Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

The comforting richness of these Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls makes them a standout dish for weeknights and gatherings alike. Each lasagna sheet is carefully rolled with a luscious blend of ricotta cheese, tender spinach, and savory chopped shrimp, then baked under a dreamy roasted red pepper cream sauce that ties the whole dish together with a silky, smoky finish.

This baked pasta dish is a fantastic way to elevate leftovers or use up extra cooked shrimp, and it’s endlessly adaptable swap in kale for spinach, or add a touch of spice to the sauce. The combination of seafood and cheesy, creamy filling wrapped in soft pasta delivers a restaurant-quality experience right from your oven.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 cooked lasagna noodles

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 1/2 cups cooked shrimp, chopped

• 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade), pureed

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Set aside to cool.

3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, basil, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach mixture. Stir in chopped shrimp.

4. Lay out lasagna noodles flat and evenly spread the filling over each. Roll them up and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

5. In a saucepan, combine roasted red pepper puree, cream, and smoked paprika. Heat gently over low heat until warm and creamy.

6. Pour the red pepper cream sauce over the pasta rolls and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce

When it comes to impressive yet comforting baked pasta dishes, Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce stand in a league of their own. Combining the elegance of seafood with the heartiness of baked pasta, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen without complicated techniques. The balance of tender shrimp, creamy cheese filling, earthy spinach, and smoky red pepper sauce makes it a favorite among both casual home cooks and seasoned foodies.

Below, we’ll explore why this recipe is worth making, the elements that make it stand out, the nutritional benefits, serving ideas, potential variations, and common mistakes to avoid to guarantee delicious results.

Why This Dish Works So Well

Stuffed pasta rolls often referred to as lasagna roll-ups are not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly functional. Instead of layering ingredients like traditional lasagna, each noodle becomes its own vessel for a creamy filling, rolled individually and baked in a sauce that keeps everything moist and flavorful.

Shrimp adds a delicate seafood flavor that pairs beautifully with ricotta and spinach, providing a lightness that’s balanced by the richness of the roasted red pepper cream sauce. The roasted red peppers themselves bring a subtle sweetness and smoky undertone that cuts through the creamy textures, making every bite balanced and satisfying.

The Perfect Balance of Ingredients

At the heart of this recipe is balance. The seafood component shrimp offers a lean protein that absorbs flavor well and cooks quickly. Ricotta and parmesan create a creamy, slightly tangy base that complements the shrimp, while spinach adds a nutrient-rich layer with its slightly bitter, earthy notes.

The roasted red pepper cream sauce is truly the hero element that ties the dish together. It’s vibrant in color and rich in taste without being overwhelming. The use of smoked paprika enhances the roasted flavor, and the cream ensures the sauce clings to each roll beautifully while baking.

Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits

Despite being indulgent in flavor and presentation, this dish offers several health benefits:

• High Protein Content: Thanks to the shrimp and cheese, each serving delivers a good dose of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach contributes iron, calcium, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Roasted red peppers are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene.
• Moderate Calories: While the dish is creamy, it’s possible to reduce calories by substituting heavy cream with a light alternative or using low-fat ricotta.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp provides essential omega-3s that support heart and brain health.

With thoughtful preparation and portioning, this recipe can be part of a balanced, satisfying meal plan.

Origins and Inspiration

This dish is a modern take on classic Italian comfort food. It combines elements of cannelloni and lasagna, but with a seafood twist and a creative, colorful sauce not often seen in traditional Italian homes. The roasted red pepper cream sauce is a nod to Mediterranean influences, where peppers and seafood often share a plate.

It’s also a great example of zero-waste cooking. The recipe works well with leftover shrimp or repurposed pasta noodles, and it welcomes improvisation with what you have in your fridge, making it a sustainable, practical option for mindful cooks.

Occasions to Serve This Dish

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a romantic meal, or simply looking to impress with minimal effort, Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls are an ideal choice. They look elegant and are easy to prepare in advance.

This dish is also freezer-friendly. You can make a double batch, freeze half, and bake it later for a quick yet impressive meal. It’s hearty enough to be a main course on its own, but also versatile enough to be paired with sides for a larger spread.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider the following pairing ideas:

• Side Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Ideal for soaking up extra red pepper cream sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus offer great flavor contrast and added nutrients.
• White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the seafood and balances the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your pasta rolls turn out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the Noodles: Cook them al dente so they’re pliable but firm enough to hold the filling.
• Using Wet Spinach: After sautéing or thawing, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach. Otherwise, your filling may turn watery.
• Overfilling the Rolls: Too much filling can cause them to break or not roll properly. Use a modest amount for best results.
• Dry Baking Dish: Always spread a layer of sauce in the dish before placing the rolls to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Let the dish sit for 5–10 minutes after baking. It helps the flavors settle and makes serving cleaner.

Easy Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap Shrimp for Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken breast is a great alternative for those avoiding seafood.
• Add More Veggies: Finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes can be added to the filling.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of chili oil to the sauce for heat.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets or even thinly sliced zucchini strips as the pasta base.
• Vegan Version: Replace shrimp with sautéed tofu or white beans, use vegan ricotta, and substitute the cream with a cashew-based sauce.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully. For meal prepping:

• Assemble the rolls and sauce, then refrigerate or freeze before baking.
• To freeze, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Label with the date.
• When ready to cook from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks or last-minute guests.

Conclusion: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce are more than just a pretty plate they’re a celebration of bold flavor, creamy texture, and home-cooked comfort. The dish feels luxurious yet approachable, thanks to its easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Perfect for both special occasions and casual dinners, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a pasta enthusiast, or someone who enjoys experimenting with flavors, this baked pasta creation offers endless possibilities. Try it once, and it may just become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.