Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish captures everything that makes Jamaican cuisine so irresistible—spicy, smoky, and aromatic flavors paired with creamy richness and juicy shrimp. The jerk seasoning gives it a bold kick, while the pasta and sauce mellow everything into a harmonious, satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and customizable to your spice preference. Perfect for seafood lovers, spice enthusiasts, and anyone looking to elevate their pasta night.
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Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy, Spicy Island-Inspired Delight
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a spicy, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean to your table — featuring tender shrimp tossed in a rich jerk-seasoned cream sauce with fettuccine or linguine pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Pat shrimp dry and toss them in 1 tablespoon of jerk seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and remaining jerk seasoning, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, coconut milk, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in lime juice, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by using mild or hot jerk seasoning depending on your preference.
- Substitute chicken or tofu for shrimp for an alternative protein option.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
- Pairs perfectly with garlic bread or fried plantains for a full Caribbean-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Large Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined)
The star of the dish—sweet, tender, and quick to cook.
Pasta (Linguine, Fettuccine, or Penne)
A sturdy pasta shape that holds up beautifully to the creamy jerk sauce.
Olive Oil
Used to sauté the shrimp and vegetables while adding depth of flavor.
Butter
Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
The signature spice blend of this dish—smoky, spicy, and packed with herbs. Use store-bought or homemade.
Garlic
A must for aromatic depth and that irresistible savory note.
Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, or Green)
Add color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
Onion
Sautéed for a slightly caramelized, savory base.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk
Creates a luscious, creamy sauce—coconut milk adds a tropical twist, while cream gives classic richness.
Parmesan Cheese (Optional)
Adds a salty, umami finish if you prefer a creamier Italian-style sauce.
Fresh Lime Juice
Brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
Fresh Thyme or Parsley
Adds freshness and a beautiful finishing touch.
Salt and Black Pepper
To enhance and balance the bold flavors.
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Season and Sear the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and toss with 1–2 teaspoons of jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and lightly seared. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté onions and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk) and 1–2 teaspoons of jerk seasoning. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until thickened slightly. Add Parmesan if using, and stir until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Return shrimp to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, and serve hot.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes prep time and 20 minutes cooking time.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Variations and Customizations
Coconut Jerk Pasta
Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream for a tropical, dairy-free option.
Spicy Cajun Fusion
Mix Jamaican jerk and Cajun seasoning for a double dose of Southern heat.
Vegetable Boost
Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Cheesy Twist
Stir in shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a rich, melty sauce.
Surf and Turf Version
Add sliced grilled chicken or steak alongside the shrimp for a hearty meal.
Smoky Sweet Jerk Sauce
Stir in a teaspoon of brown sugar or honey for a sweet-heat balance.
Rasta Pasta Style
Skip the cheese, use coconut milk, and add more bell peppers for a traditional Jamaican-style Rasta Pasta twist.
Creamy Garlic Upgrade
Add roasted garlic or a splash of garlic butter to enhance the flavor.
Lobster or Crab Swap
Replace shrimp with lobster chunks or lump crab meat for a decadent seafood upgrade.
Low-Carb Option
Serve the sauce and shrimp over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
How spicy is Jamaican jerk seasoning?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat by using less or adding more cream.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through—don’t overcook.
What kind of pasta works best?
Linguine, fettuccine, or penne all hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely—use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the cheese.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
What vegetables go well in this?
Bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and scallions all complement the flavors beautifully.
How can I make it extra creamy?
Add an extra splash of cream or cheese at the end and simmer briefly.
Can I use homemade jerk seasoning?
Yes! A mix of allspice, thyme, garlic, cayenne, and nutmeg makes an excellent homemade version.
What can I serve with this pasta?
Garlic bread, fried plantains, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly.
Conclusion
Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate fusion of spice, creaminess, and comfort—a dish that brings the islands right to your dinner table. The jerk-spiced shrimp and velvety sauce coat each strand of pasta with bold, unforgettable flavor. It’s quick to make, full of personality, and guaranteed to become a new favorite. Whether you make it creamy with heavy cream or tropical with coconut milk, this pasta captures the soul of Caribbean cuisine in every bite—vibrant, fiery, and absolutely delicious.
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