Name: Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe - Quick, Flavor-Packed Meal
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Italian / Fusion
Ingredients: 300 g (⅔ lb) raw prawns, peeled and deveined; 300 g (⅔ lb) linguine or spaghetti; 500 g (1 lb) ripe tomatoes (~4 large), diced (or cherry tomatoes/canned/passata); 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tbsp dried chilli flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tsp brown sugar; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra to serve); 1 clove garlic, minced; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked); 1 tbsp olive oil; Extra parsley, chopped; Extra chilli flakes; Extra virgin olive oil; Parmesan cheese

Chilli garlic prawn pasta is a quick, flavor-packed dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With al dente pasta tossed in a rich, spicy tomato sauce and topped with succulent prawns, this recipe delivers big flavor in just 20 minutes. Finished with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and optional parmesan, it’s a comfort food classic with a fiery kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is fast, fresh, and full of flavor. The prawns are seasoned and seared for maximum depth, then tossed with a garlicky tomato-chilli sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. It’s versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your preference, and it feels like restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a fuss-free dinner party, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe - Quick, Flavor-Packed Meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Raw prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined
Linguine (or spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta)
Fresh ripe tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, canned tomatoes, or passata as substitutes)
Tomato paste
Garlic, minced
Chilli flakes (or fresh chilli)
Brown sugar (or white sugar)
Olive oil
Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper

For prawn seasoning:

Garlic, minced
Paprika (sweet or smoky)
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper

Optional for serving:

Extra virgin olive oil
Parmesan cheese
Extra chilli flakes

Directions

Season the prawns: In a bowl, combine prawns with garlic, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix and set aside for 5 minutes.
Cook the pasta: Boil linguine in generously salted water according to packet instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Sear the prawns: Heat a pan on high. Cook prawns in a single layer for 1 minute per side. Remove and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same pan, add olive oil, garlic, and tomato paste. Cook on medium heat until garlic is golden. Add diced tomatoes, chilli flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer with the lid on for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine: Return prawns to the sauce along with parsley. Stir for 10 seconds. Add drained pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss on low heat until the pasta is well coated and silky.
Serve: Garnish with extra parsley, olive oil, parmesan, and more chilli flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Extra spicy: Use fresh chillies, hot paprika, or double the chilli flakes.
Add protein: Toss in fried chorizo, calamari, or mussels for a seafood twist.
Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or mascarpone for a milder, rich sauce.
Vegetarian: Swap prawns for roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.
Different pasta: Try penne, tagliatelle, or gluten-free pasta for variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing, as prawns lose texture and most prawns have already been frozen once before purchase.

FAQs

Do I need to devein prawns?

It’s optional, but recommended to avoid a gritty texture and improve presentation.

Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes, just thaw them completely, pat dry, and season before cooking.

How do I stop prawns from overcooking?

Cook for only 1 minute per side on high heat, then remove. Add them back at the very end with the pasta.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Canned whole or chopped tomatoes work well, or use passata (skip the tomato paste if using passata).

How spicy is this pasta?

It’s mildly spicy with the suggested amount of chilli flakes. Adjust up or down based on your preference.

What pasta works best?

Linguine or spaghetti are ideal, but you can use any shape you like. Long pasta tends to coat best with the sauce.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the parmesan garnish. The recipe is naturally dairy-free otherwise.

Why do I need to reserve pasta water?

The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce, making it glossy and cling to the pasta.

Can I prep this dish ahead?

You can prep the prawns and chop tomatoes in advance, but cook the pasta and sauce fresh for the best flavor and texture.

What sides pair well with this pasta?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Chilli garlic prawn pasta is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together the best of comfort food and bold flavor. Juicy prawns, spicy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta combine for a meal that’s fast, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.