Easy Rasta Pasta Recipe : A Spicy, Creamy, and Cheesy Delight

Last Updated on March 4, 2025 by Souhail

If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with bold Caribbean flavors, then this Rasta Pasta recipe is exactly what you need! This vibrant dish combines the warmth of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the comforting creaminess of an Italian-style pasta sauce. The result? A mouthwatering fusion of two incredible culinary traditions that will have you coming back for more.

Rasta Pasta is a colorful, spicy, and cheesy pasta dish, typically made with bell peppers, jerk seasoning, and a creamy sauce. It’s often paired with jerk chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. The dish gets its name from its bright red, yellow, and green bell peppers—colors associated with the Rastafarian movement. However, despite its name, Rasta Pasta isn’t a traditional Rastafarian dish, as many Rastafarians follow an Ital diet that excludes dairy and meat.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, or a flavorful addition to a special occasion, this Rasta Pasta recipe brings the essence of Jamaica straight to your kitchen. With the spicy kick of jerk seasoning, the sweetness of sautéed bell peppers, and the richness of a creamy cheese sauce, every bite is an explosion of flavors.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food, looking for a unique pasta dish, or just want to try something new, you’re going to love this recipe. Plus, it’s easy to customize! You can make it with chicken, shrimp, or go fully vegetarian by swapping in mushrooms or tofu. No matter how you prepare it, one thing is for sure—this dish will be a showstopper on your dinner table.

Why This Rasta Pasta Recipe Works

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Rasta Pasta recipe stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between heat, creaminess, and freshness. The jerk seasoning brings in a bold, smoky heat, while the creamy sauce tames the spice, creating a harmonious blend. The bell peppers add a slight sweetness and crunch that complement the dish beautifully.

Easy to Make and Highly Customizable

One of the best things about Rasta Pasta is how versatile it is. You can make it as spicy or as mild as you like, depending on your preference. You can also switch up the protein—chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms all work great in this dish. Plus, it can easily be made dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

Inspired by Authentic Caribbean Flavors

While Rasta Pasta isn’t an official Jamaican dish, it’s inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine. Jerk seasoning, a staple in Jamaican cooking, is the star of this dish. Traditionally made with allspice, thyme, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers, jerk seasoning infuses the pasta with a deep, complex flavor that makes it irresistibly delicious.

Great for Meal Prep

This Rasta Pasta recipe is a fantastic option for meal prepping because it reheats beautifully. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch or dinner. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier!

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Rasta Pasta recipe.

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta – Penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, but you can use rigatoni, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.

For the Protein (Optional, Choose One):

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cubed (for a vegetarian option)

And For the Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds a mild sweetness.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced – Contributes to the iconic Rasta colors.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced – Provides a slight bitterness to balance the flavors.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced – Enhances the depth of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that rich, savory taste.
• 1 scallion (green onion), chopped – Adds a fresh finishing touch.

For the Sauce:

• 1 ½ tbsp jerk seasoning – Use homemade or store-bought. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich and creamy sauce. Substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and a salty umami kick. Use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil – Helps sauté the ingredients to bring out their flavors.
• ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth – Thins out the sauce and adds extra flavor.
• ½ tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Balances the spice and enhances overall flavor.

Optional Additions:

• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat) – For those who love extra spice.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste – Adds a slightly tangy and rich flavor.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves – A classic herb in Caribbean cooking.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime at the end adds a bright, citrusy contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta (10 minutes)

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2: Prepare the Protein (10-15 minutes)

For Chicken:

1. Season the chicken strips with ½ tbsp of jerk seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil or butter in a large pan over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

And For Shrimp:

1. Toss the shrimp with ½ tbsp of jerk seasoning.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in the pan and cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

For Tofu:

1. Pat the tofu dry and cut it into cubes.
2. Toss with ½ tbsp of jerk seasoning and a little olive oil.
3. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3: Sauté the Vegetables (5 minutes)

1. In the same pan, add 1 tbsp butter and the sliced onions and bell peppers.
2. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
3. Add garlic and optional Scotch bonnet pepper, cooking for another minute.

4: Make the Creamy Jerk Sauce (5 minutes)

1. Lower the heat to medium and add heavy cream (or coconut milk). Stir well.
2. Pour in chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and stir to combine.
3. Add the remaining jerk seasoning and mix well.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

5: Combine Everything (5 minutes)

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat.
2. Return the cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pan. Toss everything together.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped scallions and optional fresh thyme.
2. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra brightness.
3. Enjoy your delicious homemade Rasta Pasta!

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Authentic Jerk Seasoning

Jerk seasoning is the heart of Rasta Pasta, so using a high-quality blend is crucial. If possible, make your own jerk seasoning for the best flavor.

2. Adjust Spice Levels

If you love intense heat, then go for a Scotch bonnet pepper. On the other hand, if you prefer milder flavors, simply reduce the jerk seasoning and skip the hot peppers.

3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Pasta should be cooked al dente since it will continue to absorb sauce once combined.

4. Let the Protein Rest

If you’re using chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

5. Save the Pasta Water

Adding a bit of pasta water to the sauce helps create a silkier texture and prevents the sauce from drying out.

