Name: Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional); 2–3 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: chopped green onions, fresh thyme, lime juice, crushed red pepper

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Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, spicy, flavor-packed dish that brings bold island vibes right to my dinner table. With juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich, seasoned cream sauce infused with Caribbean spices, this meal is a true comfort food with a tropical kick. I love how it balances heat, creaminess, and savory depth in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both exciting and easy to make. The combination of jerk seasoning, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked shrimp creates a dish that tastes like it came straight from a beachside restaurant. It’s impressive enough for guests but quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Every time I make it, it’s a hit.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
Olive oil or butter
Onion, finely chopped
Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and black pepper
Optional: green onions, thyme, lime juice, or crushed red pepper for extra heat

directions

I cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain and set it aside.
I season the shrimp generously with jerk seasoning and a pinch of salt.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. I remove them and set aside.
In the same pan, I sauté onions and bell peppers until tender, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
I reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. I let it simmer gently until it starts to thicken.
I add the cooked pasta and toss until coated, then stir in the shrimp and let everything heat through.
I finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan, fresh green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in about 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use chicken instead of shrimp or add in mushrooms and spinach for extra veggies. For a dairy-free version, I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream—it adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the jerk seasoning. If I want a lighter option, I swap the pasta for zucchini noodles.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving the shrimp too long, since they can become rubbery.

FAQs

What kind of jerk seasoning should I use?

I use either a store-bought dry jerk seasoning or my own mix with allspice, thyme, cayenne, garlic, and brown sugar. Both work great—just adjust the spice level to taste.

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, I start with less jerk seasoning and skip the crushed red pepper if I want it milder. A squeeze of lime also helps balance the heat.

Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. I thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid extra water in the pan.

What pasta works best?

I prefer penne or linguine for this dish—they hold the sauce well. But I’ve used spaghetti, rigatoni, and even rotini with great results.

Can I make it ahead?

I usually make the sauce and pasta ahead, then cook the shrimp fresh and toss everything together before serving to keep the texture just right.

Conclusion

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, spicy delight that always satisfies my craving for bold flavor. With a perfect mix of Caribbean spices, rich sauce, and succulent shrimp, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether I’m serving it for a cozy dinner or sharing it with friends, it’s a recipe I come back to again and again.