A warm summer evening, the grill is heating up, and the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter fills the air—it’s a moment that sparks joy in anyone who craves a delicious homemade meal. I can’t help but savor each moment as I prepare to create my favorite dish: Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce. This recipe is not only quick, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish, but it also transforms fresh, succulent prawns into a show-stopping entrée that will impress family and friends alike.
I remember the first time I tossed those glorious prawns onto the grill, the sizzle echoing like music, and from then on, it became one of my go-to recipes for gatherings. The harmony of flavors—from rich butter and roasted garlic to a sprinkle of fresh parsley—gives this dish an irresistible appeal. Whether you’re having a backyard barbecue or just looking for an easy dinner option, these grilled prawns will elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s get started—you’ll love how easy and enjoyable this recipe is!
Why are Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires little more than fresh prawns and a few pantry staples, making it perfect for home cooks at any skill level.
Flavor explosion: The garlic butter sauce, combined with a hint of spice from the chili flakes, creates a mouthwatering experience that delights the taste buds.
Versatile dish: Serve these prawns as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a topping on pasta or salad—adaptable to fit any occasion!
Time-saving: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress family and friends with this vibrant dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion!
Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce Ingredients
For the Prawns
• Prawns – 2 pounds of fresh prawns make for a juicy, tender bite that’s the star of the dish.
• Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons help to create a perfect grilling surface while adding a rich flavor.
• Seafood seasoning – Use 2 tablespoons to elevate the prawns with a blend of savory spices.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons give a creamy, dreamy texture that coats the prawns wonderfully.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, finely diced, provide an aromatic punch that perfectly complements the dish.
• Seafood seasoning – Another 1 tablespoon enhances the sauce’s flavor and ties it to the prawns.
• Red chili pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon adds a gentle heat, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice.
For Garnishing
• Grilled lemon – Use ½ grilled lemon to squeeze over your prawns for a zesty brightness that elevates the dish.
• Fresh parsley – ¼ cup, chopped, adds a beautiful color and freshness to your plated creation.
Enjoy the burst of flavors with these Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Make Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce
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Preheat the grill: Light your grill using lump charcoal and aim for an internal temperature of 500°F. This high heat will ensure the prawns get those beautiful grill marks while cooking quickly!
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Toss the prawns: In a large bowl, combine the fresh prawns with extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of seafood seasoning. Make sure every prawn is coated well for maximum flavor.
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Grill the prawns: Place the prawns directly onto the hot grill grates. Cook for 2 – 3 minutes until they start turning red, then flip them over and grill for another 2 – 3 minutes until fully red and opaque.
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Prepare the garlic butter sauce: While the prawns are grilling, add butter, diced garlic, seafood seasoning, and red chili pepper flakes to the pre-warmed cast iron pan on the grill. Stir frequently until the butter melts.
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Grill the lemon: Place the half grilled lemon on the grill with the prawns. Keep an eye on it, grilling until nice marks appear, enhancing its flavor for squeezing later.
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Combine and garnish: In a large bowl, toss the grilled prawns with the melted garlic butter sauce while they are still warm. Drizzle with the juice from the grilled lemon and sprinkle with chopped parsley for that extra touch of color.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce?
The grilling season is upon us, and it’s all about creating a delicious spread that celebrates the joy of home-cooked meals.
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Creamy Risotto: The rich texture of risotto complements the succulent prawns nicely, creating a well-rounded plate that warms the soul.
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Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad brings a refreshing contrast, with tangy vinaigrette cutting through the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus offer vibrant colors and smoky flavors, enhancing the grilled theme of your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic pairing of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. It’s a warm hug for the taste buds!
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a zesty lemonade or refreshing iced tea, adding the perfect citrusy balance to the richness of the grilled prawns.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully, making each bite taste even better.
Let these simple and delightful sides elevate your dining experience, turning your grilled prawns into a centerpiece for a joyful feast!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover grilled prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze grilled prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat grilled prawns in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or butter to prevent drying out, until warmed through.
