Introduction
Have you ever wondered how a simple seafood dish can transform into a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal in under 20 minutes? Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) answer that question with elegance and bold flavor. This dish brings together the delicate sweetness of premium prawns with a velvety garlic-infused sauce that’s rich without being heavy. While shrimp have been enjoyed across coastal cultures for centuries, this modern take on Creamy Garlic Prawns blends European sauce techniques with globally inspired flavors, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
Originating from Mediterranean coastal regions where fresh seafood meets creamy French-style sauces, this dish has evolved into a global comfort favorite. Whether served over pasta in Italy, with rice in Southeast Asia, or alongside mashed potatoes in American homes, Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) adapt beautifully to local tastes while maintaining their signature richness.
For those curious about the health benefits of shrimp and the science behind deglazing techniques, check out this comprehensive nutrition guide from Healthline: Is Shrimp Healthy?. You might also enjoy exploring deglazing methods with wine at this insightful Reddit discussion: Deglazing with Wine Technique? : r/AskCulinary. And for more savory seafood inspiration, don’t miss our Seared Ahi Tuna Recipe and Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and Shrimp dishes.
Why It Matters
Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) represent more than just a delicious meal—they showcase the art of elevating simple ingredients through technique and balance. Historically, garlic and seafood pairings date back to ancient Roman and Greek cuisines, where fishermen seasoned their catch with available herbs and aromatics. Over time, European culinary traditions refined these combinations, introducing butter-based sauces and later cream enrichments during the Renaissance era.
Today’s version of Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) reflects a fusion of these time-honored methods with modern convenience. The dish celebrates sustainability by using quick-cooking proteins that require minimal energy to prepare compared to heavier meats. It also demonstrates how global pantries have expanded—once-exotic ingredients like Parmesan and heavy cream are now accessible worldwide, allowing home cooks to recreate gourmet experiences effortlessly.
Ingredients
CREAMY GARLIC PRAWNS (SHRIMP) Ingredients
Ingredient Spotlight
Each component in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture:
- Prawns/Shrimp: Large or jumbo varieties hold up best during cooking, offering a meaty bite and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with rich sauces
- Garlic: Provides aromatic depth; when sautéed gently, it sweetens and infuses the entire dish
- Heavy Cream: Creates silkiness and body while mellowing sharp garlic notes
- Parmesan: Adds umami richness and helps thicken the sauce naturally
- Chicken/vegetable stock: Builds savory foundation without overpowering delicate seafood
Complete Ingredient List
Garlic Marinated Prawns:
- 500g / 1lb peeled prawns/shrimp (large/jumbo preferred)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Cooking Prawns:
- 15g / 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 15g / 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup dry white wine (substitute with extra stock + splash lemon juice)
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable stock/broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy/thickened cream
- ½ cup parmesan, finely grated
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Substitution Ideas: Use coconut cream for dairy-free richness, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for vegan versions, or double the stock with a splash of apple cider vinegar if avoiding alcohol entirely.
Timing
Total time: 17 minutes (5 minutes prep + 12 minutes cooking)
This recipe is approximately 20% faster than similar cream-based seafood dishes thanks to the quick-cooking nature of prawns and efficient stovetop method. Most competing recipes require longer reductions or oven time, making this an ideal choice for busy evenings when flavor can’t be compromised.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Marinate the Prawns
Toss prawns with minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Let sit for 20 minutes at room temperature to absorb flavors. Just before cooking, stir in salt to enhance seasoning without drawing out moisture too early.
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Cook the Prawns
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter until shimmering but not browned. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear marinated prawns for exactly 1 minute per side—they should turn pink and curl slightly. Transfer immediately to a plate to prevent overcooking.
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Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Sauté fresh minced garlic for 30 seconds only—do not let it darken as it will turn bitter. Pour in white wine (or substitute), scraping up browned bits from the bottom using a wooden spoon; simmer until liquid has fully evaporated.
-
Develop Depth
Add stock/broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat slightly and simmer until volume decreases by about one-third—this concentrates flavor without diluting final texture.
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Create the Cream Base
Stir in heavy cream smoothly; allow it to heat through on medium-low for exactly 2 minutes—do not boil aggressively as this may cause curdling. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan until melted into a smooth emulsion.
