It’s a busy weeknight, and you’re craving something quick yet indulgent for dinner. You peek in the fridge and spot fresh shrimp, pasta, and cream — the perfect ingredients for a flavorful, creamy dish. That’s when this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta comes to life. With tender shrimp, a rich, garlicky cream sauce, and a hint of Caribbean spice, every bite is a delightful mix of comfort and excitement. Soon, your kitchen smells irresistible, and everyone gathers around for a meal that feels both special and effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: A smooth, garlicky cream sauce that pairs beautifully with tender shrimp.
- Caribbean-Inspired Twist: A touch of spice from Scotch bonnet or chili gives it an exciting, authentic flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike, ideal for gatherings or cozy dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: Works with fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti and can be customized with vegetables or extra herbs.
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Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight
A quick, creamy, and flavorful Jamaican-inspired pasta with tender shrimp, garlicky sauce, and a hint of Caribbean spice. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika optional adds mild color
- 1/4 tsp salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes optional for spice
- For the Creamy Pasta Sauce
- Amount Unit Ingredient Notes
- 2 tbsp butter unsalted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter option
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds richness
- 1/4 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional enhances creaminess
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- 1 tsp lime juice optional adds brightness
- For the Pasta
- Amount Unit Ingredient Notes
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine cooked al dente according to package
Instructions
- Cook the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the shrimp.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, then gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine pasta and sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the shrimp.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the creamy pasta.
- Finish and serve.
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a drizzle of lime juice if desired. Serve immediately for a rich, flavorful Caribbean-inspired dinner.
Notes
Recipe Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can cook the pasta and shrimp separately in advance, then combine with the sauce just before serving.
- Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes or Scotch bonnet peppers according to your preference for mild or spicy heat.
- Creamy Variation: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness while keeping the sauce creamy.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread to make it a complete Caribbean-inspired meal.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to preserve creaminess.