Flavor retention: For best results, freeze the prawns plain and prepare the garlic butter sauce fresh at serving for your delicious Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy an impressive meal with minimal day-of effort. You can marinate the prawns in olive oil and seafood seasoning up to 24 hours in advance—this not only saves time but also helps infuse the flavors. For the garlic butter sauce, you can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the prepared prawns according to the recipe and melt the chilled butter sauce on the grill as they cook. This way, you’ll have a delicious, stress-free dinner ready in no time, just as vibrant and flavorful as if made fresh!
Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce Variations
Get ready to let your creativity shine as you customize this recipe to match your taste preferences!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the garlic butter sauce for an extra punch of heat. This twist will tantalize spice lovers with every bite.
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Herbaceous Delight: Substitute fresh parsley with fresh basil or cilantro to change up the flavor profile. Each herb brings a unique freshness that complements the prawns beautifully.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some lime juice instead of grilled lemon for a zesty twist. The lime adds a bright and tangy element, perfect for those who love a citrusy punch.
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Coconut Infusion: Replace half of the unsalted butter with coconut oil for a tropical flair. This addition not only offers richness but also a hint of coconut aroma that transports you to a sunny beach.
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to 6 or 8 cloves for an even more aromatic and flavorful sauce. The result will be a garlicky goodness that simply can’t be resisted!
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Vegetable Pairing: Skewered veggies like bell peppers or zucchini alongside prawns for a colorful, healthy twist. It’s not just about the prawns; this adds texture and vibrancy to your meal.
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Sweet Touch: Add a tablespoon of honey to your garlic butter sauce for a subtle sweetness. This delightful contrast complements the savory garlic beautifully.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in place of seafood seasoning for a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled prawns, enticing your taste buds in a whole new way.
Tips for the Best Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce
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Choose fresh prawns: Look for lively, pink prawns with a clean ocean smell; frozen can be used but may lack flavor.
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Don’t overcook: Grill prawns just until they are fully red and opaque—this usually takes 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery!
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Preheat correctly: Ensure your grill reaches a sizzling 500°F for perfectly charred, juicy prawns. A well-heated grill provides the best sear.
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Butter timing: Add the garlic butter sauce to the grill just before the prawns are done, so it’s ready fresh and hot to toss the prawns in.
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Don’t skip the lemon: Grilling the lemon not only adds beautiful grill marks but also boosts the tangy freshness that elevates the entire dish.
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Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens up your dish but also balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce in every bite.
Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best prawns?
Absolutely! Look for prawns that are firm, pink, and smell like the ocean—no off-odors! If you’re buying frozen, opt for ones that are individually quick frozen (IQF) for the best flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover grilled prawns?
To keep your grilled prawns fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can cause them to become soggy.
Can I freeze grilled prawns?
Yes! To freeze, lay your grilled prawns out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight zip-top bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over low heat.
What if my grilled prawns are rubbery?
Very! If your prawns turn out rubbery, it usually means they were overcooked. Grill them for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re a vibrant red and the flesh is opaque. This is the sweet spot for perfectly juicy prawns!
Can I make this recipe for someone with a shellfish allergy?
Unfortunately, since this dish is centered around prawns, it’s not suitable for those with shellfish allergies. However, you could substitute the prawns with firm tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option! Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for your substitute.
How can I ensure my garlic butter sauce doesn’t burn?
To prevent your garlic butter sauce from burning, keep the heat low as you melt the butter and stir regularly. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly before stirring again. This way, you’ll achieve a beautifully fragrant sauce without any burnt bits!
Savor Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter Sauce Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill: Light your grill using lump charcoal and aim for an internal temperature of 500°F.
- Toss the prawns: In a large bowl, combine the fresh prawns with extra virgin olive oil and seafood seasoning.
- Grill the prawns: Place the prawns directly onto the hot grill grates and cook for 2 - 3 minutes until they start turning red.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce: Add butter, diced garlic, seafood seasoning, and red chili pepper flakes to the cast iron pan on the grill.
- Grill the lemon: Place the half grilled lemon on the grill, grilling until nice marks appear.
- Combine and garnish: Toss the grilled prawns with the melted garlic butter sauce while they are still warm.