Creamy Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Featured in Delicious Main Dish Recipes for Every Occasion.

This dish transforms creamy pasta with vibrant Jamaican flavor. Bell peppers in bold colors reflect the Rasta vibe, while jerk-spiced shrimp delivers heat. The creamy sauce with Parmesan tones the spice down, making it balanced and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
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Updated on Sat, 26 Apr 2025 13:11:37 GMT
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Bright and Bold Shrimp Rasta Pasta | chefmelt.com

This bold flavor fusion combines spicy Caribbean jerk flavors with classic Italian pasta, making a smooth, fiery delight. Each bite gives you juicy shrimp, crunchy peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta wrapped in a velvety sauce.

I found out that keeping some of the pasta cooking water helps you get the perfect sauce thickness, especially when you warm it up later.

Key Ingredients and Smart Selection Advice

  • Shrimp - Go for big ones (16/20 size) to make sure they cook evenly
  • Jerk Seasoning - Whip up your own or grab a good store-bought mix
  • Bell Peppers - Look for solid, vivid colors for the best look
  • Heavy Cream - Use the real full-fat stuff for a sauce that won't separate

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Nailing the Pasta
Boil pasta until almost done - it'll finish cooking in the sauce. Save 1 cup of that starchy water before you drain.
2. Shrimp Know-how
Wipe shrimp dry before adding spices. Cook them with plenty of space so they brown properly.
3. Creating the Sauce
Use the same pan where you cooked the shrimp to catch all those tasty bits. Pour cream in slowly while you stir to keep it smooth.
4. Getting Veggies Right
Cook those peppers just enough - you want them tender but still with some snap to mix up the textures.
5. Putting It All Together
Mix pasta with sauce first, then add the shrimp so everything gets coated well. Splash in some pasta water if it needs thinning.
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Homemade Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta | chefmelt.com

Finding the sweet spot between spicy jerk seasoning and rich cream sauce is what makes awesome Rasta Pasta.

This dish shows how beautifully Caribbean and Italian food traditions can come together, blending bold spices with comfort food classics.

Tasty Adjustments for Every Season

When spring comes, toss in some fresh herbs and asparagus tips. Summer's great for adding cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. In fall, try mixing in some butternut squash or pumpkin cream. Winter works well with additions like sundried tomatoes or roasted garlic. No matter the season, you'll keep that signature creamy-spicy balance.

Great Drinks and Side Dishes to Serve

Try it with a fruity Viognier or cool Riesling to balance the spicy-creamy flavors. Don't drink? Coconut water or mango juice works great too. Keep sides simple - maybe a mango slaw, some grilled pineapple, or a citrus salad.

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Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta | chefmelt.com

Prep-Ahead Options

Do some work early: cut peppers, clean shrimp, gather your spices. You can make the sauce base (without adding cream) and put it in the fridge. For the best results though, cook your pasta fresh and mix in the cream right before you serve.

Tips for Feeding a Crowd

Works great for buffets since the sauce stays creamy longer than regular Alfredo. Set up a topping station with extra jerk spice, scotch bonnet sauce, coconut flakes, and fresh herbs. A low-heat chafing dish will keep everything warm.

Controlling the Spice Level

You can easily adjust how hot this dish is. Start with just half the jerk seasoning and add more if you want. Serve cooling stuff like coconut cream or mango chutney on the side for folks who can't handle the heat.

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Easy Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe | chefmelt.com

Closing Thoughts

This Rasta Pasta shows off the amazing mix of Caribbean and Italian food traditions. Combining jerk-spiced shrimp with creamy pasta sauce creates something that's both familiar and exciting. It really shows how mixing cooking styles from different places can make something totally mouthwatering.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Is this dish really spicy?
It depends on your jerk seasoning. Start mild and adjust to your taste.
→ What pasta shapes can I use?
Go for medium pasta options like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle—they all work well.
→ What's a good swap for heavy cream?
Try half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but skip milk—it can curdle from the spices.
→ Can I prep this in advance?
It's best fresh, but you can reheat slowly. Add a splash of cream to bring the sauce back to life.
→ Where do I find jerk seasoning?
Check your local store or make your own with allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers.

Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Creamy pasta with jerk-seasoned shrimp and peppers. A mix of island spice and hearty comfort food in one bite!

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes

Category: Main Dish Recipes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-Caribbean Blend

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Base

01 1 lb shrimp, cleaned and ready to cook
02 12 oz of penne
03 2 tbsp olive oil
04 2 tbsp jerk seasoning, split up

→ Vegetables

05 3 minced garlic cloves
06 A red bell pepper, cut into slices
07 A green bell pepper, cut into strips
08 A yellow bell pepper, cut into pieces
09 2 sliced green onions

→ Sauce

10 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
11 Salt and ground black pepper as needed
12 A cup of heavy whipping cream
13 Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for the top
14 1/2 cup chicken or veggie stock

Instructions

Step 01

Boil the penne in salty water following the package details. Drain it once done and keep it aside.

Step 02

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of jerk seasoning over the shrimp. Cook them in hot oil for 2–3 minutes on each side till they turn a nice pink. Take them out of the pan.

Step 03

Use the same pan to soften the bell peppers. Stir in the garlic and let it cook an extra minute.

Step 04

Pour in the broth to scrape up the good bits. Add cream, the rest of the jerk seasoning, and Parmesan, stirring to keep it silky.

Step 05

Mix the pasta into the sauce, toss in the shrimp, and sprinkle the green onions and fresh herbs on top.

Notes

  1. Change jerk seasoning amount to your liking
  2. Pick whatever bell pepper colors you enjoy
  3. Swap veggie broth for chicken broth if needed

Tools You'll Need

  • Deep pot for the pasta
  • Big frying pan
  • Strainer
  • Bowl for mixing

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Has gluten
  • Contains shellfish
  • Includes dairy