The aroma of sizzling garlic and shrimp fills the kitchen, transporting me to a cozy trattoria tucked away in Italy. Today, I’m excited to share my twist on a classic dish with these Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce. Not only is this recipe a delightful crowd-pleaser, but it also allows you to impress your guests with minimal effort. Filled with tender shrimp, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach, each pasta roll is then baked under a luscious roasted red pepper cream sauce that makes every bite irresistible. What’s even better? You can easily swap in gluten-free lasagna noodles for a lighter option, making this indulgence accessible for everyone. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Make Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta?

Flavorful Fusion: The tender shrimp and earthy spinach come together in a cheesy, ricotta-filled delight that bursts with flavor in every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for gatherings, this dish impresses without keeping you in the kitchen all day. Pair it with a side of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a complete feast!
Easy Make-Ahead Option: Prep these rolls ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready. No stress, just enjoyment!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute chicken or mushrooms if you’re in the mood for something different, making this recipe adaptable for your taste.
Gluten-Free Friendly: With a simple swap to gluten-free lasagna noodles, everyone can join in on this tasty treat!

Each roll is a delicious bite of comfort, making mealtime a moment to savor.

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Ingredients

For the Filling

Large Shrimp – Provides a savory seafood flavor; use medium to large sized, peeled, and deveined for the best texture.
Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing garlic and shrimp; can substitute with butter for a richer taste.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh is preferred but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Fresh Spinach – Infuses a vibrant color and earthy taste; you can use frozen spinach if it’s drained properly.
Ricotta Cheese – Acts as the creamy base for the filling; cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds flavor and creaminess; you can use pecorino cheese instead for a sharper taste.
Egg – Binds the filling together; a flax egg or applesauce works for an egg-free option.

For the Sauce

Roasted Red Peppers – Forms the base of the cream sauce and adds sweetness; jarred peppers are convenient or use homemade roasted ones.
Heavy Cream – Creates a lush, smooth sauce; substitute with milk or a dairy-free cream for a lighter options.
Herbs (optional) – Enhances flavor, with basil and oregano being ideal choices; dried herbs are a great alternative if fresh isn’t available.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Elevate your mealtime with these Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls, all thanks to this delightful ingredient assembly!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Next, toss in 1 pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and season lightly with salt and pepper. Once the spinach wilts, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, and optional dried herbs like basil and oregano. Add the cooled shrimp and spinach mixture to the bowl. Stir everything together until it forms a creamy, cohesive filling. This flavorful filling will bring life to your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until golden, about 1 minute. Add 1 jar (approximately 12 ounces) of roasted red peppers, cooking for another 2 minutes. Carefully transfer this mixture to a blender, along with 1 cup of heavy cream. Blend until smooth, then return to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a luscious cream sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the roasted red pepper cream sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. For each lasagna noodle, spoon about 3 tablespoons of the shrimp-spinach filling across, then roll it up gently. Place each filled roll seam-side down into the baking dish. Repeat until all filling is used, layering them snugly in the dish.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Cover the assembled Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with the remaining roasted red pepper cream sauce, ensuring they are generously coated. Bake in the preheated oven, covered with aluminum foil, for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and allow to bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. To serve, garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh herbs, if desired. These Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls pair beautifully with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a delicious, comforting meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time and enjoy a delicious dinner on busy nights! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance, simply place them in a greased baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, be sure to store the roasted red pepper cream sauce separately until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, pour the sauce over the rolls, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until golden. Enjoy the same delightful flavors with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

The delightful flavor of stuffed pasta pairs beautifully with a few simple sides that bring out its comforting richness.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, this classic accompaniment soaks up every bit of that luscious roasted red pepper cream sauce.
Crisp Green Salad: A blend of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing balance.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender and slightly crisp asparagus drizzled with lemon juice enhances the dish with brightness and an elegant touch.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots brings vibrant flavor and a delightful texture that complements the pasta rolls.
White Wine: Choose a chilled Sauvignon Blanc for its crisp acidity, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and enhances the dish’s seafood elements.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a sweet, coffee-infused finale that rounds out your meal with a velvety touch.

Each pairing enhances the comfort and flavors of the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls, creating a memorable dining experience!

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and adapt these stuffed pasta rolls to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a deliciously accessible option that everyone can enjoy.
Chicken Twist: Substitute shrimp with cooked, shredded chicken for a comforting and hearty alternative. This works wonderfully with creamy ricotta!
Mushroom Medley: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms for a rich, umami-packed filling that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the filling for a burst of tangy flavor. They add depth and a pop of color, making each roll even more enticing.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for the filling—each will impart a unique flavor that elevates your dish!
Add Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the filling or sauce for a spicy kick that brings the rolls to life.
Lemon Zest: Include a teaspoon of lemon zest in the filling to brighten the flavors and complement the seafood beautifully.

For a complete meal, serve your rolls alongside a crisp green salad or some comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta to round out your dining experience. Every variation invites you to explore, making mealtime fun and flavorful!

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Shrimp Selection: Choose medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor; smaller shrimp can become overcooked and rubbery.
Lemon Zest Addition: For extra brightness in flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling—this enhances the seafood taste beautifully!
Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, making dinner time stress-free and enjoyable.
Gluten-Free Substitution: If using gluten-free lasagna noodles, ensure they’re adequately cooked and pliable to prevent breaking during assembly.
Sauce Consistency: If your roasted red pepper cream sauce seems too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Garnish Thoughtfully: Elevate presentation by garnishing with fresh basil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added pop of color and flavor!

These expert tips will ensure your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream turn out perfectly every time!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Room Temperature: If you have leftover baked rolls, they can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours but should be refrigerated after that.

Fridge: Store any remaining Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: Unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe dish without sauce; once ready to bake, thaw in the fridge and then cover with sauce before baking.

Reheating: For best results, reheat the baked rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.

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

What size shrimp should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Smaller shrimp can easily become overcooked and rubbery, which can affect the overall dish. Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined before adding them to the filling.

How long can I store leftover stuffed pasta rolls?
These Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you’ve got leftovers, enjoy them as a quick and delicious meal!

Can I freeze unbaked pasta rolls for later?
Very! Unbaked pasta rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, place them in a freezer-safe dish without the sauce. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight before covering with the roasted red pepper cream sauce and baking as directed.

Why does my cream sauce seem too thick?
If your roasted red pepper cream sauce appears too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of vegetable broth or some reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency. This will help ensure that the sauce coats your pasta rolls beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies, always check the packaging for shrimp and dairy products. For a gluten-free option, switch to gluten-free lasagna noodles, and for a lighter meal, try using dairy-free cream alternatives.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I often prep the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come back to room temperature before assembling the rolls. Preparing ahead keeps dinner time stress-free and allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

These FAQs will help you tackle any questions that come up while you prepare your amazing Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce!