If you are craving a dish that combines the rich flavors of the Caribbean with comforting Italian pasta, you have come to the right place. This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, blending succulent jerk-seasoned shrimp with a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to tender fettuccine or linguine. Every bite bursts with vibrant spices and silky texture, making it an ideal meal for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at your next dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step in creating this incredible dish. Each component adds its own unique flair, whether it’s the spicy kick of the jerk seasoning, the sweetness of bell peppers, or the creamy decadence of Parmesan and heavy cream.
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine: Use your favorite pasta for a comforting, chewy base that holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, shrimp bring a tender, slightly sweet seafood flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- 1 tbsp jerk seasoning: This is the heart of the dish, infusing the shrimp with bold, smoky, and spicy Caribbean vibes.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing shrimp and vegetables; it adds a subtle richness and helps build flavor.
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a pop of color and a sweet crunch that balances the heat.
- ½ yellow onion, sliced: Brings a savory depth and soft texture when sautéed.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, decadent base of the sauce that wraps the pasta and shrimp in deliciousness.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Lightens the cream slightly and adds a subtle savory background taste.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan: Gives the sauce a nutty, salty boost and helps it thicken to the perfect consistency.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to round out and highlight all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or linguine according to the package directions. Cooking the pasta just right ensures it has the ideal chewy texture to soak up all the flavors of the sauce later. Once done, drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with the shrimp and creamy sauce.
Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, toss the shrimp with the jerk seasoning so every piece is fully coated in that signature Caribbean spice blend. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, usually just a couple of minutes per side. This quick sauté locks in the shrimp’s tender juices and imparts wonderful flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper and yellow onion. Cooking them in the leftover shrimp juices adds layers of flavor and a touch of sweetness. Let the vegetables soften for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This combination thickens as it simmers, transforming into a rich and velvety sauce. Keep stirring gently and let it bubble for a few minutes to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Pasta
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together so each noodle and shrimp is luxuriously coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, bringing all the flavors into harmony before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe is now ready to be devoured! Serve it warm for the best experience of creamy, spicy, and savory goodness all in one bite.
How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes not only enhances the dish’s appearance but also layers in fresh flavors. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and brightness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can uplift the creamy sauce beautifully. For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top works wonders.
Side Dishes
This pasta is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy richness superbly. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is always a hit to mop up the luscious sauce. For a Caribbean-inspired touch, serve alongside some roasted sweet plantains or steamed vegetables for added texture and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe party-ready, consider serving it in individual skillet dishes right at the table. This presentation feels cozy and rustic, perfect for sharing. Alternatively, plate it elegantly twirled into nests with a shrimp perched on top, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy vibe that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this flavorful pasta should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before storing, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes reasonably well, especially if you keep the pasta and shrimp together in a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze within two hours of cooking and consume within 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the creamy sauce’s consistency and the shrimp’s tenderness.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much during reheating. Avoid using the microwave if possible to keep the texture and flavor intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which might affect the sauce’s texture.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Coconut milk can add a lovely tropical twist that complements the jerk seasoning.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the fettuccine or linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The creamy sauce and shrimp remain just as delicious.
How spicy is the jerk seasoning?
Jerk seasoning varies in heat, but it usually has a moderately spicy kick balanced with sweet and smoky notes. You can adjust the amount used based on your spice preference.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, warm the sauce gently and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of digging into a plateful of perfectly creamy, spicy, and flavorful shrimp pasta that transports you straight to the Caribbean. The Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe offers a fun twist on comfort food that’s quick to make but rich with taste. I can’t wait for you to try it at home and make it a new favorite in your cooking repertoire!
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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Description
A delicious and creamy Jamaican shrimp pasta dish featuring perfectly seasoned jerk-spiced shrimp sautéed with bell peppers and onions, all tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce over tender fettuccine or linguine. Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe brings a flavorful Caribbean twist to a classic pasta meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp jerk seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced
- ½ yellow onion, sliced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the fettuccine or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Season and sauté shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the jerk seasoning until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper and yellow onion. Cook and stir for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened but still retain some texture.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet with vegetables. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine shrimp and pasta: Return the cooked shrimp and drained pasta back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Jamaican shrimp pasta warm and enjoy this flavorful Caribbean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor; frozen can be used but should be thawed completely.
- Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning based on preferred spice level.
- Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though sauce will be less rich.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for added color and freshness.
