Jamaican Black Pepper Shrimp Cheesecake Factory
If you’ve ever visited the Cheesecake Factory in the United States and ordered their famous Jamaican Black Pepper Shrimp, then you already know just how unforgettable this dish is. The first time I tried it while traveling through the U.S., I instantly fell in love with the bold black pepper sauce, the sweet heat, and the tropical flavors paired alongside it. It was rich, spicy, slightly sweet, and completely different from anything I had made at home before.
Looking for more Jamaican recipes? Try my Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Curry
The moment I came back to Canada, I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen — and honestly, this homemade version may be even better. Tender shrimp are coated in a glossy Jamaican-inspired black pepper sauce that’s packed with garlic, soy, brown sugar, and warming spices. Served with black beans and a fresh tropical fruit mix, this dish feels like restaurant-quality comfort food right at home.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make while still feeling incredibly impressive. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or whenever you’re craving those bold island-inspired flavors without leaving your house.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Better-than-restaurant flavor
- Sweet, spicy, smoky, and savory
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect balance of heat and sweetness
- Great for meal prep
- Tastes just like the Cheesecake Factory version
IS JAMAICAN BLACK PEPPER SHRIMP SPICY
Yes, this recipe is spicy and sweet, it somewhat spicy from the scotch bonnet peppers and also sweet from the brown sugar and molasses.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a medium heat level with lots of bold black pepper flavor. You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
What fruit pairs best with this dish?
Mango and pineapple are the perfect tropical pairing, but peaches or grilled pineapple also work beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a medium heat level with lots of bold black pepper flavor. You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
What fruit pairs best with this dish?
Mango and pineapple are the perfect tropical pairing, but peaches or grilled pineapple also work beautifully.
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Jamaican Black Pepper Shrimp Cheesecake Factory
Just like at the cheesecake factory!
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- For the Jamaican Black Pepper Sauce
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- For Serving
- Black beans
- Mango and pineapple fruit mix
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Orange slices or lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss them with black pepper, cayenne, paprika, onion powder, thyme, and allspice until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side until lightly caramelized.
Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes until thick, glossy, and coating the shrimp beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the shrimp alongside black beans and fresh mango-pineapple fruit salad. Garnish with parsley, cilantro, and citrus slices for the perfect tropical finish.
Serve immediately and enjoy every bold, spicy, sweet bite.
Notes
Tips for the Best Jamaican Black Pepper Shrimp
- Use jumbo shrimp for the most authentic restaurant-style presentation.
- Fresh cracked black pepper gives the sauce its signature flavor.
- Want more heat? Add diced scotch bonnet pepper or extra cayenne.
- Serve with rice if you want a heartier meal.
- The sauce thickens quickly, so don’t overcook it.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 367Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 2362mgCarbohydrates: 58gFiber: 4gSugar: 44gProtein: 6g
These calculations are based off Nutritionix