If you’re craving something outrageously flavorful and vibrant, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta will steal the show. It’s a gorgeous blend of tender, spicy shrimp tossed with colorful bell peppers and pasta, all swimming in a dreamy coconut cream sauce spiked with a gentle heat. Every forkful is a celebration—the bright veggies, juicy shrimp, and silky sauce come together in a dish that’s pure joy. This island-inspired pasta is incredibly irresistible yet simple to make, capturing the spirit of both comfort food and Caribbean flair in each bite.

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is how each ingredient plays a role in giving you that classic fusion of creamy, spicy, and bold flavors. Don’t skip a thing—each element adds a layer, from the kick of jerk seasoning to the pop of fresh herbs and that all-important coconut cream.

Shrimp: Go for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp—they cook quickly and soak up all those island flavors.
Penne Pasta: This sturdy pasta holds all the luscious sauce and peppers beautifully; feel free to use gluten-free if needed.
Bell Peppers (red, yellow, green): For that signature Rasta color and a fresh, sweet crunch.
Jerk Seasoning: The heart and soul of the dish—use your favorite store-bought blend or make one from scratch for extra punch.
Garlic: It brings everything together with a lovely aromatic depth.
Coconut Cream: The magic behind the creamy, rich sauce and signature tropical flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: For melting into the sauce and giving it that incredible silky finish.
Scallions (green onions): Sprinkled over the top for a gentle bite and fresh color.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the shrimp and sauté veggies to tender perfection.
Fresh Thyme: A tiny sprinkle in the sauce weaves in beautiful herbal notes.
Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning every layer to perfection, ensuring all those flavors shine.

How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Begin by generously seasoning your shrimp with jerk seasoning, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear them for about a minute or two on each side, just until they turn pink and have a bit of lovely caramelization. Remove the shrimp and set aside—you’ll nestle them back in at the very end.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and toss in your sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, letting them get a bit tender yet keeping their crispness and vibrant color. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme, stirring for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell fantastic at this point!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the coconut cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more jerk spice if you love it fiery—just don’t forget, the pasta and shrimp will mellow out the heat.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the sauce, tossing so every piece gets coated in that beautiful cream. Gently fold in the seared shrimp, letting them reheat and infuse the sauce with their flavor. Add a splash of pasta water if your sauce feels too thick. Scatter chopped scallions over the top for freshness and color.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Spoon generous portions onto plates while everything is piping hot. Garnish with extra scallions or a bit more Parmesan, and marvel at just how gorgeous and inviting this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta looks. You’re in for a treat with every bite—creamy, spicy, colorful, and absolutely satisfying.

How to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh scallions or parsley over the top instantly brightens up the finished pasta dish. Add a handful of grated Parmesan or even a slice of charred lime for a punchy, aromatic finish—you can also drizzle a little extra coconut cream or olive oil for added richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty enough to be a full meal, but for a real island-inspired dinner, pair it with garlicky sautéed greens, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some warm, crusty bread for mopping up every bit of the creamy sauce. A simple mango salsa or fried plantains also make stunning side kicks to Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta into a showstopper by serving it in shallow bowls topped with extra colorful pepper slices and a sprinkle of microgreens. For parties, pile it high on a platter family-style, or scoop it into mini cups for an appetizer that’s as fun as it is flavorful. Don’t be shy—this dish loves a little drama!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen as it sits, so you’re in for a delicious encore meal with very little effort.

Freezing

While pasta with a cream-based sauce can sometimes separate when frozen, Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta holds up better than most thanks to the coconut cream. Just make sure to cool it fully before freezing in individual portions, and enjoy it within a month for best quality.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or coconut milk to bring back its luscious texture. Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long so they stay tender—you want every bite as perfect as the first.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta without coconut cream?

Yes! While coconut cream adds classic richness, you can substitute heavy cream or a creamy plant-based alternative if coconut isn’t your thing. The result will be slightly different in flavor, but still delicious.

Which type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are perfect for Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta, as they stay juicy and stand out against the pasta. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work—just be sure to pat them dry before seasoning.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or even chickpeas for protein. The creamy, spicy sauce works wonders with many vegetables and plant-based proteins, making it easy to please everyone at the table.

How spicy is the finished dish?

The heat level depends on your jerk seasoning. If you love things extra spicy, add a diced scotch bonnet or a pinch of cayenne with the peppers. If you prefer mild, simply use less jerk blend and taste as you go.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Totally! Any hearty, short pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini works beautifully. The main thing is to use a shape that catches the lovely sauce and veggies so every bite is exciting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so rewarding about a bowl of Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta—it’s vibrant, warming, and full of bold flavors that linger in the best possible way. If you’re looking to impress, comfort, or simply savor something new, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try and let your kitchen burst with a taste of the Caribbean!

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe