Name: Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 2 lbs jumbo shrimp, deveined; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 (16 oz) package rigatoni pasta (or any short-cut pasta); 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups bell peppers, chopped (assorted colors); 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1–2 tbsp jerk seasoning (adjust to taste); 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup chicken or seafood stock (low-sodium); 2 tbsp white cooking wine; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mild cheddar (optional); Chopped scallions

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If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, creamy, and bursting with flavor, then you have to try this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta. Picture this: tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce with hints of coconut, garlic, and jerk seasoning, all coming together in one irresistible dish. It’s a little bit spicy, a little bit sweet, and all kinds of comforting. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

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Why You’ll Love Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating a meal that feels like an island getaway, no matter where you are. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or just treating yourself to something delicious, this dish is sure to impress. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for date night, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent but flavorful. It’s a great way to spice up your regular pasta routine.

Budget-Friendly: While it might sound fancy, this dish uses ingredients that are easy to find and won’t break the bank. You can whip up this Caribbean-inspired dish without breaking your budget.

Quick and Easy: Don’t let the creamy sauce fool you—it’s a breeze to make! In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready to serve.

Customizable: You can make this dish as mild or spicy as you like by adjusting the amount of jerk seasoning. Want it extra creamy? Add more coconut milk or a splash of heavy cream!

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s hard to resist the combination of rich pasta, juicy shrimp, and that incredible jerk seasoning. This dish will definitely wow your guests or family members.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s packed with flavor but comes together with a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Shrimp: The stars of the show! Tender shrimp soak up all the delicious flavors, providing the perfect bite in each forkful.

Pasta: A hearty pasta like fettuccine or penne works best to hold up to that creamy sauce, giving you the perfect base for all those amazing flavors.

Jerk Seasoning: This brings the heat and all those tropical spices that make this dish pop! It adds that authentic Jamaican flair.

Coconut Milk: The key to the creamy texture of this dish. It adds richness and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the jerk seasoning.

Heavy Cream: For an extra creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta and shrimp in a silky, smooth texture.

Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only add a pop of color but also a light crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Garlic and Onion: These are essential for building a solid base of flavor. They bring out all the richness in the dish and complement the shrimp beautifully.

Scallions (Green Onions): For a fresh, slightly sharp note that balances out the richness of the sauce.

Butter: To sauté the shrimp and veggies, giving them a nice golden touch.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps for making this creamy, flavorful dish:

Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water for extra flavor. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for the sauce.

Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season them with a little jerk seasoning. Sauté until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until they’re softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of crunch.

Make the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk and heavy cream. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits left in the skillet from cooking the shrimp and veggies. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Combine: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Finishing Touches: Stir in the scallions and additional jerk seasoning if you like it spicier. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the creamy, vibrant pasta in bowls or on plates. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean in every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

This creamy pasta dish pairs beautifully with a few sides to complete your meal:

Fresh Salad: A light, tangy green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
Grilled Veggies: Roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or corn on the cob will add a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the dish.
Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side to scoop up any remaining creamy sauce.
Plantains: For an extra touch of Caribbean flair, serve with sweet fried plantains for a sweet and savory contrast.
As a Standalone: Honestly, this pasta is hearty enough to enjoy all on its own. Just top with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for a little garnish!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta even better:

Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and measure out your seasonings ahead of time to save time when you start cooking.
Spice It Up: Add more jerk seasoning or fresh chopped chili peppers if you like it spicy.
Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and serve it with gluten-free pasta.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of coconut milk to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking them. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A2: Absolutely! Swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or even roasted cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a little extra coconut milk for creaminess.

Q4: Can I make the sauce spicier?
A4: Yes! Add extra jerk seasoning, chili flakes, or fresh hot peppers to ramp up the spice level.

Q5: How do I know when the shrimp is done?
A5: The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked through. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery.

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
A6: While pasta and creamy sauces don’t freeze as well, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately for up to a month. Reheat on the stovetop and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q7: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A7: Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti works well. Just choose your favorite pasta.

Q8: Can I add cheese to the sauce?
A8: Yes, a little grated Parmesan or cheddar can add an extra layer of richness to the sauce.

Q9: How do I make this dish less creamy?
A9: Use less coconut milk and heavy cream, or substitute some of the cream with vegetable broth for a lighter version.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! Just make sure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate the increased ingredients or divide it into two pans.

Conclusion

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a fantastic fusion of tropical flavors and comforting pasta. With its rich, creamy sauce and the perfect balance of spices, this dish brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

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Why You’ll Love Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Ingredients

Instructions

How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Additional Tips

FAQ Section

Conclusion

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Description

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

For the Pasta:

For Garnish:

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition