Love shrimp but tired of the same old scampi? Let me introduce you to your next favorite: Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk. This dish is rich, fragrant, and unexpectedly quick to pull off—a tropical twist on comfort food that’s as impressive on a date night as it is on a random Tuesday.

Imagine tender shrimp coated in a golden garlic butter, simmered in creamy coconut milk and speckled with herbs. It tastes indulgent, but it’s light enough to keep you coming back for more spoonfuls. Whether served with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, it delivers warm, satisfying flavor with just the right touch of exotic.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk, the right tools can really elevate your cooking process:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is your main player. It needs to be wide and heavy enough to hold heat and let the shrimp cook evenly in a single layer.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the garlic and herbs without scratching your pan. The flexibility helps coat everything evenly.
Sharp Knife: You’ll need this to finely mince garlic and chop fresh herbs, which are crucial for layering in flavor.
Mixing Bowl: To season the shrimp beforehand and allow the flavors to settle in.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for nailing the coconut milk-to-shrimp ratio and balancing spices.

Every one of these tools helps maximize the flavor and texture of this dish, from searing to simmering.

Ingredients for the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building deep flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Shrimp (peeled and deveined): The hero of the dish. Choose large, fresh shrimp for maximum juiciness.
Garlic (minced): This adds a warm, robust aroma and acts as the flavor backbone.
Butter: Helps to sear the shrimp and infuses the base with richness.
Olive Oil: Used with butter to prevent burning and deepen the overall taste.
Coconut Milk (full-fat): Adds creaminess and that signature tropical flavor that sets this dish apart.
Lime Juice: For acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the coconut milk.
Chili Flakes: Adds just a whisper of heat and contrast.
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Introduces a fresh, herbal note that complements the creamy base.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.

How To Make the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Toss the cleaned shrimp with salt, pepper, and a dash of chili flakes in a mixing bowl. Let it sit while prepping the garlic and herbs.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat butter and olive oil in your skillet over medium-high. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until just opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan, lower the heat and add a little more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until golden and fragrant, but not browned.

Step 4: Add Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add a squeeze of lime juice and sprinkle with chopped herbs. Simmer for 2 more minutes to coat the shrimp in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with your choice of rice, noodles, or warm crusty bread to soak up all the coconut-garlic goodness.

How to Serve and Store Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

This dish shines best when served warm and fresh out of the skillet. Pour it over a bed of jasmine rice or nestle it next to some buttered noodles. If you’re in the mood for something rustic, a slice of crusty sourdough will soak up that coconut-rich sauce beautifully.

For storing, let the shrimp cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Coconut milk can separate when microwaved, so a slow reheat is your best bet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild with a touch of warmth from chili flakes. If you’re sensitive to spice, simply reduce or omit them. Want more heat? Add a sliced chili or a bit of cayenne.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. This ensures they sear nicely without releasing too much water.

What kind of coconut milk should I use?

Full-fat canned coconut milk gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid using light versions or coconut milk beverages from cartons.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prep the shrimp and garlic in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Is this dish dairy-free?

It can be! Simply swap the butter for more olive oil or a plant-based butter to keep everything dairy-free while still rich and delicious.

What herbs pair best with this recipe?

Fresh parsley and cilantro are top choices. You can also try a touch of Thai basil or mint for a more aromatic profile.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you’re hooked on the flavor combo of shrimp and creaminess, here are a few other seafood recipes worth checking out:

You might enjoy the Louisiana Seafood Gumbo for something heartier and deeply spiced. Or if you prefer a baked option, the Easy Seafood Casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with mixed seafood.

The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa offers a fresher, grilled profile with bold contrast. For pasta lovers, don’t skip the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna—it’s layered with flavor and feels like a restaurant dish at home.

And if you’re in the mood for a cozy bowl, the Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup also plays with coconut and savory richness, similar to today’s recipe.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you go extra garlicky? Did you swap in cilantro or basil? Leave a comment below. I always enjoy hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Want more coconut-rich dishes and tropical twists? Visit my Pinterest at LadyPlate on Pinterest where I post new meal ideas daily.