If you’re on the lookout for a dinner that brings vibrant Caribbean flavors to your table in the most indulgent way possible, then this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a celebration of bold jerk-spiced shrimp swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce with a colorful mix of bell peppers and perfectly cooked penne. Each bite delivers the spicy warmth and rich creaminess that make this dish unforgettable, making it an absolute favorite for weeknight meals or when you want to impress friends with something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. Don’t be intimidated by the list because these are simple, easily accessible items that pack powerful flavor.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, adding a tender, succulent seafood element with a bit of natural sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (divided): The magic spice mix that infuses the dish with authentic Jamaican island heat and earthy flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a smooth sear that locks in the shrimp’s juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the sautéed veggies and adds a silky touch to the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brightly colored and sweet, it balances the heat perfectly.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Brings cheerful sunny notes and a slight crunch.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Earthy undertones and fresh crunch for contrast.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the sauce a savory kick that ties everything together.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety base that makes this pasta irresistibly creamy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente and drained: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the sauce and bring structure.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.
- Chopped parsley or scallions for garnish (optional): Fresh green pops that brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp
Begin by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp with half of the jerk seasoning—this first layer of spice ensures the shrimp soak up that classic Jamaican flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook them until they turn pink and just firm, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This quick sear locks in their moisture and boosts their natural sweetness. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Toss in the sliced yellow onion and the trio of bell peppers. Let them cook gently until they soften and release their fragrant aroma—around 5 minutes. This step is key for developing the sweetness and tender texture that complement the shrimp so well.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Add the minced garlic and the remaining jerk seasoning to the veggie mixture, stirring for about a minute until aromatic but not burnt. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, letting the sauce come to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the cream. The sauce will thicken slightly, becoming rich and luxurious.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
Now, add the cooked penne pasta and the seared shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every piece is coated in that creamy, spice-packed sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. This step is where all the flavors marry into one unforgettable dish.
How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or scallions adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your plate. Not only do they brighten the dish visually, but they also introduce a slight freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as the centerpiece, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with citrus vinaigrette or some warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this pasta in hollowed-out bell peppers or a large, shallow serving bowl that showcases all the colorful ingredients. You can also add a wedge of lime on the side to give diners the option to add a zesty finish that cuts through the richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The shrimp can get a bit firmer after chilling, but the flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
Freezing
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the shrimp and sauce might change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can cause the shrimp to become rubbery and the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to get that perfect sear and avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have jerk seasoning on hand?
You can mix your own blend of paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, allspice, garlic powder, and a hint of cinnamon to mimic the jerk flavor. However, store-bought jerk seasoning adds authentic depth quickly and easily.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half combined with a bit of butter or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, though the sauce may be slightly less thick and rich.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the shrimp for plant-based alternatives like sautéed mushrooms or spiced tofu to maintain texture and soak up all those incredible flavors.
How spicy is the dish?
The heat level depends on the jerk seasoning you use. It can be mild to medium-spicy. Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning to suit your taste, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe combines vibrant Caribbean flavors with indulgent creaminess. It’s lively, comforting, and utterly delicious—a dish that’s sure to brighten your weeknights and impress any crowd. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to meal. Trust me, this pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again!
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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Description
This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta combines succulent shrimp seasoned with spicy jerk seasoning with vibrant bell peppers and a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce, all tossed with al dente penne pasta. It’s a flavorful Caribbean-inspired main course perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or impressing guests with bold island flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (divided)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of jerk seasoning until evenly coated and set aside to marinate briefly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and the remaining 1 tablespoon of jerk seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the aromas.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked penne pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss well to ensure everything is fully coated with the creamy jerk sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions if desired. Serve the dish hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of milk or reserved pasta water before serving.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
- Ensure shrimp is cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
