Creamy Garlic Prawns is a luxurious dish that’s quick to prepare yet full of flavor. Juicy prawns are cooked in a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner. Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.
- Rich, creamy, and bursting with garlic flavor.
- Perfect for entertaining or a comforting meal.
- Versatile—pair it with rice, pasta, or fresh bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Large prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream
- Chicken or seafood stock
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Directions
- Prepare the Prawns: Pat the prawns dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Prawns: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the prawns and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt a little more butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create the Creamy Base: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and chicken or seafood stock. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Add Parmesan and Lemon: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the prawns to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Prawns: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk for a lighter sauce.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add extra Parmesan or try Gruyère for added richness.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh thyme, dill, or chives for a burst of herbaceous aroma.
- Vegetable Additions: Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or stock to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes, thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan cheese.
3. What can I serve with creamy garlic prawns?
Serve over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread. A fresh green salad makes a great side.
4. How do I thicken the sauce if needed?
Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
5. Can I substitute prawns with another protein?
Yes, scallops, chicken, or tofu can be used instead of prawns. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
6. How do I ensure the prawns don’t overcook?
Cook them only until pink and opaque. Overcooked prawns become rubbery.
7. Can I use pre-cooked prawns?
Yes, add them to the sauce at the end, just to heat through.
8. Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
Parmesan adds depth to the sauce, but you can omit it or use a dairy-free alternative.
9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and cook the prawns just before serving.
10. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic flavors.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Prawns is a decadent yet simple dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. With its rich sauce and tender prawns, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your home. Try it today and savor the creamy, garlicky goodness!
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Creamy Garlic Prawns Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Description
Creamy garlic prawns are a decadent and flavorful dish featuring succulent prawns in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect as a main course or served over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (500g) raw prawns/shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Prawns:
- Pat the prawns dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the Prawns:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and melt. Sauté the prawns for 1–2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, stirring to scrape up any bits from the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Prawns:
- Return the prawns to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and paprika (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the prawns to warm through and absorb the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.
Notes
- For added spice, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- To make it dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil and cream with coconut milk.