If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold Caribbean flavors and creamy indulgence, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is your answer. This easy, flavorful recipe fuses the warmth of Jamaican jerk seasoning with rich coconut milk and tender shrimp, all tossed with al dente pasta for a tropical twist on classic comfort food.
Whether you’re cooking a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something unique, this vibrant, creamy pasta dish is guaranteed to deliver flavor, warmth, and a little island flair—with minimal prep and cooking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Big Bold Flavor: Jerk seasoning, coconut milk, and lime juice pack a punch.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your taste.
- Beautiful Presentation: Vibrant colors and textures for an eye-catching dish.
- Great for Entertaining: Simple ingredients, elevated flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta for four:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (use red or yellow for color and sweetness)
- 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
- 1 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes). Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Set pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and bell pepper, cooking another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Increase heat to medium-high. Add shrimp to the skillet and season with jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in coconut milk and lime juice. Stir well and simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
5. Combine and Finish
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat with sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For best flavor, use fresh or thawed shrimp and pat them dry before cooking.
- Control the Heat: Start with a small amount of jerk seasoning and build up to your spice preference.
- Add Veggies: Customize with cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
- Want it Creamier? Add a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone to boost richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Presentation: Serve in wide bowls with shrimp on top for a restaurant-quality look.
- Pairings: Garlic bread, a citrusy green salad, or roasted veggies work beautifully.
- Wine: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best texture, store shrimp and sauce separately from pasta if possible.
- Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of coconut milk or water.
- Freezing: Freeze the sauce (without pasta or shrimp) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and add fresh shrimp and cooked pasta when reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink.
- Skipping Pasta Water: Helps emulsify the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
- Forgetting to Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually to suit your taste.
- Mushy Pasta: Cook pasta just to al dente—it will soften slightly in the sauce.
- Not Letting the Sauce Simmer: Give it a few minutes to develop deeper flavor.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Proteins: Try chicken, scallops, or tofu instead of shrimp.
- Go Vegetarian: Use mushrooms or chickpeas as a hearty substitute.
- Add Heat: Kick it up with Scotch bonnet peppers or hot sauce.
- Try a Different Base: Serve over rice, quinoa, or even spiralized veggies.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess water in the skillet.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta or serve over rice or quinoa.
Can I prep this ahead?
Yes—chop veggies and marinate shrimp in advance for faster assembly.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store and reheat gently with a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a tropical twist on a classic comfort dish, bringing the fiery flavors of jerk seasoning together with cooling coconut cream and succulent shrimp. It’s a fast, flavorful recipe that feels like a Caribbean vacation in a bowl—no passport required.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta will have everyone asking for seconds. So fire up your skillet and let the flavors transport you to the islands!