I couldn’t wait to share this recipe with you! I made this creamy Jamaican shrimp Rasta pasta recipe last weekend, and it was pure magic in a bowl. The spicy jerk seasoning blends so well with the cheesy sauce, while the shrimp add that perfect seafood touch.
The bold flavors transported me straight to the Caribbean and left everyone at the table asking for seconds. If you love bringing new dinner ideas to your menu, you can also enjoy similar flavorful classics like this easy balsamic glazed steak tips and mushrooms recipe. Let’s jump into how to make this vibrant dish!
Ingredients you Will Need
The secret to any amazing dish lies in high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe, with some tips to make it even better:
- Shrimp (2 lbs.)
Use jumbo or colossal wild-caught shrimp. Fresh is better, but frozen works if thawed properly. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they won’t absorb flavors well. - Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
Extra virgin olive oil gives a nice base flavor when sautéing the shrimp and vegetables. - Butter (1 tablespoon)
Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness. - Sea salt (1 teaspoon)
Enhances the natural flavors. Adjust for taste. - Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
Adds a mild heat to balance the other spices. - Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
Brings a smoky warmth to the shrimp. - Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
Makes the shrimp extra aromatic and flavorful. - Dried parsley (1 teaspoon)
Adds a touch of earthiness. - Rigatoni pasta (1 package, 16 oz.)
This pasta holds the creamy sauce perfectly. Feel free to substitute with penne or spirals if needed. - Bell peppers (2 cups, chopped)
A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers creates the traditional Rasta colors; they’re also sweet and vibrant. - Fresh thyme sprigs (2)
Gives the sauce depth with its woodsy aroma. - All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
Used to thicken the sauce for a creamy consistency. - Jerk seasoning (1-2 tablespoons)
Homemade seasoning works best, but store-bought is fine. - Heavy cream (2 cups)
The base of the creamy sauce. Full-fat coconut milk is a great dairy-free substitute. - Chicken or seafood stock (1 cup)
Adds richness to the sauce. Use low-sodium options to control salt. - White cooking wine (2 tablespoons)
Enhances the sauce’s flavor. Substitute with extra stock if preferred. - Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated)
Always grate your own cheese for the best melt and taste. - Mild cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Adds a slightly sharp flavor to the sauce.
Note: This recipe serves 4, so adjust ingredient quantities based on your needs.
Variations
This recipe is versatile! Here are some great variations you can try:
- Dairy-Free
Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free cheese to make the dish creamy without the dairy. - Gluten-Free
Simply swap the pasta with a gluten-free version and use GF-friendly flour. - Vegan
Replace shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable stock. - Extra Spice
Add scotch bonnet peppers if you love intense heat. - Protein Swaps
Try blackened chicken or even salmon if shrimp isn’t your thing.
For more dinner inspiration, check out additional ideas in easy dinner recipes. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of this Jamaican delight!
Cooking Time
This Jamaican shrimp Rasta pasta is quick and hassle-free to prepare. Here’s the time breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dish in no time:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Skillet: To sauté the shrimp and veggies.
- Whisk: Essential for making a lump-free sauce.
- Knife and cutting board: For prepping the bell peppers.
- Grater: To shred cheese fresh, which melts better in the sauce!
How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Here’s the step-by-step preparation process to get your dish perfectly creamy, spicy, and satisfying:
Prepare the Shrimp
I like to start by seasoning the shrimp. Toss them in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, then sauté the shrimp for 3-4 minutes per side until pink and perfectly cooked. Set them aside.
Cook the Pasta
Boil the rigatoni pasta in salted water until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Make sure not to overcook; the pasta will absorb sauce later, keeping it tender and flavorful.
Sauté the Veggies and Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, sauté the garlic and chopped bell peppers until they soften. Add flour and jerk seasoning, mixing well. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stock, and white cooking wine. Stir until the sauce thickens. Add fresh thyme, Parmesan, and mild cheddar cheese, letting everything melt into a creamy consistency.
Combine and Serve
Toss the pasta and shrimp into the sauce, coating everything evenly. Simmer for a minute or two to blend the flavors. Remove the thyme sprigs before serving.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
These are some game-changing tips based on my experience:
- Use fresh shrimp: It makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Control the spice: Start with less jerk seasoning, then taste and adjust.
- Don’t skimp on cheese: Freshly grated cheese makes the sauce richer and smoother.
- Taste as you go: Make adjustments to the salt and spice level while cooking.
- Keep it colorful: Bright bell peppers make the dish visually stunning and pack extra nutrients.
How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Presentation is everything! Serve this pasta in a shallow bowl, topped with freshly chopped scallions for color and a pop of flavor. Pair it with easy cheesy mushrooms or garlic bread for a side. A crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette also balances the richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 750
- Protein: 48 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fat: 42 grams
How to Store the Dish
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to a month, but thaw it overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s what makes this dish a superstar:
- Simple and quick: Done in just 30 minutes!
- Versatile: Get creative with add-ins and substitutions.
- Crowd-pleaser: Spicy, creamy, and full of bold flavors.
- Leftovers taste better: The flavors deepen overnight.
- Perfect for all seasons: Great for a cozy winter evening or summer gathering.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Is jerk seasoning mandatory?
It’s the star of the dish! For authentic flavors, it’s a must.
What other pasta shapes work well?
Penne, shells, or spirals are ideal for holding the sauce.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, but keep the shrimp and sauce separate from the pasta until reheating to avoid sogginess.