The sound of sizzling prawns on the grill brings back memories of summer nights filled with laughter and mouthwatering aromas wafting through the air. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns—a dish that transforms tender, succulent prawns into a culinary delight with just the right amount of garlic and heat. This recipe offers a blend of quick preparation and gourmet flair, making it the perfect showstopper for your next backyard gathering or intimate dinner at home. Plus, with options for vegan swaps and spice adjustments, it’s adaptable for all palates. Ready to elevate your seafood game? Let’s dive into the irresistible world of flavor and creativity!

Why Choose Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Prawns?

Irresistible flavors: The luscious garlic confit butter combined with juicy prawns creates a gourmet experience you’re sure to love.

Quick prep: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, these butterflied prawns come together in no time.

Crowd-pleaser: Impress guests with a show-stopping dish that’s rich, buttery, and full of aromatic deliciousness.

Versatile options: Swap in vegan butter for a plant-based delight or add a zesty twist with lemon zest or fresh herbs to cater to any dietary preference.

Memorable presentation: With their vibrant appearance and glossy finish, these BBQ prawns look as good as they taste, elevating any dining experience.

Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Ingredients

• Discover the key flavors in these stunning prawns!

For the Prawns

Large Tiger Prawns – Look for shiny, firm prawns for the best flavor and texture.
Salt – Use judiciously, especially if using salted butter or anchovies.

For the Garlic Confit Butter

Westgold Salted Butter – Room temperature makes it easy to blend into a rich sauce.
Garlic Confit – Sweetly roasted garlic adds depth; store-bought can save time.
Dried Chili Flakes – Adjust the amount for your preferred level of heat; enhances the BBQ experience.
Anchovy Fillets – These provide umami richness, but can be omitted for a vegetarian option.

For Garnishing

Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

This Garlic Confit Butter BBQ recipe beautifully combines all these ingredients, bringing together an aromatic and flavorful experience that’s unforgettable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns

Step 1: Butterfly the Prawns
Begin by carefully bathing your large tiger prawns in cold water, ensuring they are clean. Use a sharp knife to cut down the backbone of each prawn, stopping just before the tail. Be gentle to keep the shell and head intact while removing the black vein along the back. This preparation is essential for even cooking and allows the garlic confit butter to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Blend the Butter Mix
In a food processor, combine room-temperature Westgold salted butter, sticky and aromatic garlic confit, dried chili flakes, anchovy fillets, and a pinch of salt. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is completely silky and smooth, about 30 seconds to a minute. This garlic confit butter will be the star of your BBQ prawns, infusing them with a rich and flavorful depth.

Step 3: Brush the Prawns
Generously brush the garlic confit butter mixture onto the cut sides of each butterflied prawn. Make sure each prawn is well-coated, as this will enhance the flavor while cooking. The rich buttery blend will add mouthwatering richness and ensure the prawns become beautifully caramelized when grilled. Set the prawns aside while you preheat the BBQ.

Step 4: Preheat the BBQ
Prepare your BBQ by heating it to high, aiming for a sizzling temperature of around 200°C (approximately 400°F). This preheating step is crucial to achieve that charred finish that makes Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns so irresistible. Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking before placing the prawns.

Step 5: Grill Prawns
Place the butterflied prawns flesh side down directly onto the hot grill grates. Close the lid and let them cook for about 2 minutes, or until the prawns turn pink and begin to char slightly. This high heat will create those lovely grill marks while sealing in the moisture and flavor. Be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Flip and Finish
Gently flip the prawns over to expose the shell side to the heat. Continue grilling for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and opaque. The prawns should be tender yet offer a slight bite, with a beautiful charred appearance. This grilling phase completes the transformation of your prawns into a stunning Garlic Confit Butter BBQ dish.

Step 7: Make Final Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt any remaining garlic confit butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in finely diced fresh parsley, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This finishing touch will enhance the dish’s aroma and complement the grilled prawns, bringing an extra layer of freshness to the Garlic Confit Butter BBQ experience.

Step 8: Serve
Transfer the grilled prawns to a serving platter, ensuring they are arranged appealingly. Drizzle the prepared garlic butter sauce generously over the prawns, saving some for dipping on the side. This final step not only adds flavor but also showcases the vibrant colors of your Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns, making them a delightful centerpiece for any table.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet dish with minimal last-minute effort. You can butterfly the prawns and prepare the garlic confit butter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to cook, take the chilled prawns and generously coat them with the garlic butter mix before preheating your BBQ. Just follow the grilling instructions as normal, and you’ll have succulent prawns that taste just as delicious as if they were made freshly! This prep-ahead strategy is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Prawns

Fridge: Store leftover prawns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain tenderness without overcooking.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze prawns before grilling for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling to retain optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating: If reheating cooked prawns, use low heat in a skillet to prevent toughness. Drizzle with a bit of extra garlic confit butter for added moisture and flavor.

