Masala Stuffed Prawns | Oven Baked Seafood Recipe

Craving something bold and unforgettable? My juicy masala stuffed prawns are here to upgrade your seafood game in the most delicious way. This recipe is one of my go-to favourites when I want to wow my guests, or treat myself on a cozy weeknight.

The dish is packed with a flavorful, spiced tomato filling, the prawns are marinated to perfection, then baked until juicy and tender. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro at the end brings it all together for that restaurant-style finish, right from your kitchen. This dish takes a bit of time, but so worth it. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll keep coming back for more.

The Star of the Dish: Prawns

Prawns are a versatile and protein-rich ingredient that takes on flavours beautifully. In this recipe, they’re butterflied and marinated with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, giving them a delicious base before stuffing. The marinade enhances their natural sweetness while adding a subtle smoky kick. Once baked, the prawns remain tender and juicy, a perfect canvas for the vibrant masala filling. Prawns are great for appetizers, especially when hosting or enjoying a game night.

Making Delicious Masala Stuffed Prawns Recipe

To make this masterpiece, you will need the following:

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 1 lb large prawns (about 20 pcs), deveined and butterflied
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

For the Filling

• 2 ripe tomatoes, crushed
• 1/2 large red bell pepper, crushed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp curry powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/4 tsp chilli powder
• 1/2 bunch of cilantro, plus extra chopped for garnishing

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Slice each prawn midway through the back to create space for stuffing. Add the prawns to the marinade and let them sit while you prepare the filling.
2. In a blender, add the crushed tomatoes, bell pepper, and cilantro. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for a few minutes until they become translucent and lightly golden.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in the blended tomato mixture. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes. Remove the lid and stir in curry powder, paprika, garam masala, chilli powder, and ketchup. Mix well and let it cook for another 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the excess liquid evaporates.
6. Add lemon juice, stir, and remove from heat. Let the masala cool slightly before stuffing.
7. Spoon the masala filling into each butterflied prawn.
8. Arrange the stuffed prawns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until the prawns are cooked through and slightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and drizzle some extra masala sauce over the top if desired.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

How To Make Masala Stuffed Prawns Recipe

These juicy masala stuffed prawns are a flavor-packed seafood delight, perfect for dinner parties or spicing up a weekday meal. Filled with a rich, spiced tomato stuffing and baked to perfection, they’re both elegant and easy to make.

4.34 from 3 votes

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Fusion, Indian

Servings 4

Calories 128 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb large prawns
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 ripe tomatoes crushed
• 1/2 large red bell peper crushed
• 1/2 tsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic minced
• 1/2 medium red onion
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/4 tsp chilli powder
• 1/2 bunch cilantro

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, combine the marinade ingredients. Slice the prawns midway through the back to create a pocket for stuffing. Add prawns to the bowl and toss well. Set aside to marinate.
• Blend the tomatoes, bell pepper, and cilantro until smooth. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and slightly golden.
• Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the blended tomato mixture. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes.
• Remove lid, stir in curry powder, paprika, garam masala, chili powder, and ketchup. Let simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes until thickened. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
• Spoon the masala filling into each butterflied prawn.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).Place stuffed prawns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the prawns are fully cooked and golden.
• Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and drizzle some of the extra masala sauce on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Please note that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe.

 

Nutrition

Calories: 128kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 17gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 143mgSodium: 684mgPotassium: 343mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 969IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 78mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Masala Stuffed Prawns, Prawn, Seafood, stuffed prawn recipe

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

The Flavour Explosion Juicy Masala Stuffed Prawns

What sets these juicy masala-stuffed prawns apart is the aromatic stuffing made from crushed tomatoes, red bell pepper, garlic, and a blend of Indian spices. The mixture is sautéed with onions and simmered until thick, tangy, and spicy. A touch of lemon juice brightens the flavours, and cilantro adds a burst of freshness. This stuffing elevates the dish into something truly special, with layers of flavour in every bite. Drizzle or dip into this delicious homemade sauce for a complete appetizer experience. For a complete meal, serve with roasted potatoes or rice.

Why You Will Love This Masala Stuffed Prawns

These prawns are baked to perfection in just 12-15 minutes at 375°F, locking in moisture and allowing the masala filling to meld with the marinated shellfish. The result is a harmonious blend of savoury, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself.

Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste and even prep the filling ahead of time for quicker assembly.

In conclusion, these juicy masala-stuffed prawns deliver everything you want in a seafood dish, flavour, texture, and visual appeal. Try it out and bring a little spice to your table today. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag us. Enjoy every bite!

Also Try other delicious recipes:

• Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
• Delicious Shrimp Pineapple Skewers Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I properly butterfly prawns for stuffing?

Using a sharp knife, slice each prawn midway through the back lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a pocket that holds the masala filling securely during baking without the prawn falling apart.

2. Can I make the masala filling before time?

Yes, the filling can be made a day before and stored in a container in refrigerator. This actually allows the spices more time to develop, making the stuffing even more flavorful when you’re ready to assemble and bake.

3. Can I grill these stuffed prawns instead of baking them?

Absolutely, place the stuffed prawns on a well-oiled grill over medium heat and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until fully cooked through. Just be gentle when flipping to keep the filling from spilling out.

4. How do I adjust the spice level to make it milder or hotter?

To tone down the heat, simply reduce or completely omit the chili powder from the masala filling. For extra spice, add a finely chopped fresh green chili or increase the chili powder to suit your preference.

5. What are the best ways to serve these masala stuffed prawns?

They work beautifully as a starter or appetizer on their own with a drizzle of the extra masala sauce on the side. For a complete meal, pair them with steamed basmati rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the bold spices.