The smoky char from the grill, combined with the creamy garlic-lemon butter sauce, makes these prawns irresistibly rich and aromatic. The shells protect the tender flesh while absorbing just enough smoke and heat to give a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant seafood spreads, this dish is a certified showstopper.
These prawns come together quickly, making them a great option even for busy weeknights. You can serve them over fluffy basmati rice, scoop up the buttery sauce with crusty bread, or pair them with fresh corn on the cob. However you serve them, expect rave reviews and zero leftovers.
Full Recipe:
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1.5 kg (3 lbs) shrimp/prawns, deveined but shell and head on
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2 tbsp Cajun spice
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1 tbsp lemon pepper
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2 tsp salt
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3 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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250g (2 sticks) unsalted butter
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10 garlic cloves, crushed
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3-4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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2 tsp Cajun spice
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1 tsp red chili flakes
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½ cup heavy cream
Directions:
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Use kitchen scissors to devein the prawns if needed, slicing down the back and removing the vein.
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Place the prawns in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, Cajun spice, lemon pepper, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
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In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add crushed garlic, lemon juice, Cajun spice, and chili flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
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Pour in the cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Taste — it should be lemon-forward and bold in flavor.
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Preheat grill to high heat (outdoor grill preferred for smoky flavor). Grill prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, until coral/orange and opaque.
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As they finish grilling, toss each batch of prawns into the pot with the sauce. Stir to coat well.
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Serve immediately with rice, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables, and lemon wedges for squeezing.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 399 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Grilled Garlic Butter Prawns: A Seafood Lover’s Dream
Grilled Garlic Butter Prawns are one of those dishes that strike the perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing. It’s rich yet bright, smoky yet silky, and simple yet extravagant. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend cookout or a romantic dinner at home, this recipe delivers a deeply satisfying experience that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Grilling prawns (or shrimp, depending on your locale) in their shells locks in the juiciness and enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. When coated in a garlicky lemon butter sauce with just the right amount of Cajun spice, they become something truly irresistible. It’s a dish where technique meets taste, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The combination of grilling and butter basting is a classic for a reason. High-heat cooking caramelizes the surface of the prawns, while the butter and garlic bring richness and depth. The lemon brightens the flavor profile, while the chili flakes add a gentle but noticeable heat.
What elevates this dish even more is the choice to grill the prawns in their shells. While some may be tempted to remove the shells for convenience, keeping them on during cooking protects the delicate flesh from drying out. It also adds a subtle complexity to the final flavor, especially when the shells catch a bit of char from the flames. The shell acts like a natural armor, locking in all the juices while absorbing the smoky essence from the grill.
Flavor Profile: A Perfect Fusion
This recipe offers a symphony of flavors that play together beautifully. The primary notes are savory and garlicky, thanks to the generous use of fresh garlic cloves and butter. The addition of Cajun spice introduces a warm, smoky undertone that complements the grill’s natural char. Lemon juice brings a zing that cuts through the richness, providing balance and a refreshing finish.
The optional splash of cream in the sauce is a smart addition. It rounds out the sharpness of the lemon and creates a smooth, velvety coating that clings to each prawn. The result? A luscious, tangy, spicy butter sauce that’s so good, you’ll be scraping your plate clean with bread or rice.
What Makes This Recipe Unique
Unlike many other grilled seafood recipes, this one doesn’t skimp on bold seasoning or luxurious sauce. The use of cream in a grilled dish is an unconventional touch that adds unexpected richness, while still keeping the focus on the seafood.
Another unique aspect is the dish’s interactive nature. Diners are encouraged to peel the prawns at the table and maybe even suck out the juices from the head—a common practice in many cultures that adds to the overall sensory experience. It may be messy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
Moreover, this recipe proves that you don’t need a complicated list of ingredients to make something truly special. It’s a celebration of simplicity done right—high-quality seafood, balanced flavors, and expert cooking techniques.
Cultural Relevance and Global Influence
Grilled prawns in garlic butter sauce have become a staple in many global cuisines. In the Mediterranean, garlic and lemon are often paired with seafood. In the American South, Cajun spices and shell-on seafood are standard for crawfish boils and shrimp feasts. In Asia, grilling shellfish over open flames is a beloved street food tradition.
This recipe beautifully merges all those influences—Mediterranean freshness, Southern spice, and Asian grilling flair—into a single, irresistible dish. It feels familiar yet exotic, comforting yet adventurous.
Best Ways to Serve Grilled Garlic Butter Prawns
The beauty of this dish is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and can be served in multiple ways, depending on the occasion.
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Over Rice: Basmati or jasmine rice is ideal. The fluffy grains absorb the garlic butter sauce, turning them into a flavor-packed side.
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With Crusty Bread: A rustic baguette or sourdough loaf works well to mop up the extra sauce.
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As a Topping: Use the prawns to crown a fresh salad, pasta, or even creamy polenta for a hearty meal.
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With Corn or Grilled Veggies: Corn on the cob, zucchini, and bell peppers make for colorful, textural complements.
Presentation-wise, a platter of these glistening prawns garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, lemon wedges, and maybe a few grilled lemon halves will make an impressive centerpiece.
Tips for Grilling Prawns to Perfection
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Use Large or Jumbo Prawns: These are easier to handle on the grill and less likely to overcook.
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Keep the Shell On: This enhances the flavor and protects the prawn’s tender meat.
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Grill on High Heat: A hot grill ensures you get those beautiful grill marks quickly, without overcooking the seafood.
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Don’t Walk Away: Prawns cook fast—usually 2-3 minutes per side. Stay close and keep an eye on them.
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Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is fully preheated before adding the prawns to avoid sticking and promote even cooking.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
While this dish is best served hot off the grill, you can prepare components in advance:
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Marinate the Prawns: Let them sit in the seasoning and oil for up to 30 minutes before grilling.
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Make the Sauce Ahead: Prepare the garlic butter sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat before tossing with grilled prawns.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or butter to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish without a grill?
Absolutely. Use a grill pan or even a large cast-iron skillet on the stovetop. While you may not get the same smoky flavor, the end result will still be delicious.
Can I use frozen prawns or shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them and pat them dry before seasoning and grilling.
Is the cream necessary?
No, but it adds an extra layer of richness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply omit the cream and rely on the butter and lemon for your sauce.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is moderate. You can adjust the amount of chili flakes and Cajun seasoning to your personal taste.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
Grilled Garlic Butter Prawns are a shining example of how simple ingredients can create a luxurious meal. It’s quick to make, packed with bold, balanced flavors, and perfect for a variety of dining occasions. From backyard barbecues to date-night dinners, this dish fits right in. The combination of smoky char, zesty lemon, rich butter, and warm spice turns every bite into an explosion of flavor.
More than just a recipe, it’s an experience. It invites you to eat with your hands, get a little messy, and enjoy food in its most elemental form. Whether you’re a seafood fanatic or someone just starting to explore shellfish, Grilled Garlic Butter Prawns will win you over—one juicy bite at a time.