Easy Rasta Pasta Recipe

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I’ve made a lot of pasta dishes in my kitchen, but nothing quite excites my taste buds like this Easy Rasta Pasta. The first time I whipped it up, I was craving something creamy, colorful, and packed with bold Caribbean flavor. When I set the plate on the table, I couldn’t stop smiling at the vibrant peppers against the luscious sauce clinging to each strand of pasta.

The way the creamy, cheesy sauce mingles with spicy jerk seasoning and juicy chicken is pure magic. It feels like a dish that transports you straight to the islands with every bite. I love how quick and simple it is to throw together, yet it still tastes like you spent all afternoon on it. Whenever friends come over, it’s my go-to because it never fails to impress.

What keeps me coming back to this recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you keep it vegetarian or load it with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu, it always turns out perfectly delicious. It’s comfort food with a tropical twist, and I can’t wait for you to try it.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Rasta Pasta Recipe

This Easy Rasta Pasta is creamy, flavorful, and bursting with color. It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. You’ll love how the jerk seasoning adds a warm kick without overpowering the creamy, cheesy sauce. Plus, it’s versatile — perfect for adding your favorite proteins or keeping it meatless. If you’re a fan of bold, comforting meals with a Caribbean flair, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Penne pasta is my favorite choice for this dish because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce so beautifully. You’ll also need colorful bell peppers — I use red, yellow, and green for that signature Rasta look and a nice sweetness. Don’t forget fresh garlic, which gives the sauce depth and aroma. Heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese create the luscious base of the sauce. For protein, I usually go with chicken breast, but shrimp or tofu work just as well. Finally, jerk seasoning is what brings the bold Caribbean heat and flavor.

How to Make Easy Rasta Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Season your chicken breast with jerk seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and the sliced bell peppers until they soften but still have a little bite. This keeps them colorful and flavorful.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and stir in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add more jerk seasoning to taste, and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat well in the sauce. Let it simmer for another minute to heat through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with a little extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily swap out the protein in this Easy Rasta Pasta. Try plump shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian version. Not a fan of penne? Bowties or linguine also work wonderfully. To make it a little lighter, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it won’t be quite as rich. If you’re looking for a vegan option, coconut milk and nutritional yeast can replace the cream and cheese beautifully.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I love serving this dish straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs well with a light side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Warm garlic bread is also perfect to scoop up any leftover sauce. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a tropical rum cocktail really brings out the Caribbean vibes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend adding a splash of cream or milk and warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce overnight, so this helps bring it back to its creamy best.

FAQs

What is Easy Rasta Pasta?

It’s a creamy pasta dish inspired by Caribbean flavors, featuring colorful bell peppers, jerk-seasoned chicken, and a cheesy cream sauce.

Can I make Easy Rasta Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Can I make Easy Rasta Pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the chicken and add more peppers, tofu, or even chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.

How spicy is Easy Rasta Pasta?

The spiciness depends on your jerk seasoning. You can make it mild by using less, or kick it up with an extra sprinkle.

Can I freeze Easy Rasta Pasta?

I don’t recommend freezing it as the cream sauce can separate, but it keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Related Recipes You’ll Like

If you’re in the mood for more creamy, flavorful pasta dishes, you might enjoy my Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a seafood spin with a similar kick. You could also try Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella for another indulgent, cheesy weeknight meal. And if you love veggie sides with your pasta, don’t miss my Roasted Zucchini and Squash to round out the plate.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Easy Rasta Pasta makes you as happy as it does me, don’t forget to save it for later. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it anytime you crave a creamy Caribbean-inspired dinner. And feel free to share it with your friends and family — they’ll thank you for introducing them to their new favorite pasta dish!

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