato pieces in sauce. To the right of these bowls is a small white bowl with finely chopped green herbs. Next to it are two whole shiny red bell peppers and a halved lime showing its green inside. A few garlic cloves are placed near the lime. On the left side, there are green onions with long green stalks and white ends. Small silver containers hold olive oil and a mix of salt and pepper. A tiny wooden container has red pepper flakes. At the bottom center is an empty white bowl. The ingredients are neatly arranged and well-lit. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the sweetness of red bell peppers to the creaminess of coconut milk, every element contributes to an unforgettable dish.

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil: A gentle base for sautéing that adds a subtle fruity richness.
2 red bell peppers sliced thinly: Adds a vibrant crunch and natural sweetness that brightens the dish.
4 scallions thinly sliced, white and green parts separated: The whites add savory depth in cooking, while the greens finish with fresh, zesty notes.
4 cloves garlic minced: Provides an aromatic punch that enhances every other flavor.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more to taste): Offers a gentle heat to balance out the creaminess.
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes drained: Brings acidity and a subtle sweetness that enrich the sauce.
14 ounces full-fat coconut milk: Essential for giving the dinner its signature creamy texture and tropical flair.
2 tablespoons red curry paste: Infuses the dish with bold, fragrant spice and depth.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a salty umami boost that rounds out the flavors.
One handful cilantro (or parsley), finely chopped: Lends a fresh herbal brightness and vibrant color.
1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp peeled and deveined: The star protein, delivering a succulent seafood taste.
Juice of one lime: Adds zesty acidity to brighten the entire dish before serving.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all ingredients together perfectly.

How to Make Creamy Coconut Shrimp Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced red bell peppers and sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their natural sweetness. Next, add the white parts of the scallions, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for another minute to awaken those wonderful aromas that make the base of your creamy coconut shrimp dinner recipe so enticing.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Now it’s time to add the drained diced tomatoes, full-fat coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, and cilantro to the skillet. Stir everything well and let the mixture simmer uncovered on low heat for roughly 10 minutes. This simmering step lets the sauce thicken slightly and allows all the flavors to meld into a rich, harmonious blend that’s the heart of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Gently add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and tender—be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery. Once cooked, squeeze in the juice of one lime and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This final touch of lime juice adds a fresh balance to the creamy, spicy sauce that will have you swooning.

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Shrimp Dinner Recipe

A white bowl filled with a rich red-orange soup that has many pieces of shrimp and long thin slices of red bell pepper spread through the surface. The soup is thick and glossy with visible small bits of other ingredients mixed in. There is a wooden spoon partially visible on the right side inside the soup. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To finish off this gorgeous dish, sprinkle the remaining green parts of the scallions on top along with additional chopped cilantro or parsley if you like a fresh herbal lift. These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also introduce a brightness that makes every bite delightful.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Coconut Shrimp Dinner Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple brown rice or fluffy quinoa. Both sides absorb the luscious sauce beautifully, making every mouthful satisfying. For an extra touch, you might also serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to add a textural contrast and vibrant green to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests or family, serve the shrimp and sauce inside hollowed-out bell peppers or over a bed of lightly toasted coconut rice. You could also transform this into a bowl meal by adding fresh avocado slices, pickled red onions, or a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo for a fusion twist. The key is to highlight that creamy coconut charm while having fun with presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making subsequent meals just as delicious, if not better, than the first helping.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to one month. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Keep in mind that the texture of shrimp might change slightly after freezing, so it’s best to freeze the sauce and shrimp together to maintain flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of coconut milk or water can help refresh the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work perfectly. Just thaw them completely before adding to the skillet to ensure even cooking and the best texture in your creamy coconut shrimp dinner recipe.

Is this dish very spicy?

Not at all, unless you add extra crushed red pepper flakes. The heat is mild and balanced by the creamy coconut milk, making it approachable for those sensitive to spice. You can always adjust the spice level to your liking.

What if I don’t have red curry paste?

If you don’t have red curry paste, you can substitute with a mild curry powder and a pinch of paprika. The flavor will be different but still delicious, delivering that warm, aromatic quality to the sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! This entire recipe is naturally dairy-free due to the creamy coconut milk base, making it a fantastic option for those avoiding dairy or following vegan principles if shrimp is replaced with a vegan protein.

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

The key is not to overcook the shrimp. Add them to the simmering sauce and cook only until they turn opaque, usually 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat right away to maintain that tender, juicy bite.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got this fantastic Creamy Coconut Shrimp Dinner Recipe at your fingertips, I can’t wait for you to experience its perfect blend of textures and tropical flavors. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together quickly, making dinner time feel like a mini getaway. Give it a try and watch how it brightens your table and atmosphere—this meal is sure to become one you reach for again and again!