Save A bold and flavorful fusion of Caribbean and Italian cuisine, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta features jerk-seasoned shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce tossed with pasta. It's a quick and easy dish with the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and fresh ingredients.
I first made this recipe for a family get-together, and everyone loved how the creamy sauce balanced the spicy jerk shrimp. It's now a regular request at our table.
Ingredients
- Penine pasta: 12 oz, cooked al dente
- Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
- Jerk seasoning: 1 tbsp, adjust to taste
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Onion: 1 small, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Yellow bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 1/2 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Green onions: 2, chopped
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
- Lime: Juice of 1
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Prepare the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Season Shrimp:
- Toss shrimp with jerk seasoning.
- Sauté Shrimp:
- In a large skillet over medium-high, melt butter and add olive oil. Cook shrimp about 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies:
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add red and yellow bell peppers and cook 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Make Sauce:
- Add heavy cream and broth. Stir and simmer for a few minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce thickens.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta to sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Finish:
- Return shrimp to the pan. Add green onions and lime juice. Stir to combine.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Save My kids love helping me slice the peppers for this recipe. Sharing this creamy, spicy pasta always brings big smiles to our dinner table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Rasta Pasta with a simple green salad or warm garlic bread for a balanced meal.
Ingredient Swaps
You can use chicken instead of shrimp or swap the bell peppers for whatever is in season.
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Save This creamy Rasta Pasta is a quick dinner packed with flavor and perfect any night you crave something vibrant and satisfying.
Recipe Help
- → How spicy is the jerk shrimp?
The spice level depends on the jerk seasoning used. Adjust to taste for a mild or fiery kick.
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Penne works well, but rigatoni or fusilli are great alternatives, holding the creamy sauce and ingredients.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Add spinach, zucchini, or extra bell peppers for more color, texture, and nutrition.