Creamy Garlic Prawns are one of those dishes that feel luxurious yet are incredibly simple to make. The moment the garlic hits the hot pan and releases its aroma, you know something special is coming together.
I first made this recipe on a cool evening when I wanted something indulgent but not too heavy. The prawns, bathed in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce, were just what I needed.
This dish stands out because of its simplicity—fresh prawns, a handful of ingredients, and a few minutes of cooking time. The secret is in the balance: the garlic is bold without being overpowering, the cream adds just the right amount of richness, and the prawns are perfectly tender, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Served alongside Garlic Bread and a cold glass of Iced Tea, this meal feels like a little escape, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special treat for guests.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- The garlic cream sauce is rich and flavorful, yet it doesn’t overwhelm the prawns’ delicate taste.
- It feels fancy without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Creamy Garlic Prawns Recipe
Ingredients
For the Garlic-Marinated Prawns:
- 500 g / 1 lb large/jumbo Prawns or shrimp peeled (Note 1)
- 1 Garlic clove finely minced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- ½ tsp Back pepper
- ½ tsp Salt
For Cooking the Prawns:
- 15 g / 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 Garlic cloves finely minced
- 15 g / 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
- ¼ cup dry White wine or more chicken stock (Note 2)
- ½ cup Chicken or vegetable stock/broth low sodium
- 1 cup Heavy or thickened cream
- ½ cup Parmesan finely grated (grate your own for best results, Note 3)
- 2 tbsp Parsley finely chopped
Instructions
Marinate the Prawns:
- In a bowl, toss the prawns with minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper until well coated. Let them marinate for about 20 minutes if you have the time. Just before cooking, stir in the salt.
Cook the Prawns:
- Melt 15g / 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the prawns and cook for 1 minute on each side, then remove them from the skillet. Repeat with the remaining prawns (you shouldn’t need more butter), then set them aside. Scrape out any remaining garlic from the skillet and add it to the cooked prawns.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, or until it’s light golden.
- Pour in the white wine and turn up the heat to high. Bring it to a simmer, stirring the bottom of the pan to dissolve all the flavorful golden bits into the sauce. Cook for about 1 minute, or until most of the wine evaporates and the winey smell is gone.
- Add the chicken stock and let it reduce until mostly evaporated, leaving just a thin layer on the bottom of the skillet.
- Pour in the cream and let it simmer on medium heat for about 2 minutes, until it’s slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated parmesan, then return the prawns to the skillet. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
- Sprinkle the prawns with chopped parsley and serve them over mashed potatoes or anything that will soak up that incredible sauce!
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, gently mix to avoid a dense texture, especially in meatloaf or burgers.
- Deglaze for Flavor: After cooking meat, deglaze the pan with wine or broth to capture those delicious browned bits for a richer sauce.
- Rest Before Serving: Let cooked meats rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain their juices and ensure maximum flavor.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 488 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 34g |
| Fat | 37g |
| Cholesterol | 425mg |
| Sodium | 1499mg |
| Calcium | 374mg |
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Garlic Prawns
Can I Use Frozen Prawns for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.
How Do I Prevent the Prawns from Becoming Tough?
To prevent the prawns from becoming tough, cook them only until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
Can I Substitute the Cream with a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream if you prefer a lighter sauce. However, the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Garlic Prawns?
Creamy Garlic Prawns pair well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. They’re also delicious with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.