What to Serve with Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns

Transform your meal into a delightful feast that tantalizes the taste buds while inviting conversation and connection.

Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for soaking up that rich, garlicky butter. A warm loaf enhances the meal’s comforting vibes.
Citrusy Coleslaw: The refreshing crunch complements the succulent prawns, balancing the richness of the garlic butter with bright, zesty notes.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender and lightly charred, these greens add a vibrant touch to your plate while echoing the BBQ theme. Pair them with a squeeze of lemon to elevate the flavors.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and crispy edges harmonize beautifully with the savory prawns, creating a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors.
Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh counterbalance to the rich dish, ensuring every bite is exciting.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Rosé pairs effortlessly with the seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience while complementing the garlic’s depth.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this silky treat offers a rich conclusion to the meal, providing a delightful contrast to the garlic-infused prawns without overpowering them.

Expert Tips for Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Prawns

Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the prawns while grilling; they become rubbery if overcooked. Stick to 2 minutes per side.
Prep Ahead: To streamline dinner, butterfly the prawns and whip up the garlic confit butter a day in advance. Just refrigerate overnight!
Flavor Adjustments: If skipping anchovies, consider a dash of soy sauce or miso to maintain that umami depth without sacrificing flavor.
Grilling Technique: Ensure the grill is preheated for a solid char. A hot grill will not only cook the prawns evenly but also enhance the garlic confit butter flavors.
Garnish Matters: Fresh parsley not only brightens the dish but adds a touch of elegance. Don’t skip this final flourish to elevate your Garlic Confit Butter BBQ serving!

Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Variations

Feel free to mix things up and create your perfect garlic confit butter BBQ prawns with these delightful variations!

Lemon Zest: Add freshly grated lemon zest for a bright and refreshing twist. Its citrusy notes will awaken your taste buds and elevate the richness of the dish.
Herb Infusion: Swap out parsley for fresh dill or cilantro to introduce a new layer of flavor. Dill lends a creamy flavor while cilantro brings a fresh, zesty element that pairs beautifully with seafood.
Vegan Option: Use a high-quality vegan butter and skip the anchovies for a delicious plant-based adaptation. You won’t miss a beat on flavor, and everyone can enjoy this dish!
Spicier Version: For those who crave heat, increase the dried chili flakes or toss in some fresh chopped chilies. The extra spice brings a bold kick that perfectly complements the garlic richness.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or almonds to the butter for a satisfying crunch. It adds a delightful textural contrast and a hint of nuttiness that makes the dish unique.
Coconut Style: Replace half the butter with coconut oil for a tropical flair. This swap not only changes the flavor profile but also gives the prawns a lovely, slightly sweet undertone.
Garlic and Herb Fusion: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the butter blend. This twist enhances the overall garlic flavor while contributing aromatic herbaceous notes that heighten the dish’s complexity.
Sundried Tomato Boost: Fold in finely chopped sundried tomatoes to the garlic butter for a Mediterranean touch. This addition brings a sweet yet tangy element that beautifully complements the savory prawns.

Explore these variations to make the dish your own, or savor it just as it’s prepared—either way, prepare for deliciousness! If you’re interested in additional ways to enrich your meals, you might also love my Garlic Butter Shrimp or Honey Garlic Salmon recipes. Enjoy!

Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best prawns for this recipe?
When choosing prawns, look for large tiger prawns that are shiny and firm to the touch. Fresh prawns should smell like the ocean—not fishy. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong odor, as these can indicate age. If you’re going for frozen, ensure that they are properly thawed and still have that firm texture before preparing!

What’s the best way to store leftover Garlic Confit Butter BBQ Butterflied Prawns?
Store any leftover prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat gently over low heat to keep them tender and prevent them from becoming rubbery. If you’re in a hurry, a quick reheating in a pan with a drizzle of extra garlic confit butter will do the trick!

Can these prawns be frozen for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the butterflied prawns before grilling for up to 2 months. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before grilling for the best flavor and texture.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergy concerns?
No worries! If you’re looking for a vegan option, simply substitute the Westgold butter with your favorite vegan butter and omit the anchovy fillets. For people with shellfish allergies, you can try using firm tofu as a substitute to achieve a similar texture, just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly. Always check for any cross-reactivity with other seafood allergies!

How can I avoid overcooking the prawns?
To ensure perfectly cooked prawns, keep a close eye during grilling. Aim for about 2 minutes on the flesh side until they turn pink and charred, followed by an additional 1-2 minutes on the shell side. If they curl up tightly and look opaque, it’s a sign they’re done. Remember, overcooking will make them rubbery, so less is more in this case!

What if I don’t have garlic confit?
If you’re out of garlic confit, no worries! You can quickly roast your garlic cloves by drizzling them with olive oil and wrapping them in foil before baking them at 200°C (400°F) for about 30 minutes until soft. Alternatively, minced fresh garlic can be used, but reduce the amount to avoid overwhelming the dish with sharpness.