If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and silky textures, you’ve just found your new obsession. This Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe brings together succulent prawns, a gently spiced garlic-kissed cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in one irresistible plate. It’s comfort food elevated with just the right amount of heat and zest, making each bite a joyful experience you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious dish that’s flavorful and satisfying. From the rich cream to the fiery chili flakes and fresh herbs, every item contributes to the vibrant taste, texture, and color that make this pasta truly special.
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine: Choose your favorite pasta shape; it provides the perfect canvas for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- 1 pound raw prawns, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, these are the star protein that adds a tender, briny bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a fruity, aromatic base that helps sauté the prawns and garlic evenly.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauté, blending beautifully with olive oil.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the heart of this dish, giving it that irresistible, savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Provides a warm, vibrant heat—adjust to your spice preference.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and color to the prawns as they cook.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight and balance all the flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, sharp flavor that enriches the sauce wonderfully.
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water: Its starchiness helps bind the sauce to the pasta perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy contrast that lifts the dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Finishing touch that adds freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta to perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package directions. Aim for al dente so your noodles have a little bite, perfect for soaking up the sauce. Don’t forget to scoop out and reserve ¼ cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—this little helper is key to getting your sauce just right.
Step 2: Sauté the prawns
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat—this combo will deliver a fragrant, golden base. Season your raw prawns with salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika, then add them to the skillet. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque. Once done, set them aside to keep the flavors locked in and prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Build your chilli garlic sauce
In the same skillet, add your minced garlic and red chili flakes, sautéing gently for approximately 30 seconds until you can smell that intoxicating aroma filling your kitchen. Lower the heat to prevent burning, then pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese slowly. Watch as the sauce melts into a silky smooth consistency that promises indulgence in every bite.
Step 4: Bring it all together
Stir in the reserved pasta water and fresh lemon juice, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. This step balances richness and brightness, making the sauce cling lovingly to the pasta. Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss gently until every strand is coated in that lush, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that perfectly complements the garlic and chili warmth. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its creamiest and most flavorful.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a few lemon zest curls can elevate the presentation and add subtle complexity. Fresh parsley is a must for that vibrant green pop and a subtle herbal finish that brightens the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the garlic flavor and lets you soak up every last bit of sauce. For something lighter, steamed or roasted asparagus adds a satisfying crunch and color contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in large, shallow bowls to showcase the saucy prawns nestled among the noodles. For a fuss-free dinner party, plate the pasta family-style on a big platter and scatter chopped parsley and chili flakes on top for an inviting, rustic feel. Don’t forget a wedge of lemon on the side for an optional zesty squeeze!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cream sauce may thicken as it cools, so a little stirring and gentle reheating will bring it back to life.
Freezing
Because of the cream, freezing this dish isn’t ideal as it can alter the texture of the sauce and prawns. If you must freeze, separate the prawns from the pasta and sauce to preserve quality, and consume within one month.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce breaking or prawns becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use shrimp instead of prawns in this recipe?
Absolutely! Shrimp is a perfect substitute and works just as well, offering the same tender, juicy bite and flavor profile in this Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the red chili flakes to suit your heat preference. This recipe is very flexible, letting the creamy garlic sauce shine without too much kick if desired.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free twist. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor but still keep it creamy and delicious.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make wonderful additions that add color, nutrition, and layers of flavor to this pasta dish.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Spaghetti and fettuccine are classic choices because their smooth, long strands carry the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to use linguine or even penne if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
This Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and textures that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress and delight your taste buds. So grab those ingredients, get comfortable in your kitchen, and treat yourself to a plate of pure pasta happiness!
Print
Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is a rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish combining perfectly cooked prawns with a luscious creamy sauce infused with garlic and chili flakes. Tossed with al dente spaghetti or fettuccine and finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan, it offers a spicy yet creamy seafood pasta experience perfect for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
Prawns
- 1 pound raw prawns, peeled and deveined
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook Prawns: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the prawns with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the prawns from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Chili Flakes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and well combined.
- Simmer Sauce: Add the reserved pasta water and lemon juice to the sauce. Gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce and Prawns: Return the cooked prawns to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and prawns are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the spiciness to your preference.
