If you have a craving for a dish that bursts with tropical flavors and just the right amount of creamy richness, then this Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. It combines juicy shrimp with aromatic garlic, all nestled in a luscious coconut milk sauce that’s both comforting and refreshing. Preparing this dish is a wonderful way to bring a bit of sunshine and exotic flair into your kitchen, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan filled with cooked shrimp in a creamy light beige sauce. The shrimp are orange-pink with some char marks and are spread evenly in the sauce. The sauce has a smooth texture with small green herb pieces and black pepper specks sprinkled on top. The shrimp and sauce create a mix of warm, soft colors with light green garnish adding some contrast. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish unforgettable. From the bright zing of lime juice to the rich creaminess of coconut milk, every component comes together harmoniously.

1.1 pounds shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp provide the tender seafood star of the dish, absorbing all those wonderful flavors.
1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural taste of the shrimp.
1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness with a vibrant color to the shrimp.
1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances garlic flavor throughout, complementing the fresh garlic used later.
1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and rounds out the richness of the sauce.
1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil): Helps sear the shrimp perfectly without sticking.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic creates that aromatic punch that makes this recipe sing.
1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce once cooked down.
1 can (14 oz/400 ml) unsweetened coconut milk (full fat): The heart of the sauce, giving it a creamy, tropical flair.
2 tsp cornstarch: Works as a thickener to give the sauce a luscious consistency.
2 tbsp fish sauce: Brings umami depth and a subtle salty tang to balance the creaminess.
1 tsp honey: A touch of sweetness to harmonize flavors.
2 tbsp lime juice: Injects a bright, citrusy lift that cuts through the richness.
2 tbsp chopped cilantro: Fresh herbs for bursts of color and refreshing flavor.
Chili flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat when serving.
Freshly cracked black pepper: For an extra pop of spiciness at the end.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning mix ensures the shrimp are flavorful right from the start. Set this aside as you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Chop and Mince Aromatics

Getting the garlic minced and the yellow onion finely diced will pay off when you sauté them—they create that fragrant, savory base that defines the dish. Don’t forget to chop your cilantro too, as it will add a fresh final touch.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over high heat with olive oil and butter. When the pan is hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer and sear them for about 1 minute on each side, just until they turn pink and get a little bit of a crust. Then remove them from the skillet to keep them tender and ready for the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and toss the garlic and diced onion into the skillet. Let them sauté gently until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Pour in three-quarters of the coconut milk, then mix the remaining coconut milk with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the skillet to start thickening the sauce. Add fish sauce, honey, and lime juice next, simmering the sauce as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Herbs

As the sauce thickens, stir in the chopped cilantro and return the shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together so the shrimp get fully coated in that creamy, flavorful sauce, and simmer just a minute more to heat through. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the fish sauce and lime juice to your liking in teaspoon increments.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface, holding a dish of cooked white rice on the left side, garnished with small green herbs and black pepper flakes, giving it a light sprinkle of green and black color. On the right side, there are six grilled shrimp in a creamy white sauce that covers parts of the shrimp and the plate, with some small green herb pieces in the sauce. The shrimp are orange with a charred texture, showing grill marks and a slightly crispy look. A silver fork is placed on the right edge of the plate, with its prongs holding one shrimp. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really elevate your Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe, top it off with extra chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat, and freshly cracked black pepper. These garnishes add fresh color and complexity that make every bite pop with flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the luscious coconut milk sauce perfectly. You could also serve it alongside fluffy quinoa, garlic naan, or a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp nestled in a hollowed-out pineapple for a tropical presentation that will impress guests. Alternatively, place the shrimp and sauce over a bed of sautéed greens or ribbons of zucchini noodles for a lighter, veggie-forward version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your amazing Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills but simply reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Pop the cooled shrimp and sauce into a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Stir frequently and add a little liquid if the sauce becomes too thick. Avoid reheating in a microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve the best texture and flavor.

Is there a substitute for fish sauce?

If you’re not a fan of fish sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian alternative. Keep in mind the flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add more chili flakes while cooking or serve with sliced fresh chilies. You could also stir in a bit of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for extra kick.

What coconut milk should I use?

Full-fat unsweetened coconut milk works best here for that rich and creamy texture. Avoid light or flavored versions to keep the authenticity and balance of the dish.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Add the shrimp only when you’re ready to finish cooking to ensure they stay tender and perfectly cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe is such a joyful way to bring vibrant, comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining loved ones, this dish promises to become a fast favorite. Don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients, give it a try, and enjoy every delicious, creamy bite!