Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a dish that perfectly marries the bold and fiery flavors of Jamaican cuisine with the rich, velvety texture of a creamy pasta sauce. The jerk-seasoned shrimp adds a smoky spice, while the coconut milk brings a tropical silkiness to the dish. The balance of flavors creates a comforting yet exciting meal that will transport you straight to the Caribbean with every bite.

What makes this dish truly special is how easy it is to prepare while still feeling gourmet. The combination of fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a luscious coconut-based sauce ensures a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or looking to impress guests, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
1 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the shrimp, season with jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper for about 3 minutes until softened.
Pour in the coconut milk, heavy cream, and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Add the Parmesan cheese, lime juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir and let the sauce thicken slightly.
Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until well coated in the creamy sauce.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and let everything heat through for another minute.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta – A Flavorful Caribbean-Inspired Dish

Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fragrant spices, and vibrant ingredients. This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta brings together the richness of coconut milk, the spice of jerk seasoning, and the succulence of shrimp, all tossed in a silky, flavorful sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a fusion dish that combines Caribbean warmth with Italian comfort, making it a favorite for anyone who loves creamy, spicy, and savory meals.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

If you enjoy restaurant-quality meals that are easy to prepare at home, this pasta dish is a must-try. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prepping. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

Burst of Flavor – The jerk seasoning infuses the shrimp and sauce with a smoky, spicy kick, while coconut milk and cream mellow out the heat, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
Quick and Easy – You can have this meal on the table in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy days.
Rich and Creamy – The combination of coconut milk and heavy cream results in a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Customizable – This dish can be adapted to suit your taste by adjusting the spice level, changing the type of pasta, or adding extra veggies.

The Inspiration Behind This Recipe

Jamaican cuisine has deep African, Indian, and European influences, which is why many of its dishes are rich in spices and layered flavors. Jerk seasoning is a staple in Jamaican cooking, made with ingredients like scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, garlic, and ginger. It gives food an unmistakable heat and smokiness that works incredibly well with seafood.

In this dish, shrimp is the star ingredient, and its natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the fiery jerk seasoning. The creamy coconut-based sauce is a nod to classic Caribbean flavors, offering a delicious contrast to the spice while keeping the dish light yet indulgent.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For the best results, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

Shrimp – Opt for fresh or frozen large shrimp that have been deveined and peeled. Shrimp cook quickly, so they remain juicy and tender when prepared properly.
Jerk Seasoning – You can use a store-bought blend, but for a more authentic flavor, consider making your own with allspice, thyme, garlic, paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chili peppers.
Coconut Milk – Full-fat coconut milk is ideal for a rich and creamy texture. It enhances the Caribbean flavor while adding a natural sweetness.
Pasta – Linguine or fettuccine work best as they hold the sauce well, but you can also use penne or spaghetti.
Vegetables – Bell peppers add color and a slight crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the sauce. You can also add mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for extra depth.

How to Adjust the Spice Level

Jamaican cuisine is famous for its bold use of spices, but not everyone enjoys intense heat. Here’s how to control the spice level:

Milder Flavor: Use a mild jerk seasoning or reduce the amount of spice. You can also add extra coconut milk and cream to tone down the heat.
Medium Heat: Stick to the recipe as is, using regular jerk seasoning and a bit of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
Extra Spicy: Add finely chopped scotch bonnet peppers or extra cayenne pepper for an authentic fiery taste.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

To make this meal even more special, consider pairing it with a delicious side dish. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread – The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread.
Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed or sautéed broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini add freshness and balance.
Caribbean Salad – A simple salad with mango, avocado, and citrus dressing complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
Fried Plantains – Sweet plantains offer a lovely contrast to the spicy, creamy pasta.

Variations and Substitutions

If you want to make this recipe your own, there are plenty of ways to customize it:

Make It Dairy-Free – Replace heavy cream with additional coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Try a Different Protein – If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can use chicken, salmon, or even tofu.
Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta – For a healthier option, swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
Add More Vegetables – Mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or corn can all enhance the dish.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to remove them from the pan once they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, onion, and bell peppers will make a big difference in flavor.
Balance the Sauce – If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the creamy sauce thickens over time.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of coconut milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving on high heat, as shrimp can become rubbery. Instead, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a dish that brings together the bold flavors of the Caribbean with the comforting appeal of a creamy pasta. Whether you’re a fan of Jamaican food or simply looking for a unique and delicious seafood pasta dish, this recipe is a winner. The combination of spicy, smoky jerk seasoning, silky coconut sauce, and tender shrimp creates an unforgettable meal that is easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for special occasions.

This dish is all about balance—the heat of the jerk seasoning, the richness of the coconut milk, the freshness of the shrimp, and the comforting texture of pasta all come together to create something truly special. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you can make it exactly how you like it.

So next time you’re craving a meal that’s both exotic and satisfying, give this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta a try. You’ll be transported straight to the Caribbean with every bite!

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