Prawn Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that brings together succulent prawns, a velvety Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This restaurant-quality meal is easy to make at home and perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner. The buttery garlic prawns combined with the smooth and cheesy sauce create an indulgent dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing a romantic meal or simply treating yourself to a gourmet dinner, this Prawn Alfredo recipe is a must-try.
One of the best things about this Prawn Alfredo recipe is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The prawns add a sweet and savory element, while the creamy Alfredo sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, creating a luscious bite every time.
If you’re a seafood lover or simply enjoy rich and creamy pasta dishes, this Prawn Alfredo recipe is ideal. It offers a balance of tender prawns, garlic-infused butter, and a silky sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can enjoy it as is or add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra depth and nutrition.
Preparation Time for Prawn Alfredo Recipe
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
Ingredients for Prawn Alfredo Recipe
To make the Pasta:
- Fettuccine Pasta – 250g (~380 calories)
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (~0 calories)
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon (~120 calories)
For the Prawns:
- Prawns (peeled and deveined) – 300g (~300 calories)
- Garlic (minced) – 4 cloves (~18 calories)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons (~200 calories)
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon (~6 calories)
- Salt and Pepper – To taste (~0 calories)
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (~4 calories)
To make the Alfredo Sauce:
- Butter – 2 tablespoons (~200 calories)
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup (~800 calories)
- Parmesan Cheese (grated) – 1 cup (~430 calories)
- Nutmeg (optional) – ¼ teaspoon (~2 calories)
- Fresh Parsley (chopped) – 1 tablespoon (~1 calorie)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – 1 tablespoon (~22 calories)
- Chili Flakes – ½ teaspoon (~2 calories)
- Fresh Parsley – 1 teaspoon (~1 calorie)
Instructions: How to Make Prawn Alfredo Recipe
1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain and Toss: Drain the pasta and toss it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2: Prepare the Prawns
- Season the Prawns: In a bowl, season the prawns with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add lemon juice and mix well.
- Sauté the Prawns: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Prawns: Add the seasoned prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using) for extra warmth and depth.
4: Combine Everything
- Add the Pasta: Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand.
- Add the Prawns: Return the prawns to the skillet and mix them into the pasta, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Simmer and Blend: Let the pasta and prawns simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5: Garnish and Serve
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, and fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve Warm: Plate the Prawn Alfredo and serve it immediately while the sauce is rich and creamy.
Calorie Breakdown
- Fettuccine Pasta: ~380 calories
- Olive Oil: ~120 calories
- Prawns: ~300 calories
- Garlic: ~18 calories
- Butter: ~400 calories (2 tbsp for prawns + 2 tbsp for sauce)
- Paprika: ~6 calories
- Lemon Juice: ~4 calories
- Heavy Cream: ~800 calories
- Parmesan Cheese: ~430 calories
- Nutmeg: ~2 calories
- Fresh Parsley: ~2 calories
- Garnishes (Optional): ~25 calories
- Total Calories: ~2,487 calories (serves 4; ~620 calories per serving)
Why This Recipe Works
1. Rich and Creamy: The Alfredo sauce is luxuriously creamy, perfectly coating the pasta and prawns.
2. Flavorful Prawns: The garlic butter prawns add a savory and slightly sweet touch, complementing the creamy sauce.
3. Restaurant-Quality: This dish offers a gourmet taste with simple ingredients, making it perfect for special occasions or date nights.
4. Versatile: You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Customizable: Swap prawns with chicken or scallops for a variation.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water.
2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for an extra 2-3 minutes, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.
3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers a richer flavor, but pre-grated cheese works in a pinch.
4. What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine is the classic choice, but you can use linguine, penne, or spaghetti as well.
5. Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to prevent drying out.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
1.Perfect for Date Nights: An elegant meal that feels restaurant-worthy.
2.Seafood Lover’s Delight: Prawns add a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
3.Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
4.Customizable: Add veggies or spices to make it your own.
5.Crowd-Pleaser: A rich, creamy dish that everyone will love.