Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a bold and colorful fusion of Caribbean spice and Italian comfort. This flavorful dish features jerk-seasoned shrimp tossed with tender pasta, sautéed bell peppers, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. With its vibrant taste and stunning presentation, it’s the perfect dish to serve for dinner, gatherings, or when you’re craving something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Caribbean flavors from jerk seasoning balanced by a creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Colorful and festive: Bell peppers add beautiful color and crunch.
• Customizable: Use chicken, tofu, or veggies in place of shrimp.
• Comfort food with a kick: A satisfying meal with heat and heart.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (plus more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the shrimp: Toss shrimp with jerk seasoning until fully coated.
3. Sear the shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté bell peppers for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
5. Make the sauce: Lower heat to medium. Pour in heavy cream and stir. Once warmed through, add Parmesan and mozzarella. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Combine: Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Garnish with green onions or parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast, tofu, or seared scallops.
• Extra heat: Add Scotch bonnet pepper or hot sauce for more spice.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based cream, vegan cheese, and meat alternatives.
• Pasta choices: Use rigatoni, rotini, or even linguine depending on your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What is Rasta Pasta?

Rasta Pasta is a Caribbean-inspired dish combining creamy pasta with jerk seasoning and colorful vegetables—often named for the red, green, and yellow colors associated with Rastafarian culture.

Can I use store-bought jerk seasoning?

Yes, store-bought jerk seasoning works great. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s medium-spicy, depending on the jerk seasoning used. Add less for a milder flavor or more for extra heat.

What shrimp size works best?

Large shrimp (16–20 count) are ideal for a meaty texture and quick cooking.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end to warm through—avoid overcooking or they’ll get rubbery.

What cheese works best?

Parmesan adds saltiness and depth, while mozzarella or cheddar adds creaminess and body.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and substitute vegan cheese.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Cook everything except the shrimp, which you can sear fresh for the best texture.

Is this a traditional Jamaican dish?

No, it’s a fusion dish that combines Caribbean flavors with Italian pasta techniques.

What sides go with Rasta Pasta?

A simple green salad, fried plantains, or garlic bread are perfect pairings.

Conclusion

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a flavorful, colorful, and satisfying meal that brings together the heat of jerk seasoning and the comfort of a creamy pasta dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want a taste of the Caribbean in a bowl. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this dish is a must-try fusion favorite.

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