Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe

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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a flavor explosion that blends the heat of Caribbean spices with the comforting creaminess of a cheesy pasta sauce. Picture plump, juicy shrimp tossed in a zesty jerk seasoning, nestled into a bed of al dente pasta, and drenched in a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is secretly simple to make — perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

This bold and vibrant pasta draws its name from the red, yellow, and green bell peppers that mirror the colors of the Rastafarian flag. It’s a colorful celebration of taste and texture, marrying smoky heat with sweet creaminess and savory shrimp in every bite. If you’re looking to impress with something beyond the usual Alfredo or marinara, this Rasta Pasta will definitely turn heads and satisfy cravings.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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How To Make the Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Toss your shrimp in the jerk seasoning until evenly coated. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and quickly sear the shrimp on both sides until pink and just cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then add your thinly sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Boil and Toss the Pasta

While your sauce is simmering, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy pepper sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and shrimp are coated in that creamy, flavorful sauce. Let it warm through for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is best served fresh and hot straight from the skillet. The creamy sauce is at its peak when it’s freshly made, coating the pasta and shrimp with a rich, velvety texture. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

For storing leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s original consistency. The shrimp may be slightly firmer after reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Rasta” mean in Rasta Pasta?

“Rasta” refers to the Rastafarian culture, and the red, yellow, and green bell peppers in the dish mimic the colors of the Rastafarian flag. The name is more about the visual and flavorful inspiration than the ingredients themselves.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken breast or thighs work beautifully. Just season it with jerk seasoning and cook it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

It depends on your jerk seasoning. Some blends are quite hot, while others are milder. You can always start with less and adjust to your heat preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. It’ll still be creamy and flavorful with a slight tropical twist.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Rigatoni, penne, or even fusilli work best. Their ridges help capture all that luscious sauce.

Do I need to marinate the shrimp?

Not necessarily, but letting them sit in the jerk seasoning for 10–15 minutes while you prep other ingredients can deepen the flavor.

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