If you crave a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that feels a little like a tropical vacation on your dinner plate, look no further than Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta. This colorful dish features plump shrimp, sweet bell peppers, silky coconut milk, and a touch of Caribbean spice, all tossed together with pasta in the creamiest sauce. With just the right balance of smooth richness and zesty heat, every forkful is a party. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal that wows or want to treat friends to something unforgettable, Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is always a good idea. Get ready to fall in love—one twirl at a time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beautiful things about this recipe is how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients come together to create something utterly unique. Each element plays an essential role, bringing color, texture, or that irresistible Caribbean kick that makes Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta shine.
- Shrimp (1 lb, large, peeled and deveined): The star of the show! Choose fresh or well-thawed shrimp for best flavor and that juicy, tender bite.
- Pasta (8 oz): Penne, fettuccine, or your favorite variety will soak up every drop of the creamy sauce; gluten-free works too.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity undertone and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon): Enriches both the sauce and shrimp for that luxurious, velvety feel.
- Onion (1, chopped): Gives a hint of sweetness and a depth of flavor to the base.
- Bell Pepper (1, red or yellow, chopped): Brings bold color and a lovely crunch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds signature aromatic warmth.
- Ground Allspice (1 teaspoon): Delivers authentic Jamaican flair with its deep, slightly sweet spice.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Offers subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts herbaceous notes; a staple of Caribbean flavors.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Dial up or down for your perfect level of heat.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors—season generously!
- Coconut Milk (1 cup): Creates luscious creaminess with a hint of island sweetness.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Turns the sauce truly decadent and smooth.
- Chicken Broth (1/4 cup): Adds depth and gently loosens the sauce; veggie broth works fine too.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Melts in for a wonderful savory finish.
- Lime Juice (1 tablespoon, fresh): Brightens the whole dish and cuts through the richness.
- Fresh Cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): Lends a pop of freshness and color at serving time.
How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your chosen pasta according to the package directions until it’s deliciously al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water right before you drain—it’s a secret ingredient for later that will help make your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta perfectly glossy and luscious.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter starts to bubble, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Stir and let these soften for about 5 minutes—they should look lively and fragrant, but not browned. This sets a sweet, savory base for all the layers of flavor to come.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices
Time to unleash those Caribbean aromas! Add the minced garlic, ground allspice, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper if you like it spicy, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a stir and let those spices toast for a minute or two—this unlocks their flavor, making your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta irresistible.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the shrimp straight into the skillet. Spread them out so they get good contact with the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping once, until the shrimp curl up and turn pink and opaque. Then, scoop them out with a slotted spoon and set aside. Keeping them separate for now means they won’t overcook—no rubbery shrimp here!
Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce
Without wiping the skillet (all those delicious flavors stay in!), pour in the coconut milk, heavy cream, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce bubble gently for about 5-7 minutes, so it thickens just enough to coat the back of your spoon.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Lime
Once the sauce looks velvety, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lime juice. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is silky smooth. The lime brightens the whole pot, balancing the creamy elements and spice.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, tip your cooked pasta right into the skillet and toss to coat every piece in that scrumptious sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, trickle in a splash (or more) of the reserved pasta water until it’s just how you like it. Don’t rush—this is where all the flavors hug the pasta perfectly.
Step 8: Finish with Shrimp
Finally, gently fold those gorgeous shrimp back into the skillet, letting them nestle among the pasta and creamy sauce. Mix everything together for a minute or two over low heat, just until everything is piping hot and mingling happily.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Take your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta straight to the table, piping hot, and scatter chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Grab your fork—dinner is ready to transport you somewhere truly special!
How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Garnishes
Go big on fresh cilantro for a herby flourish, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, add a few lime wedges for squeezing over individual plates. A dusting of extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of thinly sliced scallions also looks gorgeous and adds another layer of flavor to your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta.
Side Dishes
This vibrant dish is quite a showstopper on its own, but it absolutely shines with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to mop up every last bit of sauce. For a complete Caribbean-inspired spread, try a serving of sweet fried plantains or classic Jamaican rice and peas alongside your pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and festive dinner party, serve your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta in colorful bowls and top each with a wedge of lime and a tiny skewer of grilled shrimp. Or, for family-style dining, present it in a big, shallow serving dish, letting those colors of the bell pepper and cilantro really pop atop the creamy sauce. Don’t be afraid to let your culinary creativity shine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, stash them in an airtight container and pop into the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta almost better the next day. It’ll keep well for up to 2 days, but try to enjoy it sooner for the best possible texture.
Freezing
While Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is at its prime when enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. For the happiest results, eat within 1 month. Just note that cream-based sauces can sometimes turn a little grainy after freezing, but a gentle reheat helps bring it back together.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer individual portions to a skillet or saucepan and warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, broth, or coconut milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir gently and heat just until everything is steaming and creamy—avoid overcooking, especially with shrimp, so they stay tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is just as delicious with grilled chicken strips, sautéed scallops, or even cubes of firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times as needed to keep the protein tender and juicy.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a lovely, gentle heat from the cayenne pepper and allspice, but the heat is easily adjustable. If you prefer less spice, simply omit or reduce the cayenne, and you’ll still have all the vibrant flavor!
Do I have to use coconut milk?
Coconut milk gives the sauce its signature creamy, tropical flavor. However, if you aren’t a fan or have allergies, you can swap in more heavy cream or a non-dairy substitute like cashew cream—just know the flavor will change a bit.
What’s the best pasta for Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta?
Penne and fettuccine are classic, but any pasta that holds sauce well will be lovely. You can also use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs, and even whole wheat for a fiber boost.
Can I add extra veggies to the dish?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, peas, or mini broccoli florets are wonderful stirred in with the pasta, adding extra color and nutrition. Feel free to tailor the veggies to what you love or have on hand.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your dinner routine and treat yourself to a dish that’s both creamy and bursting with Caribbean flair, you truly have to try Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta. It’s easy, impressive, and guaranteed to put smiles on the faces around your table. Give it a go—and let your kitchen become a gateway to flavors you’ll adore!
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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean with this creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta recipe. A delicious fusion of shrimp, coconut, and spices, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds with its rich and savory flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: According to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter. Add onion, bell pepper, and cook until softened.
- Add seasonings: Garlic, allspice, paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant.
- Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, combine coconut milk, cream, and broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in Parmesan and lime juice until smooth.
- Combine: Add pasta to the skillet, toss in the sauce. Add shrimp back in.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels to taste.
- Enhance with spinach or peas.
- Pair with garlic bread or salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican, Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
