If you’re searching for a dinner that feels like pure indulgence but takes less than half an hour to make, look no further than this Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta. With tender prawns, a dreamy cream sauce that packs a bit of heat, and silky noodles that soak up every bit of flavor, each bite is downright irresistible. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself on a weekday, this pasta promises to be the highlight of your table (and your weeknight routine)!
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony—and that’s exactly what happens here. Each component adds a unique touch, from the vibrant chili and aromatic garlic to the rich cream and zesty finish. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta:
- Linguine or Spaghetti (8 oz/225 g): Choose your favorite long pasta—the sauce hugs every strand beautifully.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): This is the golden base for flavor, ensuring the prawns cook up juicy and delicious.
- Large Raw Prawns (1 lb/450 g, peeled and deveined): The star of the show—sweet, tender, and quick to cook.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): For that irresistible, garlicky backbone that ties the whole dish together.
- Small Red Chili (finely chopped): Adjust to taste for just the right level of heat and color.
- Chili Flakes (1 teaspoon): Extra layers of warmth and a little kick in every forkful.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): The lush key to making this pasta truly creamy and decadent.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Salty, nutty richness that melts into the sauce.
- Dry White Wine (¼ cup, optional): Adds depth and softness—chicken broth works too if you prefer!
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A subtle zing that balances the creamy sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing every flavor to life.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): A fresh, herby finish that makes the whole dish pop.
How to Make Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta has the perfect texture to carry the sauce. Before draining, remember to scoop out about half a cup of pasta water—this handy trick will help your sauce reach the ideal creaminess later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Prawns
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the prawns in a single layer. Let them sizzle for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—they’ll go from tender to tough faster than you think! Once done, remove the prawns from the pan and set them aside for now.
Step 3: Make the Chili Garlic Base
In that same skillet (don’t clean it—those tasty little brown bits are flavor gold), lower the heat to medium and add your minced garlic and chopped chili. Give them a quick sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant. Next, stir in the chili flakes for an extra punch. At this stage, the kitchen starts to smell absolutely divine!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and let it simmer for 2 minutes. This adds wonderful depth and helps deglaze the pan. Once the wine has reduced, stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce, thickening it slightly and giving it that signature glossy finish of Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta.
Step 5: Finish and Toss
Return the cooked prawns to the skillet and drizzle in the lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Add your drained pasta to the pan, tossing everything together. Splash in some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce coats the noodles just right. Give it one more minute on the heat to let those flavors mingle, then get ready to serve this irresistible pasta straight from the skillet.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finishing touch, scatter a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top. A twist of cracked black pepper and a final sprinkle of Parmesan never hurt either! If you like a little extra heat, a pinch more chili flakes makes for a beautiful and spicy toppper.
Side Dishes
While this pasta truly stands on its own, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is practically non-negotiable for soaking up all that creamy, garlicky sauce. Feeling fancy? Try a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, swirl the pasta into deep bowls and arrange the prawns visibly on top. Finish each portion with a pop of fresh parsley and a slice of lemon on the side. Hosting a cozy dinner party? Serve smaller portions as part of a seafood trio, or plate it family-style for everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta (lucky you!), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will keep well for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making this pasta an unexpected lunchtime treat.
Freezing
This particular dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the cream sauce and delicate prawns, but you can freeze it if necessary. Freeze small portions in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and be prepared for the sauce to separate—a little extra cream or a splash of pasta water when reheating works wonders.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce and keep the prawns tender. Stir frequently, and heat only until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as prawns can become rubbery quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this dish?
Absolutely! Just make sure you thaw and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly instead of steaming. The result will still be just as Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta as ever.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, half-and-half works nicely. For a dairy-free twist, try coconut cream, though the flavor profile will tilt slightly tropical—still delicious and creamy!
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Swap out the prawns for sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. The creamy, garlicky, and chili-spiced sauce clings beautifully to veggies as well.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Simply reduce or omit the chili flakes and chopped chili. You’ll still get a gorgeous garlic prawn pasta with all the creamy richness, minus the heat.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, it’s easy to scale up! Double all ingredients but use a large pot or skillet to avoid overcrowding. Keep an eye on the sauce and be generous with salt and pepper as needed for that truly irresistible Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something unforgettable about sharing a steaming bowl of Mouthwatering Creamy Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta with people you love (including just yourself!). I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine—don’t wait for a special occasion, any night is the perfect night for pasta this good.
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this mouthwatering creamy chilli garlic prawn pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s bursting with flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) linguine or spaghetti
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) large raw prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the prawns: Sauté prawns until pink; set aside.
- Make the sauce: Sauté garlic and chili, add wine, cream, Parmesan, and lemon juice.
- Combine: Return prawns to skillet, add pasta, and toss until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute white wine with chicken broth.
- For extra heat, add more chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
