Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta: Flavorful 10-Min Dish

Name: Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta: Flavorful 10-Min Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta; 1 pound of shrimp, deveined and peeled; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 cup of chicken broth; 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning; 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon of lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

by Fatima Garcia

•

2 de September de 2025

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta has become my absolute go-to for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal that transports me straight to the islands. I first tasted something similar at a small Jamaican restaurant years ago, and the vibrant blend of spices, succulent shrimp, and that lusciously creamy sauce was unforgettable. This particular Jamaican shrimp recipe is my attempt to capture that magic at home, and it truly delivers. The aroma alone, a mix of garlic, peppers, and that signature jerk spice, fills my kitchen with such warmth. You’ll love how easily it comes together, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

This dish is a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Here’s why it’s going to be your new favorite:

It’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
The balance of sweet peppers and savory shrimp is divine.
You get that authentic Jamaican flavor profile without a fuss.
The luscious jerk shrimp with cream sauce is simply irresistible.
It’s a visually stunning dish that will impress your guests.
The creamy texture combined with tender shrimp is pure comfort.
Enjoy the delightful warmth of a well-spiced jerk shrimp with cream sauce.
It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table.

Ingredients for Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

Gathering these vibrant ingredients is the first step to an unforgettable meal. This recipe is a fantastic way to explore flavors reminiscent of a delicious coconut milk Jamaican shrimp dish. You’ll need:

8 ounces of fettuccine pasta – cooked al dente
1 pound of shrimp, deveined and peeled – choose large or jumbo for best results
1 tablespoon of olive oil – for sautéing
1 bell pepper (any color), sliced – red or yellow add beautiful color
1 cup of heavy cream – the base for our luscious sauce
1 cup of chicken broth – adds depth to the sauce
2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning – adjust to your spice preference
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – for richness and flavor
2 cloves of garlic, minced – essential for aromatic depth
1 tablespoon of lime juice – brightens all the flavors
Salt and pepper to taste – season as you go
Fresh parsley for garnish – adds a pop of green and freshness

How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

Let’s get this vibrant dish on your table! This recipe breaks down the process into simple, manageable steps, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. You’ll love how quickly this spicy Jamaican shrimp pasta comes together, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente – that means it should still have a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside. Don’t rinse it; the starch helps the sauce cling later!
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, it’s time to season your shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss the deveined and peeled shrimp with salt, pepper, and those essential 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb all that incredible flavor. This step really helps the spices penetrate for a truly spicy Jamaican shrimp pasta.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Peppers
Grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, just until the peppers start to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. You’ll smell that amazing aroma building!
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the peppers and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn a beautiful pink and are opaque all the way through. Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll become tough. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Now, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and whisk it in. Let this mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Mix in Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the creamy sauce. For an extra burst of brightness, add the 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Give it a good stir to combine everything beautifully.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Now for the grand finale! Add the cooked fettuccine and the sautéed shrimp back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that every strand of pasta and every piece of shrimp is coated in that delicious, rich sauce. This is where it all comes together into a perfect spicy Jamaican shrimp pasta.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, it’s crucial to taste your creation. Use a spoon to sample the dish and see if it needs any additional salt, pepper, or even a pinch more jerk seasoning to amp up the heat. Adjusting the seasoning at this stage ensures your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta is perfectly balanced.
Step 9: Serve the Dish
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is perfectly creamy. Enjoy this taste of the islands!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

To elevate your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta from good to absolutely unforgettable, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Focusing on quality ingredients and a few key techniques makes all the difference.

For truly authentic Jamaican shrimp flavor, don’t skimp on the jerk seasoning; taste and adjust it to your preference.
Using fresh, high-quality shrimp is essential for the best texture and taste.
Letting the shrimp marinate in the jerk seasoning for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking really deepens the flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta?

The real secret lies in building layers of flavor. Sautéing the garlic and peppers first releases their aromatics, and using chicken broth in the sauce adds a savory depth that makes it almost like a one-pot Jamaican shrimp dish. For more information on building flavor in cooking, you can check out resources on flavor building.

Can I make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta ahead of time?

You can prep most components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauté the peppers and garlic up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the shrimp and make the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the shrimp; watch them closely! Another mistake is not letting the sauce simmer long enough to thicken properly. Ensure you taste and adjust the seasoning before serving for that perfect balance.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

This vibrant dish is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few complementary sides. For a truly authentic experience, consider serving it with a side of fluffy rice and peas, which soak up the delicious creamy sauce perfectly. You could also offer some crusty garlic bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. If you’re looking for something a bit different, a light, fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette cuts through the richness wonderfully. For those who love exploring Jamaican flavors, you might even find that pairing this with a mild Jamaican shrimp curry recipe creates a delightful Caribbean feast.

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta: Flavorful 10-Min Dish - Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

When enjoying this flavorful Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta, here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving. This recipe is designed to be a satisfying main course, offering a good balance of macronutrients.

Calories: 550 kcal
Fat: 25g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta is so delicious, you might have leftovers, and thankfully, it stores beautifully. Once your flavorful easy Jamaican shrimp dinner has cooled down completely, transfer any remaining portions into airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to preserve it for longer, this dish also freezes remarkably well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta

What are the key Jamaican Rasta shrimp ingredients I need?

To truly capture the essence of this dish, you’ll want to focus on authentic Jamaican flavors. Key ingredients include good quality shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, garlic, and of course, a flavorful jerk seasoning. The creamy sauce base typically uses heavy cream and chicken broth, with Parmesan cheese for richness and lime juice for brightness. These elements combine to make it a standout Jamaican shrimp recipe.

How do I make Rasta shrimp that’s truly authentic?

Achieving that authentic taste is all about the seasoning and the sauce. Make sure you use a good quality jerk seasoning – it’s the heart of the flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to let the shrimp marinate in it for a bit before cooking. The creamy sauce made with heavy cream and chicken broth, finished with Parmesan and lime, is what gives it that signature richness. It’s the combination of these elements that truly defines how to make Rasta shrimp.

Can I substitute the pasta in Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic, you can easily swap it out. Linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta work wonderfully. For a lower-carb option, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are great alternatives. The goal is to have a base that holds that delicious, creamy sauce and complements the shrimp.

What makes it different from other creamy shrimp pasta dishes?

The distinct Jamaican influence sets this dish apart. It’s the bold, spicy notes from the jerk seasoning, often balanced with the sweetness of bell peppers and the tang of lime, that give it a unique Caribbean flair. While other creamy shrimp pastas might rely on garlic, butter, or white wine, this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta brings a tropical warmth and a kick that’s truly special.

Variations of Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta You Can Try

This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta is so versatile, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. I love experimenting with different flavor profiles and methods to keep things interesting.

For a Dairy-Free Twist: Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This creates a wonderfully rich, dairy-free version that still delivers that signature creamy texture.
Make it a One-Pot Wonder: Cook the pasta directly in the sauce! Add the uncooked fettuccine to the simmering sauce (you might need a bit more broth), cover, and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. This is a fantastic shortcut for an easy Jamaican shrimp dinner.
Spice it Up Even More: If you adore a truly spicy creamy shrimp recipe, add a finely minced Scotch bonnet pepper (seeds and membrane removed for less heat, or leave them in for a real kick!) along with the garlic and peppers. Handle with care!
Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of sauce simmering for added color, texture, and nutrients.

About the Author

Fatima Garcia