Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta – A Luxurious Yet Simple Dish

Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta is the ultimate comfort food – indulgent, rich, and bursting with flavor. This quick and easy dish combines succulent prawns with buttery garlic sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Whether you’re craving something luxurious for a date night or need a fast weeknight dinner, this garlic butter prawn pasta recipe delivers elegance and simplicity in every bite.

Why Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta is a Must-Try

The combination of juicy prawns, aromatic garlic, and silky butter sauce coats the pasta beautifully, offering a decadent experience that’s hard to resist. With a splash of white wine and a squeeze of lemon juice, the flavors are elevated, making each bite light yet indulgent.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without hours of preparation.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta

• 300 g (10 oz) shrimp or prawns – peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 tbsp Westgold salted butter (75g) – cut into 6 cubes
• 1 shallot – finely diced
• 6 cloves garlic – finely sliced or minced
• ¼ cup white wine
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp parsley – finely diced
• 300 g (10 oz) spaghetti
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Prawns

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
2. Season the prawns with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove the prawns from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced shallot to the same skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 4: Add Butter and Prawns

1. Gradually add the cubes of butter, stirring until melted and emulsified into the sauce.
2. Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce.

Step 5: Toss the Pasta

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
2. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

1. Plate the pasta, ensuring to distribute the prawns evenly. Garnish with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook quickly – overcooking can make them rubbery. Remove them as soon as they turn pink.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality butter and fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with chicken broth or extra lemon juice.
• Pasta Water Magic: The starch in the reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling to the spaghetti, creating a smooth, glossy finish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 510
• Fat: 24g
• Carbs: 55g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

Health Concerns

• High in Saturated Fat: This dish contains butter, contributing to higher fat content. For a lighter version, reduce the butter and increase the olive oil.
• Allergens: This recipe contains shellfish, dairy, and gluten. Substitute gluten-free pasta or plant-based butter for dietary needs.
• Low Carb Options: Serve the prawns over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Quick and easy (ready in under 30 minutes)
• Elegant and restaurant-quality
• Simple ingredients with bold flavors
• Perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals

Cons:

• Higher in fat and calories
• Requires fresh prawns for best results
• Can be heavy for those on low-fat diets

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What pasta works best for garlic butter prawn pasta?
Spaghetti or linguine are classic choices, but tagliatelle or fettuccine also pair well with the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus add color and nutrients to the pasta.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

What can I use instead of prawns?
Scallops, chicken, or even mushrooms make great substitutes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Prawn Pasta is the perfect blend of simplicity and luxury. It’s a dish that transforms a handful of ingredients into a decadent meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this recipe is bound to satisfy your cravings.

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