Jerk Shrimp Fettuccine
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the jerk seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.
Tips for Success
- Jerk Seasoning: Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Shrimp Substitute: Use chicken or tofu if shrimp isn’t available.
- Creamy Texture: For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter to the cream mixture.
Variations
- Veggie Addition: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Herbal Twist: Mix in fresh thyme or oregano for added depth.
Why You’ll Love Jerk Shrimp Fettuccine
- Bold and Creamy: Spicy jerk shrimp paired with a rich, velvety sauce.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a gourmet meal at home.
- Versatile: Customizable with different proteins or vegetables.
Enjoy! 🌶️🍤
