Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you love a hearty, flavor-packed meal that transports you straight to the Caribbean, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta should be at the very top of your must-cook list. Picture juicy shrimp tossed in bold jerk spices, nestled with sautéed peppers and onions, all wrapped up in a rich, creamy sauce that hugs every bite of pasta. It’s the kind of dish that lights up a dinner table, perfect whether you’re looking to shake up weeknight dinners or impress your friends on a special occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is how it takes simple, everyday ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. Each element here brings a unique punch of taste, color, or creaminess, so don’t skip out—let every ingredient play its part!

• 12 ounces linguine or penne pasta: These shapes grab that creamy sauce beautifully and serve as the hearty, comforting base of the dish.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Plump, succulent shrimp soak up all those spices and star as the protein-packed centerpiece.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté, adds rich flavor, and gets all the spices moving.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings a sweet crunch and a pop of jewel-like red color.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Adds another layer of sweetness and a sunny yellow shade for visual appeal.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced: Sautéed until soft, it lends a subtle tang and gorgeous color contrast.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: For that unmistakably aromatic, savory backbone.
• 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning: The heart of the dish—spicy, sweet, and smoky, it gives the pasta that signature island kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smokiness of the jerk blend and deepens the savory notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to heighten all those wonderful flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle lift of heat and bite.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luscious, silky, and indulgent.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds a savory base note and loosens the sauce just right.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for irresistible creaminess and a little salty tang.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A sprinkle of vibrant green freshness to finish the dish.
• Juice of 1/2 lime: A final squeeze brightens and balances all the warm, bold flavors.
• Optional: extra jerk seasoning or red pepper flakes for more heat: Customize the spice level exactly to your taste.

How to Make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your linguine or penne and cook it until perfectly al dente—it should have a little bite when you taste it. Drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it handy because things come together fast in the next steps!

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Move them out of the pan and onto a plate so they don’t overcook—their time to shine will come soon.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet (no need to clean it; those shrimpy bits are flavor gold), add your red and yellow bell peppers, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until everything is softened and your kitchen smells like a Caribbean breeze.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Give it a good stir, making sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. It should thicken slightly and take on a dreamy, velvety texture that will make you want to sneak a spoonful.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated and cozy in the sauce. Squeeze in the lime juice and sprinkle over chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning; add more jerk or red pepper flakes if you crave an extra kick.

How to Serve Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh parsley or extra shavings of Parmesan cheese elevates the dish beautifully. For those who love heat, dust on a little more jerk seasoning or scatter some red pepper flakes over the top. A wedge of lime on the side adds just the right touch for an extra zip of brightness.

Side Dishes

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a star on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh accompaniments. Try a crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette or buttery garlic bread perfect for scooping up extra sauce. For a true Caribbean meal, serve it alongside some sweet fried plantains or a cooling cucumber salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta for a special gathering by serving it family-style on a big platter, garnished with ribbons of bell peppers and a scattering of fresh herbs. For a fancier touch, plate individual portions twirled high with shrimp perched on top. Even try serving in shallow bowls to catch every drop of that irresistible creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, let the Jamaican Shrimp Pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making lunch or a quick dinner just a microwave away.

Freezing

While cream sauces can sometimes separate after freezing, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta can be frozen if you need to save it for later. Just portion it in freezer-safe containers and store up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual servings with a damp paper towel over the top to keep moisture in. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This ensures you get a great sear and prevents excess water from diluting the flavors.

How spicy is Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?

The heat level depends entirely on your jerk seasoning and whether you add extra pepper flakes. Start mild and build up—taste as you go! You control the fire.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The result will be just as luscious with an extra touch of tropical flair.

Which pasta shape works best?

Linguine and penne both catch the creamy sauce well, but you can substitute with fettuccine or rotini if you have those on hand. Choose a shape that holds the sauce and allows the shrimp and peppers to nestle in.

What’s the best way to adjust the heat?

If you want more spice, simply add extra jerk seasoning or a pinch of cayenne. For a milder version, use less jerk and omit red pepper flakes altogether.

Final Thoughts

Give Jamaican Shrimp Pasta a spot at your dinner table and let its bold, comforting flavors win you over. One bite and you’ll see why this fusion of creamy, spicy, and fresh is a favorite. Go ahead, bring some island sunshine to your next meal and share the love with friends and family!

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