There is something about cooking seafood on the barbecue that instantly feels like summer. Quick to prepare, full of flavour and perfect for sharing, prawns are one of the easiest and most rewarding dishes you can make outdoors.
This garlic butter prawn recipe is simple, but when cooked over the grill, it becomes something special. With the right heat and a good BBQ, you get that perfect balance of smokiness, richness and freshness.
Why prawns work so well on the BBQ
Prawns cook quickly and absorb flavour beautifully, making them ideal for grilling. Whether you are using a gas BBQ, charcoal or a plancha, they only need a few minutes to achieve that perfect juicy texture.
They are also incredibly versatile and pair well with bold ingredients like garlic, chilli and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
- Raw prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 3–4 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
- 50g butter
- Fresh parsley
- Chilli flakes (optional, for heat)
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation
Start by patting the prawns dry and placing them in a bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper, and mix gently.
In a small pan, melt the butter and add the garlic. Cook on low heat for a couple of minutes until fragrant, then remove from the heat and add lemon juice, parsley and chilli flakes.
Cooking on the BBQ
Preheat your barbecue to medium-high heat. This is key for getting a quick sear without overcooking the prawns.
Place the prawns directly on the grill or use a pan or plancha for easier handling. Cook for around 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
Brush or pour the garlic butter over the prawns during the final minute of cooking.
Serving suggestion
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges, crusty bread or alongside grilled vegetables. The butter and juices create an incredible sauce that you will not want to waste.
Tips for perfect BBQ prawns
- Do not overcook them, or they will become rubbery
- Use medium-high heat for the best texture
- Add the butter towards the end to avoid burning
- For extra flavour, cook them on a charcoal BBQ
Make it even better with the right BBQ
Cooking prawns like this becomes effortless when you have the right equipment. A quality barbecue gives you consistent heat and better control, which is essential for delicate foods like seafood.
Explore our range of Gas BBQs, Charcoal BBQs and Accessories to take your outdoor cooking to the next level.
Final thoughts
Simple ingredients, great heat and a few minutes on the grill. That is all it takes to create something memorable.
Whether you are cooking for family or friends, garlic butter prawns are always a crowd favourite and a perfect way to enjoy your BBQ.