Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you are craving a heartwarming dish that bursts with bold flavors and silky textures, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine succulent shrimp seasoned with vibrant jerk spices, nestled in a luxuriously creamy sauce with tender bell peppers and onions, all wrapped around perfectly cooked fettuccine. It’s a dish that effortlessly combines Caribbean zest with classic Italian comfort, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients that each play an essential role in creating layers of flavor and enticing textures. From the spicy jerk seasoning that wakes up the shrimp, to the creamy Parmesan sauce that ties everything together, every component is thoughtfully chosen to deliver that one-of-a-kind taste experience.
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and juicy shrimp.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh, tender shrimp that soak up the jerk seasoning beautifully.
- 1 tbsp jerk seasoning: Adds that unmistakable Caribbean kick with a blend of spices and heat.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing shrimp and veggies to golden, flavorful perfection.
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced: Brings sweetness, crunch, and a pop of vibrant color.
- ½ yellow onion, sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and aromatic base to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient creating the decadently smooth sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and a subtle savory balance to the cream.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan: Introduces a nutty, salty richness that elevates the sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring the whole dish together.
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. Cook your fettuccine or linguine until it is al dente according to the package instructions—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Once perfectly tender yet firm to the bite, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish. This step is crucial to lay the foundation for a luxurious meal.
Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry and toss them generously with the jerk seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for about 2 minutes per side until the shrimp blush to a beautiful pink and turn opaque. This quick cooking locks in the juicy texture and brings out the vibrant spice notes. Remove shrimp and set aside, keeping all those delicious juices in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Bell Pepper and Onion
In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper and yellow onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds a sweet and savory base that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp and adds a cheerful splash of color to the dish.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from earlier. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken into a rich and velvety sauce that will cling to every strand of pasta and shrimp, making each bite utterly indulgent.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly so that every ingredient is coated in that luscious creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed – this finishing touch ensures your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe hits all the right flavor notes.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Your dish is now ready to be devoured! Serve it hot straight from the pan to enjoy the shrimp’s spicy kick and the sauce’s silky texture at their best. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat they won’t forget.
How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates your dish with texture and brightness. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of herbaceous green and a subtle contrast to the creamy sauce. A wedge of lime on the side offers an optional zesty squeeze to cut through the richness and highlight those island flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with simple sides that complement without overpowering it. A crunchy green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli work wonderfully. For a more tropical touch, serve alongside warm garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce, ensuring none of that creamy goodness goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re making this dish for a dinner party or special occasion, consider serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a few whole sautéed shrimp on top for a beautiful visual appeal. You could also sprinkle extra Parmesan or toasted coconut flakes for added texture. Little details like this make the experience feel extra special and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the shrimp is best eaten sooner rather than later to maintain its tender texture.
Freezing
While the creamy sauce and pasta can be frozen, shrimp tend to become rubbery after freezing. If you want to freeze portions, consider freezing just the pasta and sauce without shrimp, then adding fresh cooked shrimp when reheating. This approach preserves texture and flavor better.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, warm the pasta gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and avoid overcooking the shrimp. This way, you’ll enjoy a creamy, satisfying meal just as delightful as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps them sauté properly without releasing too much water.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, though this may slightly change the richness and flavor of the sauce.
Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?
The jerk seasoning provides a natural level of heat, but you can adjust it by adding more or less, or mixing in other spices like cayenne pepper for extra kick or paprika for a milder smoky flavor.
What pasta works best in this dish?
Fettuccine or linguine are ideal because their flat surfaces hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with other long pastas like spaghetti or even penne for a different texture.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Simmer the sauce gently over medium-low heat and avoid boiling once the cream and cheese are added. Stir frequently and add broth gradually to keep the sauce smooth and velvety.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the combination of spicy, creamy, and tender elements in the Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe. It’s a dish that welcomes you like a warm hug and excites your palate with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or indulging in a solo dinner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta combines flavorful jerk-seasoned shrimp with tender fettuccine tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce enhanced by sautéed bell peppers and onions. Ready in just 30 minutes, this vibrant dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying party meal with a Caribbean twist.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp jerk seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced
- ½ yellow onion, sliced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season and Sauté Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with jerk seasoning evenly. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper and yellow onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the creamy Jamaican shrimp pasta warm, garnished if desired, and enjoy this easy and flavorful dish.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra jerk seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If preferred, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish pescatarian friendly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and easy melting.
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain a tender texture.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
