If you’re looking for a bold, flavorful, and creamy pasta dish that’s loaded with Caribbean flair, Rasta Pasta is the recipe you need . Bursting with vibrant bell peppers, rich cream sauce, and the heat of jerk seasoning, this dish is a fusion masterpiece that blends Italian pasta comfort with Jamaican spice magic. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you want to impress guests with something unique!
Ingredients for Rasta Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring authentic Rasta Pasta to life:
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12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or any short pasta you prefer)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or shrimp for variation), sliced into strips
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2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely diced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for extra creaminess)
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1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
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2 scallions (green onions), chopped
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: Scotch bonnet pepper (for authentic Jamaican heat, use sparingly!)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large pot for boiling pasta
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Deep skillet or sauté pan
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Strainer for pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Rasta Pasta
Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and set aside.
Season the Chicken
Place the sliced chicken breasts in a bowl and coat them with jerk seasoning. If you’re using shrimp, toss them the same way. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes for deeper flavor.
Cook the Protein
Heat olive oil and butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. For an extra authentic kick, toss in a tiny piece of Scotch bonnet pepper (careful—it’s hot!).
Make the Creamy Jerk Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Add smoked paprika, extra jerk seasoning (if desired), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss until well coated with the creamy jerk sauce. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra jerk spice.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped scallions and parsley on top for freshness . Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Rasta Pasta
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Protein Choices: Swap chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
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Cream Alternatives: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free and Caribbean-inspired version.
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Extra Spice: If you’re a heat lover, add more Scotch bonnet or a pinch of cayenne.
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Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella for an extra gooey, cheesy sauce.
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Meal Prep Friendly: Rasta Pasta reheats well—just store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with garlic bread or plantain chips for a fun twist.
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Add a fresh side salad with citrus dressing to balance the creaminess.
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Enjoy it as a main dish for dinner or make smaller portions for party servings.
Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving)
(based on 4 servings with chicken)
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Calories: 620 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 58g
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Fat: 28g
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Saturated Fat: 14g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sodium: 840mg
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Sugar: 6g
Why You’ll Love Rasta Pasta
Rasta Pasta isn’t just a recipe—it’s a cultural blend of Italian comfort food and Jamaican spice tradition. The creaminess soothes the spice, while the peppers and herbs keep it vibrant and fresh. It’s the perfect dish when you want something hearty, flavorful, and truly unforgettable.
Conclusion: Bring the Islands to Your Kitchen
Now that you know how to make Rasta Pasta, it’s time to bring this creamy, spicy, and colorful dish to your dinner table. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just craving a pasta night with a twist, this recipe will satisfy every bite. So grab your jerk seasoning, toss those peppers, and create a Caribbean-Italian fusion masterpiece tonight.
Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds dance to the rhythm of the islands with every forkful of Rasta Pasta!
