Creamy Garlic Prawns Recipe: The Ultimate Indulgence for Seafood Lovers
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If you’re someone who loves seafood and enjoys indulging in rich, flavorful dishes, then creamy garlic prawns are about to become your new best friend. This dish combines juicy, perfectly cooked prawns with a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce that tastes like a million bucks—yet takes mere minutes to whip up.
You know those moments when you want to create something special but don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen? Well, creamy garlic prawns are the answer to your prayers. This recipe is quick, fuss-free, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two, a family meal, or even a dinner party, this dish hits all the right notes.
And here’s the kicker—it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta, spoon it onto fluffy rice, or simply pair it with some crusty garlic bread to mop up all that delicious sauce.
Are you ready to create a meal that feels like fine dining but is surprisingly easy? Let’s get cooking!
Why Creamy Garlic Prawns Deserve a Spot on Your Menu
Still wondering why you should try this recipe? Here’s why creamy garlic prawns are so special:
- Quick to Make: This dish comes together in just 20–30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.
- Minimal Ingredients: No long shopping list here! Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find.
- Versatile: It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, vegetables, or bread, so you can serve it however you like.
- Restaurant-Quality: Creamy garlic prawns have that luxurious, fancy vibe—without the hefty price tag.
- Customizable: Want to add a little heat? Go for it. Prefer more veggies? Toss them in. This recipe is easy to tweak.
If you’re looking for a winning dish that’s as delicious as it is simple, you can’t go wrong with creamy garlic prawns.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
For the Prawns
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns – peeled and deveined, with tails on or off (whichever you prefer).
- Salt and pepper – to season the prawns.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – optional, for a hint of smokiness.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter – for rich flavor and to sear the prawns.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps balance the butter and prevents burning.
- 6 cloves garlic – minced (the more garlic, the better!).
- 1 cup heavy cream – the secret to a velvety, creamy sauce.
- ½ cup chicken stock – adds depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese – freshly grated for a cheesy, salty kick.
- Juice of ½ lemon – to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Red chili flakes (optional) – if you like a bit of heat.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley – finely chopped for a pop of color and freshness.
- Extra Parmesan – because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Garlic Prawns
Follow these simple steps to achieve creamy garlic prawns perfection:
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
- Start by patting the prawns dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them sear better.
- Season them lightly with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you’re using it. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Prawns
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil.
- Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add the prawns in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
- Let the prawns cook for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Overcooking prawns makes them rubbery, so watch closely.
- Remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Base
- In the same skillet, melt a little more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- If you’re feeling fancy, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol and add depth to the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a gentle simmer. This step builds the base of the sauce.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir frequently to prevent any burning or sticking.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and whisk it in until the sauce is smooth and velvety. The cheese not only thickens the sauce but also adds a delightful salty, nutty flavor.
Step 5: Combine the Prawns and Sauce
- Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, along with any juices they released. Toss them gently in the creamy sauce until they’re well-coated.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice and give the sauce a final taste. Adjust seasoning as needed—maybe a pinch of salt, some black pepper, or a dash of chili flakes for heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the creamy garlic prawns with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish.
- Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.
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How to Serve Creamy Garlic Prawns
Creamy garlic prawns are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Pasta: Toss the prawns and sauce with cooked fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti for a restaurant-style seafood pasta.
- Over Rice: Serve the prawns over fluffy white rice or creamy risotto to soak up every bit of sauce.
- With Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.
- With Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed asparagus, zucchini noodles, or sautéed spinach for a lighter meal.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Prawns
- Use Fresh Prawns: Fresh or high-quality frozen prawns make all the difference. Thaw frozen prawns completely before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Prawns cook quickly, so remove them as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. A little lemon juice or an extra pinch of salt can transform the dish.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor—skip the pre-minced stuff.
- Cheese Tip: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
Variations of Creamy Garlic Prawns
1. Spicy Creamy Garlic Prawns
If you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic prawns. The spicy kick complements the creamy sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor.
2. Lemon Herb Creamy Garlic Prawns
For a fresh twist, add more lemon juice and some lemon zest to the sauce. Incorporate herbs like dill or chives for a bright, zesty version of creamy garlic prawns.
3. Creamy Garlic Prawn Pasta
Transform the creamy garlic prawns into a hearty pasta dish. Simply toss the prawns and sauce with your favorite pasta, like linguine or fettuccine. Garnish with more Parmesan and parsley.
4. Low-Fat Creamy Garlic Prawns
For a lighter version, use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter and use a non-stick pan to sauté the garlic.
5. Dairy-Free Creamy Garlic Prawns
If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
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Health Benefits of Prawns
Creamy garlic prawns aren’t just delicious; they’re also nutritious. Here are some health benefits:
- High in Protein: Prawns are a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Low in Calories: Despite their richness, prawns are low in calories, making them a great choice for those watching their weight.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Prawns are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Prawns contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits.
Conclusion
There you have it—creamy garlic prawns that are rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
Whether served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this recipe brings restaurant-quality dining right into your home. So, go ahead, grab some prawns, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this luxurious, garlicky masterpiece. Trust me—you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Happy cooking!✨
Creamy Garlic Prawns Recipe
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Learn how to make creamy garlic prawns—a luscious, restaurant-quality dish—right at home in just 30 minutes! Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is simple yet irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns – peeled and deveined, with tails on or off (whichever you prefer).
- Salt and pepper – to season the prawns.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – optional, for a hint of smokiness.
- 2 tablespoons butter – for rich flavor and to sear the prawns.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps balance the butter and prevents burning.
- 6 cloves garlic – minced (the more garlic, the better!).
- 1 cup heavy cream – the secret to a velvety, creamy sauce.
- ½ cup chicken stock – adds depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese – freshly grated for a cheesy, salty kick.
- Juice of ½ lemon – to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Red chili flakes (optional) – if you like a bit of heat.
- Fresh parsley – finely chopped for a pop of color and freshness.
- Extra Parmesan – because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!
Instructions
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Garlic Prawns
Follow these simple steps to achieve creamy garlic prawns perfection:
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
● Start by patting the prawns dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them sear better.
● Season them lightly with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you’re using it. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Prawns
● Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil.
● Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add the prawns in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
● Let the prawns cook for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Overcooking prawns makes them rubbery, so watch closely.
● Remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Base
● In the same skillet, melt a little more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic can turn bitter.
● If you’re feeling fancy, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol and add depth to the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
● Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a gentle simmer. This step builds the base of the sauce.
● Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir frequently to prevent any burning or sticking.
● Add the Parmesan cheese and whisk it in until the sauce is smooth and velvety. The cheese not only thickens the sauce but also adds a delightful salty, nutty flavor.
Step 5: Combine the Prawns and Sauce
● Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, along with any juices they released. Toss them gently in the creamy sauce until they’re well-coated.
● Squeeze in the lemon juice and give the sauce a final taste. Adjust seasoning as needed—maybe a pinch of salt, some black pepper, or a dash of chili flakes for heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
● Sprinkle the creamy garlic prawns with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish.
● Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 501Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 22gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 114mgSodium 747mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 2gSugar 22gProtein 9g
FAQs About Creamy Garlic Prawns
1. Can I make this dish with frozen prawns?
Yes! Thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid watery sauce.
2. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus are great additions to the creamy sauce.
3. What’s the best type of cream to use?
Heavy cream (or double cream) works best. It won’t curdle and gives a rich, smooth texture.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store creamy garlic prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.