The flavors of Jamaica meet creamy, comforting pasta in this bold and delicious dish. With a perfect balance of heat from Scotch bonnet pepper, rich coconut milk, and savory shrimp, every bite is a taste of the Caribbean. The spices bring warmth and depth, making this a standout meal for spice lovers.
Not only is this dish easy to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for the weekend, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress. Pair it with a crisp salad or some warm garlic bread, and you have a restaurant-worthy meal at home.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, green)
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
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 shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic, allspice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and coconut milk. Stir well and let simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese and lime juice, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta, mixing well to combine everything. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 490 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta – A Flavorful Caribbean Delight
Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold spices, rich flavors, and unique fusion of ingredients that create unforgettable dishes. One such dish that brings together the warmth of the Caribbean with the creamy indulgence of pasta is Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. This recipe perfectly balances the heat of traditional jerk spices with the smoothness of coconut milk and heavy cream, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
The Inspiration Behind This Dish
Jamaican cuisine is deeply influenced by a mix of African, European, and Indian flavors. This pasta dish takes the traditional elements of jerk seasoning, known for its blend of allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, and smoked paprika, and combines them with Italian-style creamy pasta. The result? A fusion dish that brings the best of both worlds—heat and creaminess, spice and smoothness, richness and freshness.
Jerk seasoning is an essential component of this dish, giving the shrimp and sauce that signature smoky and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of spice. While jerk chicken and jerk pork are more commonly known, jerk shrimp adds a seafood twist, making it lighter while still retaining the full-bodied taste of the Caribbean.
Why This Dish Stands Out
This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is not your ordinary seafood pasta. It’s a vibrant dish with layers of complex flavors that will impress anyone who takes a bite.
- Spice and Creaminess in Perfect Harmony – The combination of fiery Scotch bonnet pepper with cooling coconut milk creates a balanced heat that doesn’t overwhelm the palate.
- Rich and Velvety Texture – The sauce, made from coconut milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats every strand of pasta, making it irresistibly smooth.
- Packed with Caribbean Essence – The addition of jerk seasoning, allspice, and thyme ensures that every forkful is bursting with island flavors.
- Quick and Easy to Make – Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive weekend dinner.
Key Ingredients That Elevate the Dish
While the complete ingredient list ensures a harmonious blend of flavors, there are a few key ingredients that truly make this dish unique:
- Shrimp – Using fresh or frozen shrimp makes this dish protein-rich, and its natural sweetness complements the spices.
- Jerk Seasoning – A must-have in Caribbean cooking, jerk seasoning brings depth, warmth, and a smoky aroma.
- Coconut Milk – This ingredient adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess while enhancing the tropical feel of the dish.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper – If you love heat, this is the pepper for you! It’s hot but fruity, giving the pasta a signature Jamaican kick.
- Parmesan Cheese – While not traditionally Caribbean, it adds a savory umami taste that blends well with the creamy sauce.
- Lime Juice – A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the dish, balancing the richness with a zesty, citrusy freshness.
Best Pasta Choices for This Recipe
Choosing the right type of pasta can make a difference in the overall experience. The sauce is rich and creamy, so using pasta that can hold onto the sauce is ideal. Here are the best options:
- Linguine – The slightly flat shape allows the sauce to cling to the noodles well.
- Fettuccine – A classic choice for creamy pasta, as its wide ribbons hold the sauce beautifully.
- Penne or Rigatoni – If you prefer a short pasta, these are great options since they trap the creamy sauce inside.
How to Adjust the Spice Level
One of the best parts about this recipe is that you can customize the heat level to match your preference.
- Mild Version – Reduce or completely omit the Scotch bonnet pepper and use less jerk seasoning. The dish will still be flavorful without too much heat.
- Medium Spice – Keep the jerk seasoning as is, but use only half of a Scotch bonnet pepper for just a gentle kick.
- Extra Spicy – If you love fiery flavors, add a full Scotch bonnet pepper with seeds, and sprinkle in some extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Pairing This Dish with the Perfect Side
Although this pasta dish is filling on its own, pairing it with the right side dish can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread – A crusty slice of buttery garlic bread complements the creaminess of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables – A side of broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Jamaican Rice and Peas – A classic Caribbean side, this dish brings even more authentic island flavor to your meal.
- Tropical Fruit Salad – The sweetness of mango, pineapple, and papaya balances out the heat and spices.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain the taste and texture of the dish.
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Warm it up gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or coconut milk to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery.
- Freezing? Not Recommended – Due to the dairy content and shrimp, freezing can alter the texture and taste. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s easy to tweak based on your dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are some ideas:
- Make it Dairy-Free – Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast and use a coconut milk-only base for a fully dairy-free version.
- Add More Vegetables – Bell peppers are already in the dish, but adding mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can boost the nutritional value.
- Switch Up the Protein – Instead of shrimp, try grilled chicken, lobster, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta – For a healthier option, substitute regular pasta with a whole wheat or gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a fusion dish that brings together the best of Caribbean and Italian flavors. The combination of rich, spicy, and creamy elements makes it a standout meal that is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. The bold jerk spices, succulent shrimp, and velvety sauce create a dish that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
This recipe offers versatility, allowing you to adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, and add your favorite elements to make it truly your own. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just looking for a new pasta dish to try, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is guaranteed to satisfy. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that celebrates the warmth and richness of Caribbean cuisine.
Now, grab your ingredients and transport yourself to a tropical paradise with each bite! 🍤🌴