If you’re craving a dish that bursts with Caribbean flavor, creamy indulgence, and vibrant colors, then you must try this Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe. It’s a joyful dance of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that wraps every bite in pure comfort. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the combination of jerk seasoning and creamy textures will make this one of your all-time favorites. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it’s impossible not to fall in love with the satisfying balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness it delivers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe is essential to building those rich layers of flavor and texture. From the aromatic jerk seasoning on the chicken to the trio of fresh bell peppers, every component adds something special — creating a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto that creamy sauce with every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, adding subtle richness.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced): A lean protein that soaks up the jerk seasoning beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning: The soul of the dish, bringing authentic Caribbean spices and heat.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Adds sweet, vibrant color and crunch.
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced): Brightens the plate and adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Offers a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to balance flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with fragrant savory depth.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Builds the sauce base with subtle umami and moisture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty richness for depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly, enhancing the sauce’s creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate and balance the dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onion for garnish: A fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens every bite.
How to Make Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. This is key because the pasta should have a little bite to complement the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breast generously with jerk seasoning, making sure every piece is coated with flavorful spices. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until it is golden brown and cooked through. Removing the chicken to a plate at this point allows you to focus on creating that rich sauce next.
Step 3: Sauté the Bell Peppers and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they soften slightly but still retain some crunch. This step develops sweet and aromatic layers that harmonize beautifully with the spicy jerk chicken.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, which adds depth and moisture to the dish. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to medium. Now add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until they melt into a smooth, velvety sauce that will coat every inch of your pasta.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked jerk chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly, making sure each piece of pasta and chicken is generously coated in that delicious creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to perfectly balance the spices and creaminess. Just in a few moments, you’ll have a stunning dish ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the creamy richness, sprinkle the Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. These fresh garnishes add a pop of vibrant color and an herbaceous note that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel fresh and lively.
Side Dishes
This crowd-pleasing pasta pairs wonderfully with light, crisp side dishes such as a simple garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. The fresh sides complement the bold spices and creamy sauce, balancing your meal perfectly without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving this pasta in hollowed-out bell peppers or mini cast iron skillets for individual portions. You can also sprinkle a little extra jerk seasoning or chili flakes on top to enhance the presentation and flavor. The vibrant colors of the pasta itself make for a naturally stunning plate that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors marry beautifully overnight, so the next day’s meal might even be better. Just be sure to cool the dish quickly before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
While this Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions by wrapping them tightly in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. When thawed, the sauce might separate slightly but reheating with a splash of cream or broth helps bring back that silky texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Adding a small amount of chicken broth or cream while reheating will refresh the sauce and keep it creamy and smooth just like when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make this Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to keep it satisfying while maintaining that creamy and spicy palate. The bell peppers and rich sauce still make the dish vibrant and delicious.
How spicy is the jerk seasoning in this recipe?
The jerk seasoning adds a moderate heat level with aromatic herbs and spices. If you prefer less heat, start with a smaller amount of seasoning, and for a spicier kick, feel free to add more or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne works beautifully because of its shape, you can also try rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well under the creamy sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely. The creamy texture and balanced spices make it kid-friendly. You can adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to be milder to suit younger palates while still keeping that authentic Caribbean flavor.
What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
A fresh green salad, some roasted plantains, or steamed vegetables work perfectly alongside this Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe. These sides add texture and nutrition, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes when you want something both comforting and exciting. The harmonious blend of spicy jerk seasoning, creamy sauce, and colorful fresh veggies creates a meal that’s as joyful to eat as it is to make. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and dive into the delicious world of Caribbean-inspired comfort food with this unforgettable pasta dish!
Print
Creamy Rasta Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean-Inspired
Description
Creamy Rasta Pasta is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish that combines tender jerk-seasoned chicken, sautéed colorful bell peppers, and a luscious creamy sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This hearty pasta recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and creamy flavors, making it an ideal main course for a comforting yet flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onion
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with jerk seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until the peppers are tender but still vibrant.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce heat to medium. Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine & Toss: Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Add the reserved pasta and toss everything together thoroughly so that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Creamy Rasta Pasta.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add extra jerk seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding mushrooms or spinach.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance the dish’s freshness and appearance.
