If you’re on the hunt for a pasta dish with a fiery island twist, Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new obsession. This vibrant recipe swirls together perfectly cooked shrimp, vivid bell peppers, and a dreamy jerk-spiced cream sauce that will transport your tastebuds straight to the Caribbean. Each bite delivers a zippy kick, luscious mouthfeel, and pops of color, making it just as fun to look at as it is to eat. Whether you crave comfort food with an attitude or you’re hosting a laid-back dinner party, Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta offers deliciously bold flavor in every forkful.

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is that it races from simple pantry staples to show-stopping flavor thanks to just a few essential ingredients. Each item on this list has a special role, lending texture, creaminess, or that unmistakable Caribbean flair that makes this dish shine.

Fettuccine or linguine pasta (12 oz): Wide noodles keep the sauce clinging to every bite, but you can switch it up depending on your favorite pasta shape.
Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Tender, juicy shrimp are the star of the show; be sure they’re raw for maximum flavor when searing.
Jamaican jerk seasoning (2 tablespoons): The smoky, spicy blend is essential for that authentic kick—adjust more or less to your preferred heat.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps get the shrimp beautifully seared and prevents sticking.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds rich depth and helps the peppers and onions become soft and sweet.
Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds a burst of color and sweetness that balances the jerk heat.
Yellow bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings a sunny, visual pop and additional mild flavor.
Red onion (1/2, thinly sliced): Offers a gentle, sweet bite and beautiful contrast in the pan.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic warmth that ties the sauce and seafood together.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that irresistible silkiness in every spoonful of sauce.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Loosens up the cream and adds savory undertones without overpowering.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into the sauce for cheesy, nutty depth.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple essentials to enhance and balance the flavors.
Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish): Bright, punchy finishing touches that make every plate irresistible.

How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then drop in your pasta of choice. Cook it until just al dente—usually a minute less than the package instructions call for. This way, the pasta holds up beautifully once it’s tossed in the creamy Caribbean sauce. Once done, drain and set aside, saving just a splash of the cooking water in case you want to thin the sauce later.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, lay your shrimp out on a plate and sprinkle generously with Jamaican jerk seasoning. Gently toss to coat all sides—don’t be shy! If time allows, you can even let them rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. The jerk seasoning infuses the shrimp with spicy, smoky warmth right from the start.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, just until they’re pink and curled. Remove shrimp to a plate so they don’t overcook; you want them succulent and juicy!

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet (don’t clean it—those tasty brown bits build flavor), melt in the butter. Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion, and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and a bit caramelized around the edges. Throw in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds more—until fragrant, not burnt.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir thoroughly, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let the mixture bubble softly for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir again as the cheese melts, creating a rich, silky sauce that clings to everything in its path.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Add the seared shrimp back to the skillet, then toss in your cooked pasta. With tongs or two large spoons, keep everything moving so the noodles get slick with sauce and the veggies and shrimp are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you like your sauce a bit thinner, splash in a little reserved pasta water. Serve immediately, garnished with a flurry of fresh parsley or sliced green onions.

How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

To make each plate truly pop, scatter plenty of chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions on top of your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. The herbs add a burst of color and freshness, while a squeeze of lime over the top can take the dish to the next level. For a bolder finish, sprinkle on an extra pinch of jerk seasoning or a bit more Parmesan for a little island-meets-Italy magic.

Side Dishes

While this pasta stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with a crisp, citrusy salad helps balance the richness of the cream sauce. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted plantains or a tropical fruit salsa add a sweet, unexpected twist that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party presentation, serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta in shallow bowls, twirling the noodles high with shrimp perched on top. Or, spoon into hollowed-out roasted bell peppers for individual, edible “boats.” For a lighter touch, serve smaller portions as an appetizer alongside vibrant Jamaican-style slaw.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta stores surprisingly well for up to two days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce tends to thicken as it sits, but the flavors become even more pronounced. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing and popping it in the fridge.

Freezing

While pasta dishes with cream sauces aren’t always freezer-friendly, you can freeze Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with a little care. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe, airtight container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and know the sauce may separate slightly (just stir vigorously when reheating).

Reheating

To reheat, warm portions gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Microwaving for short bursts also works, but the stovetop method keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce smooth. Finish with fresh green onions or parsley if you have them.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just as well—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning, so the jerk spices stick and the shrimp sear properly without steaming.

Is Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta spicy?

The spiciness depends on how much jerk seasoning you use. Authentic jerk seasoning packs some heat, but you can always dial it up or down to suit your taste, or use a mild blend if making it family-friendly.

Can I substitute the cream for coconut milk?

Definitely! Swapping in full-fat coconut milk for heavy cream gives a rich, slightly sweet twist and a dairy-free spin, while keeping the sauce perfectly smooth and luscious—a true Caribbean flavor boost.

What type Main Course

Fettuccine or linguine are ideal for holding onto the sauce, but you can use penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free noodles if you prefer. Just aim for a pasta shape that can cradle the creamy sauce and shrimp with each bite.

How do I make this vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The jerk cream sauce pairs well with plenty of veggies!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate quick, crowd-pleasing dinner when you crave something adventurous yet comforting. It’s bold, flavorful, and comes together in under 40 minutes. Give it a try—you might just find yourself coming back for seconds (or thirds)!

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean with this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta recipe. A perfect blend of spicy Jamaican jerk seasoning, succulent shrimp, and creamy sauce tossed with fettuccine for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Seasoning and Vegetables:

2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)

Sauce and Garnish:

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water, drain, and set aside.
Season and Cook Shrimp: Coat shrimp in jerk seasoning, cook in olive oil until pink, then set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: Cook bell peppers, onion, and garlic in butter until softened.
Make the Sauce: Add cream, broth, and Parmesan to the skillet. Simmer, then return shrimp and pasta, tossing to coat.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve.