15-Minute Creamy Prawn and Parmesan Bake
A simple, elegant appetizer or light main featuring succulent prawns folded into tangy cream cheese and mustard, topped with crispy Parmesan and finished in a hot oven. The French mustard adds subtle heat while spring onions provide freshness. Serve as an impressive starter for dinner parties or a quick weeknight meal. This version relies on quality cooked prawns and creamy cheese for effortless sophistication.
Ingredients
- 14 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon French mustard, or Dijonwhole grain mustard1:1condiment
earthier flavor
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 6 ounce cooked shrimp, or shrimpscallops1:1proteinadds shellfish
sweeter flavor
- Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
- 2
Mix cream cheese, mustard, green onions and shrimp until well combined.
- 3
Divide mixture evenly among 4 individual ovenproof dishes and press gently to level.
- 4
Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan.
- 5
Bake until golden and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
Tips
Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing without overworking the delicate prawns.
Watch baking time carefully; 3-5 minutes prevents drying. Cheese should just turn golden.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered up to 2 days before baking. Do not freeze after assembly; freezing separates cream cheese.
Mix and portion into dishes up to 4 hours ahead. Top with Parmesan and bake fresh just before serving.
Serve immediately from the oven while cheese is crispy and filling is warm. Pair with crusty bread or a crisp white wine.
Common Mistakes
Overmix to avoid breaking prawns into small pieces
Watch baking time to avoid drying out cream cheese, which weeps fat when overcooked
Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps and uneven mixing
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
earthier flavor
sweeter flavor
FAQ
Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture, which can water down the cream cheese mixture and affect baking time.
What if I don't have individual ovenproof dishes?
Use one shallow baking dish and divide evenly. Watch closely; cooking time may increase slightly due to different heat distribution.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 2 days covered. Reheat gently in a 300F oven for 5-8 minutes. Do not microwave, which makes the texture grainy.