One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp
Nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of curry, especially when it’s as easy to make as this One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp. Packed with flavor and just the right amount of spice, this dish comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply want to treat yourself to a delicious meal without the fuss. With the rich creaminess of coconut milk and the delightful tenderness of shrimp, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again. Let’s dive into the details that will make this dish a staple in your kitchen.
Why One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp is Worth Your Time

This One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s made in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Second, the flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Third, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, quinoa, or even with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate seafood into your diet while enjoying a tropical twist.
What to Buy
When making One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients to ensure optimal flavor. Here’s what you need:
- 1 pound raw shrimp, cleaned and deveined
- 2 tablespoons pure butter, room temperature, divided
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon curry powder, yellow for mild or red for bold
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 13 1/2 ounces coconut milk, can, unsweetened
- 1 teaspoon coconut palm sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, about half a lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Setup & Equipment
Before diving into the cooking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking everything in one pot.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and sautéing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping onions, garlic, and ginger.
The Method for One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp

Now that you’re prepped and ready, follow these simple steps to create your One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In your large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Season the Base
Sprinkle in the sea salt, black pepper, and curry powder. Stir well to coat the onions in the spices, allowing them to bloom and release their aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Add the Flour
To help thicken the curry, sprinkle in the tablespoon of flour and stir continuously for about a minute, ensuring that it’s well combined with the aromatics.
Step 4: Pour in the Coconut Milk
Slowly pour in the can of coconut milk, whisking it into the mixture to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Incorporate the Shrimp
Add the cleaned and deveined shrimp to the pot. Stir to coat the shrimp in the curry sauce, and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Add the coconut palm sugar and lime juice, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top your One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve it warm over rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

This One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp is versatile and allows for seasonal swaps. Here are a few suggestions:
- Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Proteins: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a different protein option.
- Herbs: If you can’t find cilantro, parsley works as a great alternative.
- Curry Variations: Experiment with different curry powders or even homemade curry paste for unique flavors.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
To ensure your One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp turns out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Skipping the sauté: Don’t rush the sautéing step; it builds the foundational flavors of the dish.
- Using low-quality coconut milk: Opt for full-fat, unsweetened coconut milk for a creamier, richer sauce.
- Not tasting: Always taste your dish before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
Storage Pro Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), here are some tips for storing your One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp:
Let the curry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the shrimp’s texture and the sauce’s creaminess. If the curry thickens too much upon cooling, add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen it up when reheating.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the pot to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, quinoa, or naan bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas, and use plant-based butter for a vegan version of this One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can vary based on the type of curry powder you use. Yellow curry powder is milder, while red curry powder offers a bolder flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your taste!
Save & Share
If you enjoyed this One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp recipe, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with friends and family, or save it for your next dinner party. It’s sure to impress, and who knows? It might just become their new favorite dish too.
This One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp is not only a breeze to prepare but also a delightful culinary experience that transports you straight to the tropics with every bite. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s a dish that captures the essence of home cooking while being incredibly satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your home. Enjoy the flavors, the ease, and the joy of cooking this delicious meal!

One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the sea salt, black pepper, and curry powder. Stir well to coat the onions in the spices, allowing them to bloom and release their aromatic flavors.
- To help thicken the curry, sprinkle in the tablespoon of flour and stir continuously for about a minute, ensuring that it’s well combined with the aromatics.
- Slowly pour in the can of coconut milk, whisking it into the mixture to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the cleaned and deveined shrimp to the pot. Stir to coat the shrimp in the curry sauce, and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add the coconut palm sugar and lime juice, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
- Top your One-Pot Coconut Curry Shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve it warm over rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Let the curry cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain texture.