6. Experiment with Different Proteins

Try swapping chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even jerk-seasoned salmon for a delicious twist.

Variants of the Rasta Pasta Recipe

1. Vegetarian or Vegan Rasta Pasta

If you’re looking for a meat-free option, replace the protein with mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh. Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version. This keeps all the bold Caribbean flavors while making it completely plant-based.

2. Seafood Rasta Pasta

For seafood lovers, shrimp or salmon makes a delicious alternative to chicken. Season the shrimp or salmon with jerk seasoning and pan-sear them before adding them to the pasta.

3. Spicy Jerk Rasta Pasta

If you love extra heat, use Scotch bonnet peppers or add extra jerk seasoning. You can also include a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for an even spicier kick.

4. Coconut Rasta Pasta

For a more tropical twist, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk. This adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the spice beautifully.

5. Cheesy Rasta Pasta Bake

Want to turn this into a baked pasta dish? Transfer the cooked pasta into a baking dish, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with a Side of Fried Plantains

The natural sweetness of fried plantains balances out the spicy and creamy flavors of Rasta Pasta beautifully.

2. Serve with Jamaican Rice and Peas

For a full Caribbean feast, serve your pasta alongside Jamaican rice and peas. The flavors complement each other perfectly.

3. Add a Side Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette can help refresh your palate and lighten up the meal.

4. Garlic Bread or Coco Bread

A slice of garlic bread or soft Jamaican coco bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy jerk sauce.

5. Pair with a Refreshing Drink

Cool down the spice with a tropical drink like mango juice, coconut water, or a pineapple mojito.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Store Rasta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• If possible, store the pasta and protein separately to prevent the pasta from soaking up all the sauce.

Freezing for Later

• While pasta dishes aren’t always ideal for freezing, you can freeze Rasta Pasta for up to 2 months.
• Use an airtight container and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat

• Stovetop (Best Method): Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce and heat over medium-low heat.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.

Recipe Card

Rasta Pasta Recipe

Recipe by SouhailCourse: DinnerDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

630

kcal

This Rasta Pasta recipe combines creamy, cheesy pasta with bold Caribbean jerk seasoning. It’s a perfect blend of heat, richness, and vibrant flavors!

Ingredients

• For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

• ½ cup reserved pasta water

• For the Protein (Choose One)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)

• ½ lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu (cubed)

• For the Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 scallion (green onion), chopped

• For the Sauce

• 1 ½ tbsp jerk seasoning

• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Optional Additions

• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

• Lime wedges for garnish

Directions

• Cook the Pasta
• Boil salted water and cook penne until al dente.
• Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
• Cook the Protein
• Season protein choice with ½ tbsp jerk seasoning.
• Sauté in 1 tbsp oil:
  – Chicken: 4-5 mins per side
  – Shrimp: 1-2 mins per side
  – Tofu: 5-6 mins, turning occasionally
• Remove from pan and set aside.
• Sauté Vegetables
• In the same pan, add butter and sauté onions & bell peppers for 3-4 mins.
• Add garlic and optional Scotch bonnet pepper; cook 1 more minute.
• Make the Creamy Sauce
• Reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream/coconut milk.
• Stir in broth, remaining jerk seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
• Combine Everything
• Add cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat.
• Return protein to the pan and mix well.
• If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
• Garnish and Serve
• Sprinkle with scallions and fresh thyme.
• Serve hot with lime wedges.

Notes

• Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing jerk seasoning.
• Coconut milk adds a tropical twist to the sauce.
• Leftovers store well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and bursting with Caribbean flavors, this Rasta Pasta recipe is the perfect choice. It’s a delicious fusion of Jamaican jerk seasoning and classic Italian pasta, making it a unique and comforting meal. Whether you serve it with chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.

The best part? Rasta Pasta is incredibly versatile and easy to adapt. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer, effortlessly swap out proteins to suit your taste, and even create a dairy-free version by using coconut milk instead of cream. In addition to that, it’s simple to prepare and works wonderfully for meal prep, ensuring you always have a flavorful, satisfying dish ready to enjoy throughout the week.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might love trying other delicious dishes from around the world. If you’re looking for another comforting meal, check out this Chicken and Pastry Recipe, a Southern classic that’s rich and hearty. Want to explore Jamaican flavors further? Pair your Rasta Pasta with a side of rice, and learn how to make restaurant-style rice for the perfect texture.

For those who love bold flavors, you might also enjoy Bang Bang Chicken, another dish with a kick, or try something completely different like Smothered Turkey Wings for a comforting meal.

No matter how you choose to prepare it, Rasta Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s bold, creamy, and packed with vibrant flavors that will instantly transport you straight to the Caribbean. So, if you give this recipe a try, be sure to leave a comment and let us know how it turned out!

More Recipes to Try:

• Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe – A cheesy and satisfying pasta dish.
• The Best Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe – The perfect sweet treat after a spicy meal.
• Homemade Apple Jam Recipe – A great way to add sweetness to your breakfast or desserts.

Enjoy your Rasta Pasta, and don’t forget to share your creation on social media!