Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Name: Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta: forms the hearty base that soaks up the creamy sauce; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: provides sweet, succulent seafood flavor; 1 tablespoon olive oil: used to sauté the aromatics; 1 medium onion, finely chopped: adds sweetness and depth; 2 cloves garlic, minced: brings a sharp, savory kick; 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced: offers sweetness and color; 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk: delivers creamy texture and tropical richness; 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning: adds bold spice and smoky flavor; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: brightens the dish and balances heat; Salt and pepper, to taste: enhances overall flavor; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: provides a fresh herbal finish; Lime wedges, for serving: offers an extra citrusy pop at the table

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Looking for a bold, comforting dinner with a Caribbean twist? This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the fiery punch of jerk seasoning, all wrapped around juicy shrimp and tender pasta. It’s quick, flavorful, and feels like a tropical escape in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for guests or a quiet night in, this dish brings big flavor without big effort — all ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta stands out as a weeknight dinner hero. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and loaded with the vibrant taste of the islands. The creamy coconut-based sauce balances perfectly with the spice of the jerk seasoning, making it both comforting and exciting. This dish is naturally dairy-free, and with a simple pasta swap, it can easily be made gluten-free. Whether you’re a spice lover or simply craving something new, this recipe is family-friendly, customizable, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

Shrimp: The star protein, bringing sweetness and a firm, juicy bite
Pasta (Fettuccine or Linguine): Holds the creamy sauce well and adds hearty texture
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and bringing richness to the dish
Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth as the flavor base
Garlic: Delivers sharpness and intensity
Bell Pepper (Red or Yellow): Brings color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch
Coconut Milk: The creamy, dairy-free base that infuses tropical richness
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning: The essential flavor kick — spicy, smoky, and bold
Fresh Lime Juice: Adds brightness and balances the spice with acidity
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance
Fresh Cilantro: Brings herbal freshness to finish the dish
Lime Wedges: For serving and extra zing

Optional Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet for sautéing
Colander for draining pasta

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

If you’re out of shrimp or want to change things up, try these substitutes for your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta:

Chicken Breast: Thinly sliced, it soaks up the jerk flavors and remains tender
Firm White Fish: Cod or tilapia work beautifully for a lighter seafood alternative
Tofu or Tempeh: Great for a plant-based twist — marinate them first for extra flavor
Zucchini Noodles: Swap out pasta for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative
Cream Cheese or Mascarpone: Stir into the sauce for added richness if coconut milk isn’t enough

How to Make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Follow these easy steps to create a creamy, spicy, and unforgettable dish:

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and bell pepper; cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp
Increase heat to medium-high. Add shrimp and season with jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque — avoid overcooking.
Build the Sauce
Add coconut milk and lime juice. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, letting the flavors meld. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Combine and Finish
Toss drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce and shrimp. Mix gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve and Garnish
Plate in wide bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Pro Cooking Tips for Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Use Fresh Shrimp: If using frozen, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking for best texture.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook just to al dente — it will absorb more flavor in the sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is gold for adjusting sauce consistency.
Adjust Heat Gradually: Start with less jerk seasoning and build to your spice level.
Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: It gives the dish its creamy, luxurious mouthfeel.
Garnish Well: A handful of cilantro and a squeeze of lime make a big difference.

Serving Ideas & Flavor Boosters

Pair Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with complementary flavors or create fun variations:

Side Dish Ideas

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce
Tropical Salad: Mango, avocado, and citrus dressing offer contrast
Coconut Rice: Doubles the tropical vibe and balances the heat
Coleslaw: Crunchy, tangy, and a cool counter to the spice

Wine Pairings

Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and citrusy, cuts through the creaminess
Pinot Grigio: Light-bodied with subtle fruit notes — a lovely match

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add Scotch bonnet pepper or hot sauce
Vegetarian: Use tofu or chickpeas, and bulk up with extra veggies
Low-Carb: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or serve over cauliflower rice
Ultra Creamy: Stir in mascarpone or a spoonful of cream cheese with the coconut milk

Embracing Caribbean Flavor at Home

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a celebration of Caribbean spice and comfort. The combination of rich coconut milk and bold jerk seasoning delivers a warm, tropical experience with every bite. This dish is a gateway into island-inspired cuisine — whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a Caribbean-themed dinner.

Add reggae music and a rum cocktail for a full-on island escape
Use seasonal vegetables to keep it fresh and colorful year-round
Host a “Jamaican Pasta Night” with friends — serve multiple toppings and let guests build their plates

Conclusion

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is more than just a quick weeknight dinner — it’s a bold, flavor-packed journey that brings the essence of Caribbean cooking into your kitchen. With its creamy coconut sauce, vibrant jerk spices, and perfectly cooked shrimp, this dish checks all the boxes for taste, ease, and visual appeal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, spice up your meal routine, or enjoy a cozy dinner with tropical flair, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

It’s easily customizable to suit dietary needs, scalable for larger gatherings, and reheats well — making it just as practical as it is delicious. The balance of heat, creaminess, and citrusy brightness is what makes Jamaican Shrimp Pasta a true standout. Make it your own, serve it with flair, and get ready for rave reviews around the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. However, to avoid overcooking, add them only during the final minute when combining the sauce and pasta. Just warm them through in the creamy sauce — this preserves their texture and prevents them from becoming rubbery.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you’re not a fan of coconut milk or don’t have it on hand, you can use heavy cream, oat cream, or even a blend of cream cheese and milk. Keep in mind, though, that the unique flavor of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta comes largely from the coconut milk, so the taste will vary.

Is Jamaican Shrimp Pasta spicy?

Jerk seasoning brings medium to high heat, but you can easily control the spice level. Start with less and taste as you go. For a milder version, use a low-heat jerk blend or make your own with paprika, thyme, garlic powder, and just a pinch of cayenne.

More Relevant Recipes

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe: This creamy garlic shrimp dish delivers rich, garlicky flavor with a smooth sauce that’s perfect over pasta or rice. It shares the creamy texture and seafood base of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta but with a milder, comfort-food twist.
Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe: This bold and spicy recipe blends two flavorful proteins — salmon and shrimp — in a smoky Cajun seasoning. It complements the heat and depth of jerk seasoning found in Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, making it a flavorful Southern-style alternative.
White Chicken Lasagna Soup: A creamy, pasta-forward soup loaded with chicken and cheesy richness. While different in form, it echoes the comforting, rich flavors of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta and is perfect for a cozy meal with similar indulgent appeal.

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta – Best Creamy Caribbean Dinner

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