Name: Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 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; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 13 reviews

If you’re craving a meal that truly dazzles in both flavor and comfort, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight is here to whisk you away to the Caribbean—right from your own kitchen. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp, crisp-tender vegetables, and a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with zesty Jamaican jerk seasoning creates a symphony of tastes and textures that’s as vibrant as the tropics themselves. Whether you’re hoping for a quick, easy weeknight meal or looking to wow friends at your next get-together, this dish promises a creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying experience you’ll want to recreate again and again.

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight starts with a lineup of fresh, straightforward ingredients. Each element brings its own personality—from silky coconut milk for richness to lively bell pepper for bursts of color—contributing to the irresistible character of the final dish.

Fettuccine or linguine pasta: These long, tender noodles are the perfect canvas to capture the creamy, spicy sauce.
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh, meaty shrimp absorb all those wonderful Caribbean flavors and cook up quickly.
Olive oil: A touch of olive oil helps sauté the aromatics and brings out their depth.
Medium onion, finely chopped: Onions offer a gentle sweetness and form the flavor base for the sauce.
Garlic cloves, minced: Just a couple of cloves unlock that signature aromatic boost.
Bell pepper, diced (red or yellow): Sweet and colorful, peppers provide crunch and brighten up every bite.
Coconut milk (14-ounce can): Creamy coconut milk gives the sauce its signature velvety richness.
Jamaican jerk seasoning: This joyful spice blend delivers warmth, complexity, and a true taste of Jamaica.
Fresh lime juice: Lime juice ties everything together with its tangy zing—don’t skip it!
Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings heighten all the bold flavors in the dish.
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note as a final touch.
Lime wedges, for serving: Squeezing extra lime at the table brightens the creamy sauce beautifully.

How to Make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add your chosen fettuccine or linguine and cook until the noodles are perfectly al dente—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s the hidden secret to creating a sauce that clings to every strand.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

While the pasta’s going, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it slowly soften, releasing a subtle sweetness into your kitchen. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, letting their flavors mingle and brighten for another couple of minutes—your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Turn up the heat just a bit and nestle those gorgeous shrimp into the pan. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and that essential Jamaican jerk seasoning. Sauté until they’re firm, pink, and irresistibly fragrant—usually just 3 to 4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

As soon as the shrimp are perfectly cooked, pour in the creamy coconut milk and squeeze in fresh lime juice. Give everything a good stir, then let the sauce simmer gently. You want all the flavors to meld and thicken, creating that signature creaminess. If the sauce feels too heavy, add a bit of your reserved pasta water until it reaches a silky, scoopable consistency.

Step 5: Combine

Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet, tossing gently so every strand is coated in luscious, spicy sauce. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or even another sprinkle of jerk seasoning if you’re feeling bold. This is the moment where Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight truly comes together in all its glory.

Step 6: Serve

Top with swirls of chopped fresh cilantro and tuck a few lime wedges alongside. Serve immediately—hot, creamy, and packed with flavor—so all of your senses get the full island experience.

How to Serve Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped cilantro sprinkled on top adds a flash of color and herby brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Don’t forget those lime wedges, as their citrusy zing wakes up all the flavors on the plate—just a quick squeeze over your serving heightens the whole dish.

Side Dishes

Pair Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread, toasted baguette slices, or even lightly charred sweet corn work wonderfully to scoop up any extra sauce lingering on your plate—because you don’t want a drop to go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate your presentation, swirl the pasta into high piles on each plate and top with a few perfectly cooked shrimp. A sprinkle of chopped red chili or a few halved cherry tomatoes can add a pop of contrast and color, making this already stunning dish feel restaurant-ready. Serve in shallow bowls for a cozy, comforting vibe that highlights just how inviting and creamy this meal is.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, developing even deeper flavor—just be sure to cool completely before covering and refrigerating.

Freezing

While Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight is at its best fresh, you can freeze it in a pinch. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one month. Be aware that the texture of the shrimp and sauce may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavors will still sing.

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or milk to reawaken the creamy sauce. Stir frequently to avoid overcooking the shrimp, and finish with fresh cilantro or lime for a just-made feel.

FAQs

Can I use precooked shrimp?

Yes, you can use precooked shrimp, but for maximum flavor and tenderness, raw shrimp is best. If using precooked, add them only at the very end to heat through so they don’t become tough or rubbery.

Is regular pasta okay, or should I use gluten-free?

You can absolutely use gluten-free pasta! Whether you pick wheat-based or gluten-free noodles, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight turns out beautifully. Just cook according to your pasta’s package instructions for perfect texture.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

No problem—substitute with fresh parsley or even thinly sliced green onions! The garnish is all about a refreshing finish, so play with herbs you enjoy.

How spicy is Jamaican jerk seasoning?

The heat level varies by brand, but jerk seasoning typically mixes warmth with complex spices. If your blend is fiery, you can use less or add extra coconut milk to mellow the spice to your liking.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Try folding in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini. This recipe is flexible, so you can personalize your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight with your favorite veggies for added nutrition and flair.

Final Thoughts

Each bite of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight is like taking a mini-vacation—vibrant, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the inviting aromas of the Caribbean. Once you make this dish, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your rotation!