Easy Rasta Pasta

Rasta Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors, making it a must-try for pasta lovers and fans of bold Caribbean spices. This one-pot meal is incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet quick

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Cuisine: Caribbean
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love Making It

  • Bold Caribbean Flavors – Jerk seasoning gives this pasta a spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet kick.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
  • Creamy & Cheesy – A rich parmesan-cream sauce coats every bite of pasta.
  • Colorful & Vibrant – Bell peppers add crunch, color, and natural sweetness.
  • Customizable – Use shrimp instead of chicken or make it vegetarian by swapping the protein for mushrooms or tofu.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces (450 g) dried pasta – Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best for holding the creamy sauce.
  • 2 large chicken breasts or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken – Adds protein and heartiness.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – One for cooking the chicken, one for sautéing the vegetables.
  • 3 tablespoons jerk seasoning – Divided; half for seasoning the chicken, half for flavoring the sauce.
  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced – Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
  • ½ cup green onions, sliced – Mild onion flavor that enhances the dish.
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts flavor with a rich aroma.
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable stock or chicken stock – Helps loosen the sauce and adds extra flavor.
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half – Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
  • ½ cup (80 g) parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce.
  • Garnish: Chopped chives, green onions, or parsley – Adds a fresh, bright finishing touch.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss the chicken with 1.5 tablespoons of jerk seasoning until well coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the green onions and minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle the remaining 1.5 tablespoons of jerk seasoning into the pan and stir to coat the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, stirring to deglaze the pan. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Combine & Simmer

Add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and incorporated.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta & Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy jerk sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Garnish & Enjoy

Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped chives, green onions, or parsley for freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, creamy flavors of Rasta Pasta!

FAQs

Can I make Rasta Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.

What can I serve with Rasta Pasta?
Serve it with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of white wine or a tropical drink to enhance the Caribbean flavors.

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