If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Caribbean flavors yet comes together in under 30 minutes, then this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp swimming in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with zesty lime and spicy jerk seasoning, all tossed with silky pasta that soaks up every drop of that wonderful sauce. It’s a delightful fusion of tropical vibes and comfort food that’s both exciting and unbelievably satisfying—trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building a balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave you smiling with every bite. From the sweetness of coconut milk to the punchy kick of jerk seasoning, these essentials come together beautifully to create a dish that’s as simple as it is spectacular.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined, these add a fresh, juicy protein element that cooks quickly.
- Pasta (8 ounces): Fettuccine or linguine work best for soaking up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Brings sweetness and depth when lightly cooked.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Offers an irresistible aroma and savory punch.
- Bell pepper (1, diced): Adds color, crunch, and fresh flavor—red or yellow brighten the dish.
- Coconut milk (14 ounces): The heart of the creamy sauce, lending a silky texture and mild sweetness.
- Jamaican jerk seasoning (1 tablespoon): Packs the dish with island flair, adjusting to your preferred spice level.
- Fresh lime juice (1 tablespoon): Adds the perfect citrus zing to balance richness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Bright and herbal garnish that adds a fresh finish.
- Lime wedges: For an extra burst of acidity when serving.
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 pasta until it’s perfectly al dente — tender but with a slight bite. Don’t forget to save about a cup of that pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy liquid will help you adjust the sauce texture later on, making everything beautifully creamy and silky.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it cook gently until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add your minced garlic and diced bell pepper, stirring for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and tender but still vibrant. This mix creates a flavorful base that brings delightful sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Now it’s time for the star of the show. Add your peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and that wonderfully aromatic Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes, turning them until they’re pink, plump, and just cooked through—be careful not to overdo it or they’ll get rubbery.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the coconut milk and fresh lime juice, stirring gently as the sauce begins to simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes so the flavors marry and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up—this trick guarantees your pasta gets perfectly coated with luscious creaminess.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return your drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat every strand in the sauce. Taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. This step is where all the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a harmonious, mouthwatering meal.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Finish everything off by sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro over the top and adding lime wedges on the side. These final touches bring freshness, color, and a zingy brightness that elevates every forkful.
How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the perfect herbaceous finish to cut through the richness, while lime wedges provide an optional citrus kick. You can also add a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of extra jerk seasoning for those who want a bit more spice or aroma at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette to refresh the palate. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also fantastic companions, perfect for mopping up every bit of that creamy sauce. For a heartier meal, some roasted vegetables or seasoned black beans bring complementary textures and earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive presentation, serve the pasta in large shallow bowls and garnish generously with cilantro sprigs and lime wedges arranged artfully on the side. Adding colorful edible flowers or a few slices of fresh mango can make the dish truly pop visually and elevate the dining experience, especially for dinner parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, store the shrimp pasta separately from any additional garnish like cilantro and lime wedges so those stay fresh.
Freezing
Because of the creamy coconut sauce, freezing this dish is not ideal as it can affect the sauce’s texture and cause separation upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated to truly savor the intended silky consistency and vibrant taste.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. Avoid microwaving if possible for best flavor and texture preservation.
FAQs
Can I use another type of seafood instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! While shrimp shines in this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe, you can substitute with scallops, chunks of firm white fish, or even crab meat for a different but still delicious Caribbean-inspired twist.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Jerk seasoning can vary in heat depending on the brand or recipe. To tone it down, start with half the recommended amount and gradually add more to taste. You can also balance heat with extra coconut milk or lime juice to mellow the spices.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine and linguine are suggested here because their flat shapes pick up the creamy sauce wonderfully, but feel free to use spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free alternatives depending on what you have on hand.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can chop the onions, garlic, and bell pepper a day ahead and keep them refrigerated in a sealed container. Cooking the shrimp fresh is best to retain tenderness, but the sauce and pasta can be prepped shortly before serving for convenience.
Is this dish suitable for dairy-free diets?
Definitely! This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe uses coconut milk instead of cream, making it a perfect creamy, dairy-free meal that’s rich and full of flavor without any lactose.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comfort of a home-cooked dish that brings a little sunshine and spice straight to your dinner plate. The Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe is not just easy to make; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and creamy textures that will brighten any weeknight. I encourage you to dive in, experiment with your favorite tweaks, and make this vibrant recipe a beloved fixture in your kitchen. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Print
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Description
This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta combines succulent shrimp with a rich, coconut milk-based sauce infused with vibrant Jamaican jerk seasoning. Tossed with tender fettuccine or linguine and fresh bell peppers, this flavorful dish brings a tropical twist to classic creamy pasta in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or linguine recommended)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk and add the fresh lime juice. Stir to combine and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or jerk seasoning as desired.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve alongside lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- You can substitute fettuccine or linguine with other long pasta like spaghetti or tagliatelle.
- Adjust the amount of Jamaican jerk seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Reserving the pasta water is essential for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or substitute coconut milk with full-fat cream (note this would alter the vegan suitability).
- This dish can be made gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta.
