If you love creamy pasta and bold, spicy flavors, you’re in for a treat. Rasta Pasta is a vibrant and delicious fusion dish that combines Caribbean spices, colorful bell peppers, and creamy sauce—all tossed with your favorite pasta and often topped with juicy jerk chicken or shrimp. This recipe is a celebration of color, taste, and comfort.
It’s not just a meal—it’s a vibe. Whether you’re cooking for your family, spicing up your dinner routine, or impressing guests, this dish checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into what makes Rasta Pasta so special and how to make it at home with simple ingredients and easy steps.
What is Rasta Pasta Recipe?
Rasta Pasta is a creamy Caribbean-style pasta dish that blends jerk seasoning with sautéed bell peppers and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s believed to have originated in Jamaica or was inspired by Jamaican flavors and the Rastafarian culture—hence the name. The signature look comes from the red, green, and yellow peppers, reflecting the colors of the Rastafarian flag. Though Rastafarians typically follow a plant-based diet, many versions of Rasta Pasta include jerk chicken or shrimp, adding a punch of protein and flavor.
Quick Facts
| Course | Main Dish |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Caribbean, Fusion |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4 |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Calories | 650 per serving |
Equipment Needed
To prepare Rasta Pasta smoothly, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Large Skillet: For sautéing vegetables and proteins.
- Saucepan: To boil pasta.
- Colander: For draining pasta.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir without damaging cookware.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For chopping veggies and meats.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate seasoning and ingredients.
- Tongs: Helpful for tossing pasta in the sauce.
- Grater: If you’re using fresh Parmesan or cheese.
Each of these items will help speed up your cooking and give you a better end result.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make a creamy, flavorful Rasta Pasta:
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce & Veggies
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 ½ teaspoons jerk seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth (or veggie broth)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (or mozzarella)
For Protein (Optional)
- 2 chicken breasts or 1 lb shrimp
- 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step-by-step Cooking Direction
- Boil Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Protein (Optional): Season chicken or shrimp with jerk seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook until done. Set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, heat more oil if needed. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in jerk seasoning and paprika. Let the spices toast for a minute.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in cream and broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and protein to the sauce. Toss well to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with more cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Essential Note
Be mindful of the jerk seasoning—some store-bought blends are spicier than others. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. If you’re using a wet jerk marinade, reduce the amount of broth slightly to avoid a watery sauce. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the protein or using plant-based alternatives.
