Creamy, spicy, colorful, and incredibly satisfying—Rasta Pasta is one of those dishes that brings excitement to the dinner table every time. Inspired by Caribbean flavors, this dish combines tender pasta with juicy chicken or shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, and a luscious, seasoned cream sauce. The heat from jerk seasoning balanced with creaminess makes every bite a little celebration.

What makes Rasta Pasta special is how adaptable it is. Whether you keep it vegetarian or go all-in with shrimp and grilled chicken, the bold flavor remains unmatched. The vibrant mix of colors and flavors isn’t just beautiful to look at, it delivers in taste too. Perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Rasta Pasta?

Rasta Pasta works best with pasta that holds sauce well. Rotini, penne, and fettuccine are popular picks. Rotini’s twists catch all that creamy jerk-spiced sauce perfectly, while penne and fettuccine offer a hearty base. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try it with linguine or rigatoni.

Ingredients for the Easy Rasta Pasta Recipe

Rotini Pasta
Its spiral shape holds the sauce beautifully and adds fun texture to every bite.

Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, Green)
These colorful peppers bring sweetness, crunch, and visual appeal. They’re a core component of Rasta Pasta.

Jerk Seasoning
This bold Jamaican blend adds the signature heat and depth of flavor.

Heavy Cream
Creates the rich and silky base of the sauce, balancing the heat from the jerk spice.

Garlic and Onion
Aromatic base ingredients that layer in savory depth.

Grilled Chicken and/or Shrimp
Adds protein and makes the dish heartier. You can go with either or both, depending on preference.

Parmesan Cheese
Adds saltiness and umami that rounds out the creaminess of the sauce.

Green Onions & Fresh Basil (for garnish)
Brighten the finished dish with a fresh and slightly herbal finish.

How To Make the Easy Rasta Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook your rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. This forms the hearty base of the dish, so don’t overcook it.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers with chopped onions and garlic until just softened and slightly caramelized. This creates a flavorful and colorful veggie base.

Step 3: Cook the Protein

Season your chicken or shrimp generously with jerk seasoning. Grill or pan-sear until fully cooked and lightly charred. Slice the chicken or leave the shrimp whole. Set aside to be added back in later.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet with the veggies, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese and another dash of jerk seasoning. The sauce should be creamy with a spicy kick.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta and cooked protein to the skillet with the creamy sauce and peppers. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Top with extra Parmesan, chopped green onions, and a few fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve and Store Easy Rasta Pasta

Easy Rasta Pasta is best served hot, right out of the skillet. The creamy jerk sauce clings to the pasta and protein while the peppers still retain their slight crunch. You can serve it with garlic bread or a simple side salad to complete the meal.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Freezing isn’t recommended as the cream sauce can separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Just skip the chicken and shrimp, and add more bell peppers or even mushrooms for a meaty texture. Tofu also works well with the creamy jerk sauce.

What can I use if I don’t have jerk seasoning?

You can make a quick DIY version with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and allspice. Or substitute with Cajun seasoning for a different twist.

Can I use a different kind of cream?

Absolutely. You can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Is Rasta Pasta spicy?

It depends on your jerk seasoning. Some blends are hotter than others. Start with less, taste, and build up the heat to your liking.

What type of cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for melting into the sauce without clumping. You can also experiment with Romano or a sharp white cheddar for a more intense flavor.

Can I prep anything in advance?

Definitely. Chop the peppers and garlic, and marinate the protein ahead of time. You can even cook the pasta and store it separately until you’re ready to combine everything.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If you enjoyed this Easy Rasta Pasta, you’ll love exploring these other comforting and flavor-packed recipes from LifeWithOlivia:

• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet for smoky heat and creamy goodness.
• Sweet & Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta to satisfy both heat and sweet cravings.
• One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a bold twist on steak night.
• Creamy Spicy Buffalo Ranch Pasta if you’re craving heat with a ranchy tang.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a cozy, family-friendly twist.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it later on those busy weeknights.

And when you give it a try, leave a comment below! Did you go with shrimp, chicken, or both? Did you turn up the heat or keep it mild?

I’d love to hear how you made this dish your own. Questions, tweaks, and tips welcome—let’s cook and share together.

Easy Rasta Pasta Recipe

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, vibrant, and bursting with Caribbean-inspired spice, this Easy Rasta Pasta combines tender rotini with colorful bell peppers, jerk-seasoned protein, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a bold and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Cook rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté bell peppers, onion, and garlic until softened.
Season chicken or shrimp with jerk seasoning. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through and slightly charred. Set aside.
Lower the heat and add heavy cream to the skillet. Simmer gently.

Stir in Parmesan cheese and more jerk seasoning as needed. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
Add pasta and cooked protein into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and green onions.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner