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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a vibrant, spicy, and comforting fusion of shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and penne tossed in a rich coconut cream sauce.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup coconut cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp with jerk seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the sliced bell peppers for 2–3 minutes until tender but still vibrant. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in coconut cream and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted into a velvety sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Fold in seared shrimp, letting them reheat in the sauce. Add a splash of pasta water if needed. Top with chopped scallions.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with extra scallions or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Garnish with scallions, parsley, extra Parmesan, or charred lime for brightness.
  • Serve with sautéed greens, cucumber salad, crusty bread, mango salsa, or fried plantains.
  • Present in bowls, family-style platters, or appetizer cups for a dramatic effect.
  • Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; flavors deepen over time.
  • Freeze cooled portions for up to 1 month; reheat gently with added liquid.
  • Substitute coconut cream with heavy cream or a plant-based option.
  • Make vegetarian by replacing shrimp with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas.
  • Adjust spiciness with more or less jerk seasoning, cayenne, or scotch bonnet.
  • Use any short, hearty pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini.