Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe That’ll Wow You!

January 13, 2026
Written By Darleen Vance

mom who turned her slow cooker into a lifesaver. Here you’ll find cozy, easy-to-make recipes that bring comfort to busy days and smiles to the dinner table.

Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe That’ll Wow You!

Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe has become my absolute go-to for those evenings when I crave something luxurious yet surprisingly simple. The first time I made this dish, the aroma of simmering coconut milk and curry spices filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a beachside restaurant in Thailand. There’s something magical about how the silky coconut sauce clings to each strand of pasta while plump prawns provide bursts of sweetness. This 30-minute wonder strikes the perfect balance between creamy comfort and exotic flair that’ll have everyone at your table reaching for seconds. Ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine? Let’s dive in!

Recipe

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Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe That’ll Wow You!

Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe


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  • Author: Darleen Vance
  • Total Time: 30
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti combines bold Thai-inspired flavors with Italian comfort food. Juicy prawns, rich coconut milk, and red curry paste come together in a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to spaghetti. It’s fast, flavorful, and unforgettable!


Ingredients

8 oz (225g) spaghetti

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon red curry paste

1/2 teaspoon grated ginger

1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk (full-fat)

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1/2 tablespoon brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon lime zest

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 lb (450g) raw prawns, peeled and deveined

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro or Thai basil, for garnish

Optional: red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili


Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute.

3. Stir in red curry paste and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir and simmer for 3–4 minutes.

5. Add prawns and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until they are pink and cooked through.

6. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and gently mix to coat in the sauce.

7. Taste and season with salt, pepper, or more lime if desired.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs and chili flakes before serving.

Notes

• Use linguine or rice noodles as an alternative pasta.

• Adjust spice by increasing or reducing curry paste and chili.

• Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe

Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe delivers that rare harmony where every element sings. The rich coconut milk creates a velvety base that’s both indulgent and light, while curry paste adds depth without overwhelming heat. I love how the natural sweetness of the prawns plays against the aromatic spices, creating layers of flavor that unfold with each bite. What makes this dish truly special is how it manages to feel both familiar and exotic simultaneously—comforting like your favorite pasta but with an adventurous twist that breaks the weeknight dinner monotony.

Quick Yet Impressive Results

Don’t you adore recipes that seem fancy but come together in minutes? This Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe is exactly that kind of culinary magic trick. The sauce develops incredible depth of flavor in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something special. I’ve served this to last-minute dinner guests who were convinced I’d been cooking all day! The vibrant colors alone—pink prawns, green herbs, and golden curry sauce—create an Instagram-worthy presentation that belies the minimal effort required. It’s my secret weapon for turning an ordinary Tuesday into something memorable.

Essential Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Prawns

The star of this Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe deserves special attention. For the juiciest results, avoid overcooking your prawns—they need just 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. I like to sear them separately first, then remove them while finishing the sauce. This prevents that disappointing rubbery texture that comes from excessive heat. Another game-changing tip: pat the prawns dry before cooking to get that beautiful caramelization. The difference in flavor is remarkable! For an extra flavor boost, try marinating them in a splash of lime juice and pinch of salt for 10 minutes before cooking.

Creating the Ultimate Coconut Sauce

The soul of this dish lies in its luscious sauce. For the most flavorful Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe, always use full-fat coconut milk—the light versions simply won’t deliver that silky richness we’re after. My secret ingredient? A tablespoon of fish sauce for umami depth that makes people wonder what your secret is. Start by sautéing aromatics (garlic, ginger, and shallots) until fragrant before adding your curry paste—this blooms the spices and transforms the flavor profile. For the perfect consistency, simmer uncovered for the final few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the spaghetti beautifully.

Serving Ideas & Creative Variations

Complementary Side Dishes

The versatility of this Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe means it pairs wonderfully with so many sides. My personal favorite is a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and a touch of sugar—the cool crispness cuts through the rich sauce perfectly. For a more substantial meal, garlic naan bread makes an excellent sauce-sopping companion. When entertaining, I often serve this alongside a platter of roasted vegetables tossed with lime zest for brightness. The colorful presentation always impresses guests! For a refreshing counterpoint, consider a simple side of mango slices with a squeeze of lime and pinch of chili flakes.

Exciting Recipe Adaptations

While the classic version is divine, this recipe welcomes creative tweaks! For a heartier Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe, try adding roasted butternut squash cubes or crispy tofu for textural contrast. Vegetarians can skip the prawns entirely and load up on colorful bell peppers, snow peas, and mushrooms. I’ve even made a fusion version with a tablespoon of peanut butter and a splash of soy sauce for Thai-inspired notes. If you’re serving spice-lovers, stir in some fresh Thai chilies for heat that builds with each bite. The foundation remains deliciously adaptable for whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Storage & Troubleshooting Guide

Proper Storage Solutions

This Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe stores surprisingly well despite its seafood component. For leftovers, cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavors actually develop beautifully overnight! When reheating, add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken when chilled. For meal prep, I recommend preparing the sauce separately and storing it without the prawns, then cooking fresh prawns and pasta just before serving. This maintains the perfect texture while still giving you a head start on dinner.

Fixing Common Issues

Even experienced cooks encounter challenges! If your sauce for the Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe separates or appears curdled, don’t panic. Lower the heat immediately and whisk vigorously until smooth again. For sauce that’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes; if too thick, add coconut milk tablespoon by tablespoon until you reach desired consistency. Bland sauce? Brighten with lime juice, fish sauce, or an extra teaspoon of curry paste. Remember that pasta continues absorbing liquid after cooking, so if making ahead, keep your sauce slightly thinner than you’d ultimately want it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen prawns for this Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe?

Absolutely! Thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. I actually keep frozen prawns on hand specifically for this recipe, making it perfect for impromptu dinner plans.

What’s the best curry paste to use?

Red or yellow curry paste works beautifully. Red offers more heat, while yellow provides a milder, aromatic profile. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust to your taste preference.

Can I substitute the spaghetti with other pasta?

Certainly! Linguine works wonderfully, and rice noodles create a more authentic Southeast Asian feel. Even zucchini noodles work for a lower-carb option.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to cream?

The beauty of this recipe is it’s naturally dairy-free! The coconut milk provides all the creaminess you need without any heavy cream or butter.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add fresh sliced chilies, a teaspoon of chili flakes, or an extra tablespoon of curry paste. A dash of cayenne pepper works wonders for heat without altering the flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Coconut Curry Prawn Spaghetti Recipe has become my reliable escape from ordinary weeknight cooking—a little culinary vacation in a bowl. What I adore most is how it transforms simple ingredients into something that feels special enough for celebrations yet easy enough for Monday nights. The way the aromatic sauce clings to each strand of pasta, punctuated by tender prawns, creates a sensory experience that satisfies on every level. I hope this becomes a beloved addition to your recipe collection, one that brings both comfort and excitement to your table. For more inspiration, check out our Pinterest collection of seafood favorites!

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