Creamy Prawn Pasta – Not Just Another Quick Meal

Sometimes, you just need a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between quick and indulgent. This Creamy Prawn Pasta is exactly that - a delightful combination of juicy prawns, a luscious creamy sauce, and the satisfying bite of fresh pasta.

If you're juggling work, kids, and the general chaos of life, this recipe is a lifesaver. I know the feeling all too well - finishing work at 5 p.m, with dinner to whip up before the bedtime routine begins for my little ones, especially my energetic five-year-old. This dish has saved the day countless times, and I'm sure it'll do the same for you.

Why you'll love this recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 20 minutes, even on your busiest days
• Versatile: Swap out ingredients based on what you have in the fridge (and/or cupboard).
• Kid-Approved: Creamy, comforting and a guaranteed hit.

Let me guide you through making this weeknight wonder.

What you'll need

• Prawns: Cooked prawns work best for speed, but raw ones are fine too - just sauté or boil for 3 minutes.
• Bacon: Chopped into small squares. Don't like bacon? Shredded chicken works wonderfully as well.
• Pasta: Fresh pasta is ideal for a shorter cooking time, but dry pasta or spaghetti will do perfectly.
• Double cream: Or single cream if you prefer it lighter.
• Milk: Semi-skimmed or full-fat, your choice.
• Plain Flour: Just a tablespoon to thicken the sauce.
• Garlic & Onion: For that aromatic base.
• Olive Oil: A dash for sautéing.
• Seasonings: Ground pepper and mixed Italian herbs for garnish.

Optional: Parmesan cheese for a cheesy touch, though I often skip it to keep things light.

Let's cook

1. Start with the pasta

If using dry pasta, boil the kettle and get it cooking - it'll take about 15 minutes. Fresh pasta? Great, it's done in 5. Either way, finish this step first to avoid any last-minute panic. Don't forget to drizzle a bit of oil into the boiling water to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the bacon

Heat a dry pan on high and cook the chopped bacon for a few minutes. You'll notice juices begin to appear - feel free to discard them. Continue cooking until the bacon is slightly caramelised but still tender. Want it crispy? The grill or air fryer is your friend.

3. Make the sauce

In a different pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and stir for about a minute. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly to avoid burning. After a couple of minutes, when fragrant and golden, sprinkle in the plain flour.

Stir well to avoid lumps, then slowly add the milk stirring as you go. The sauce will thicken slightly. Finish with your cream of choice, and keep stirring until smooth.

4. Combine

Toss the prawns and cooked bacon into the sauce. The natural saltiness from these ingredients seasons the sauce just right, so there's no need for extra salt. Add a dash of ground pepper, and after a minute or two, turn off the heat.

5. Serve

Divide the pasta into bowls, spoon the creamy prawn sauce over the top, and garnish with mixed Italian herbs. For a cheesy twist, grate some Parmesan on top, though I prefer it without to let the creamy sauce shine.

Make it your own

What I love most about this Creamy Prawn Pasta is how adaptable it is. Whether you switch up the protein, use fresh or dry pasta, or add your own twist with extra seasonings, it always turns out delicious. It's quick, comforting, and perfect for those evenings when time is short but you still want something special on the table.

Give it a try, you'll want to make it again!

Love prawns? Head over here to check out my other prawn recipes.