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Finish the Dish
Return cooked prawns along with any resting juices back into the skillet with sauce. Gently toss everything together over low heat just long enough to reheat prawns (~60 seconds). Adjust seasoning if needed with additional salt or pepper.
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Serve Immediately
Sprinkle chopped parsley over top right before plating—it adds freshness both visually and flavor-wise—and serve hot alongside your choice of accompaniment.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcook prawns: They continue cooking slightly after removal from heat; undercooking by mere seconds prevents rubbery texture
- Use cold butter: Adding cold butter at the end creates extra shine but ensure it’s incorporated slowly off direct flame
- Freshly grate cheese: Pre-grated versions contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt quality
- Dry seafood thoroughly: Pat prawns dry before marinating so spices adhere better
- Lemon zest boost: A pinch added at serving elevates brightness without acidity dominance
Variations & Substitutions
- Keto-friendly: Replace stock entirely with additional cream plus keto-approved seasoning blend
- Dairy-free: Use olive oil instead of butter; substitute coconut milk + cashew cream blend for dairy elements
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes during garlic sauté stage—or drizzle sriracha-infused oil before serving
- Pasta integration: Toss finished dish directly onto fettuccine or linguine adding reserved pasta water if needed
Behind the Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe was inspired by coastal European bistros where simplicity meets indulgence on every plate. The goal was to create something accessible yet refined—a dish that feels special without demanding professional skills or rare ingredients. By focusing on timing precision rather than complexity, this version delivers consistent results whether you’re cooking after work on Tuesday or entertaining guests on Saturday night.
Pairing Ideas
Serve Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) over garlic mashed potatoes for comfort appeal—or opt for steamed jasmine rice to let flavors shine cleanly.
For beverages:
- Cucumber-mint infused sparkling water
- Virgin tomato basil spritzer
- Ginger-lemon iced tea
Leftover Ideas
Transform leftovers creatively:
- Mix cooled remnants into omelets next morning
- Blend excess sauce base (minus seafood) into soups as enricher
- Top baked potatoes with warmed prawn mixture + extra herbs
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: ~28g
- Fat: ~26g
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Sodium depends on broth choice
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve in warm shallow bowls garnished with microgreens or edible flowers alongside rustic bread for dipping leftover sauce elegantly.
Mistakes To Avoid
- Over-marinating: Acidic components aren’t used here but extended salt contact still affects texture negatively beyond recommended time
- Rushing reductions: Skipping proper stock reduction leads thin sauces lacking depth
- High boil after adding dairy: Can split cream causing grainy mouthfeel instead velvety finish
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled portions within airtight containers up to two days maximum due perishable nature seafood component carries.
To reheat safely:
- Gentle stovetop warming preferred using splash extra stock avoid drying out
- If microwaving cover dish loosely stir halfway point evenly distribute heat exposure
FAQs
- Can I make Creamy Garlic Prawns ahead?
Best prepared fresh due delicate protein however components like pre-made refrigerated sauce base can save prep time assembly day-of cooking - What size shrimp works best?
Large jumbo grades recommended—they maintain tenderness better medium varieties prone becoming tough quicker - Is there non-alcoholic alternative wine?
Yes use equal parts additional broth combined teaspoon apple cider vinegar maintain acidity balance needed deglazing step - How do know when prawn done correct?
Look color change opaque pink firm curl shape avoid gray translucent centers indicate undercooked risky consume raw centers - Can freeze leftovers safely?
Not advised cream sauces often separate upon thawing affecting overall quality experience best enjoy immediately refrigerate short-term max two days
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) deliver restaurant elegance in home kitchens everywhere combining premium ingredients smart technique seamless execution path incredible results every single time.
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Best Easy Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate Prawns: Place prawns, garlic, oil and pepper in a bowl. Toss to coat, set aside 20 minutes. Stir through salt just prior to cooking.
- Cook Prawns: Melt butter in skillet over medium high heat. Cook prawns in batches for 1 minute per side, then remove.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Melt butter in skillet, cook garlic 30 seconds. Add wine, simmer until evaporated. Add stock and reduce. Stir in cream and simmer 2 minutes. Add parmesan.
- Finish Dish: Return prawns to sauce. Season, sprinkle with parsley. Serve with mashed potato or rice.