Name: Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Caribbean-Italian Fusion
Ingredients: Penne Pasta: 12 oz penne pasta Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced Seasonings: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp jerk seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, salt and pepper to taste Vegetables: 1 tbsp butter, 1 red bell pepper, sliced, 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced, 1 green bell pepper, sliced, 3 cloves garlic, minced Sauce: 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp allspice, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Garnish: Fresh parsley

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If you’ve ever craved a dish that brings the sunshine of the Caribbean right to your dinner table, Creamy Rasta Pasta is your dream come true. Think ribbons of perfectly cooked penne coated in a silky, spicy, cheesy sauce, studded with rainbow bell peppers and tender jerk chicken—every bite is a party of bold flavors and comforting creaminess. This recipe captures everything you love about fusion cuisine, pulling together warming Caribbean spices and the irresistible richness of Italian pasta. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weeknight or impressing friends at a gathering, Creamy Rasta Pasta will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t ask for anything fancy—but every ingredient plays a crucial role and brings its own magic to the table. The balance of jerk seasoning, velvety cream, and a trio of bell peppers creates a harmony of flavor, texture, and color that’s signature to Creamy Rasta Pasta.

Penne Pasta (12 oz): The perfect shape for clinging to creamy sauce and catching all those delicious spices in every bite.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing chicken and building flavor right from the start.
Chicken Breast or Thighs (1 pound, sliced): Offers juicy, tender protein that soaks up all the jerk spices beautifully.
Jerk Seasoning (1 teaspoon): The real flavor booster behind every great Rasta Pasta; adjust to your spice tolerance!
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): For a mellow, aromatic kick that enhances both chicken and sauce.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle warmth and a lovely color to the chicken.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing out every ingredient’s best flavor.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness to the sautéed veggies and helps everything meld together.
Red Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Sweet and vibrant, this is a must for both color and crunch.
Yellow Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Offers a milder sweetness and a sunny hue.
Green Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Lends a fresh, crisp bite that balances the other peppers.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For fragrant depth and savory undertones throughout the sauce.
Heavy Cream (1½ cups): The creamy base that transforms this dish into pure comfort food.
Chicken Broth (½ cup): Thins out the sauce while adding extra savoriness.
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): For a nutty, salty, cheesy flavor that makes the sauce extra luscious.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts perfectly into the sauce, making it irresistibly gooey.
Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon): Adds herbal freshness that lifts the creamy sauce.
Allspice (½ teaspoon): A little goes a long way, bringing a subtle Caribbean twist.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For extra heat if you like the spice dialed up!
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of green to finish and brighten each plate.

How to Make Creamy Rasta Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water, just like you would for any beloved Italian meal. Cook the penne until it’s al dente—tender but with just a hint of bite. This keeps the pasta from turning mushy once it meets the creamy sauce. Drain it well and set aside while you prep the delicious add-ins.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss those juicy strips of chicken with jerk seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor. The combination of spices creates that perfect jerk flavor which is the very heart of Creamy Rasta Pasta.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Warm up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add in the seasoned chicken strips. Let them sizzle, undisturbed, until they develop a golden crust—about 5 to 7 minutes. Once they’re cooked through and juicy, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it standing by.

Step 4: Sauté the Peppers and Garlic

In the same skillet (no need to clean it—the bits left behind build incredible flavor!), melt the butter. Toss in your trio of bell peppers and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re just starting to get tender but still beautifully vibrant. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute, letting it fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth right into the skillet, giving everything a good stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and start adding in both Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses; these will melt and transform your sauce into a dreamy, smooth blanket of flavor. Stir in thyme, allspice, and red pepper flakes if you want an extra touch of heat.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Now the magic happens! Return the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet, tossing gently so every piece gets coated with that luxurious sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes—just long enough for the flavors to mingle and the sauce to cling to every curve of the pasta. Plate it up, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

How to Serve Creamy Rasta Pasta

Garnishes

A final shower of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that perfectly balances the rich sauce. If you want to go extra bold, a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lime adds something special that brightens the whole plate. Don’t forget a sprinkle of more crushed red pepper if you like it spicy!

Side Dishes

Creamy Rasta Pasta is hearty and satisfying all on its own, but it absolutely shines when paired with sides. Garlic bread is a classic for mopping up every last bit of sauce, while a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can cut through all that creaminess. If you like things extra-fancy, try a side of sweet ripe plantains for a truly Caribbean touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your table into a vibrant feast by serving Creamy Rasta Pasta family style in a big colorful bowl. For gatherings, scoop individual portions into smaller bowls or even serve it in edible Parmesan “cups” for a fun twist. If you want to impress, top each plate with extra slices of jerk chicken and a rainbow of bell peppers for wow-factor visuals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extra Creamy Rasta Pasta? Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making lunchtime the next day just as exciting as dinner was!

Freezing

If you want to save some Creamy Rasta Pasta for a rainy day, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to two months. For best results, let it thaw gently in the fridge before reheating so the sauce stays velvety.

Reheating

To bring leftover pasta back to life, warm it over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, and add a little extra cheese if you want it extra creamy. Just avoid overheating, which can make the sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Rasta Pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just leave out the chicken and add extra bell peppers, mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based protein. You’ll still get all that wonderful warmth and creaminess in every bite.

Is it possible to make it spicier or milder?

Definitely. Up the jerk seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes if you love fiery food. Want it gentle? Go light on the spice, and skip the pepper flakes for a milder experience that’s just as flavorful.

What protein substitutes work well in this dish?

Shrimp, steak strips, or even tofu all taste amazing with the creamy, spicy sauce. Just be sure to season them well with jerk spices, and cook as you would the chicken.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can swap penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just aim for a sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce well—Creamy Rasta Pasta is all about capturing that rich, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

You sure can! Cook the pasta, grill the chicken, and chop the veggies up to a day ahead. When you’re ready to eat, just make the sauce and toss everything together for a fast, fresh dinner.

Final Thoughts

Once you taste Creamy Rasta Pasta, it’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. With every forkful bursting with color, spice, and creamy goodness, it’s like a mini-vacation for your senses. Give it a try the next time you need a comforting meal that still feels adventurous—you’ll be a fan after the very first bite!

Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 3 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean and Italy with this creamy and spicy Rasta Pasta dish. Tender chicken strips, colorful bell peppers, and a rich cheese sauce come together to create a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Penne Pasta:

12 oz penne pasta

Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced

Seasonings:

1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp jerk seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables:

1 tbsp butter, 1 red bell pepper, sliced, 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced, 1 green bell pepper, sliced, 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce:

1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp allspice, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish:

Fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook the Penne: Boil penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Season and Cook Chicken: Season chicken strips with jerk seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until browned.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and garlic in butter until tender.
Make the Sauce: Pour in cream and broth, add cheeses, thyme, allspice, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
Combine Everything: Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, toss in the sauce, and simmer until heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.