Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls
There is something deeply comforting about a dish that brings together tender pasta, creamy filling, and a warm bubbling sauce. Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls offer exactly that experience. This dish feels elegant yet remains easy enough for a weeknight dinner. It combines juicy shrimp, wilted spinach, and a rich cheese mixture tucked neatly into pasta rolls and baked until golden and irresistibly creamy. The flavors come together in a balanced way, creating a meal that satisfies without being heavy.
Stuffed pasta dishes often make an impression, and this one delivers both visual appeal and flavor. Rolled pasta filled with shrimp and spinach creates beautiful spirals that slice cleanly, making every serving look special. Whether you prepare it for family dinner or set it on a table for guests, the casserole-style baking and impressive presentation make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish made right at home.
Ingredients
12 to 14 lasagna noodles or large pasta sheets suitable for rolling
1 pound cooked or raw shrimp, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach, lightly sautéed
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Italian seasoning to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparing the Filling
The heart of this dish is the creamy shrimp and spinach mixture. Start by heating olive oil in a pan and sautéing the garlic until fragrant. Add the spinach and let it wilt gently. If you are using raw shrimp, add them to the pan to cook through until pink. If you have pre-cooked shrimp, warm them briefly so they absorb the garlic flavor. Once the spinach is wilted and the shrimp is cooked, remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a portion of the Parmesan and mozzarella. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Fold in the shrimp and spinach mixture. The filling should be thick, creamy, and spoonable. If you want a richer texture, add an extra spoonful of heavy cream or a bit more ricotta.
Preparing the Pasta
Use lasagna noodles or pasta sheets that can be rolled without tearing. Boil them until they are just tender. Overcooking will make them too soft and difficult to roll, so keep them slightly firm. Lay the cooked noodles out flat on parchment paper or a baking sheet. This helps prevent them from sticking together.
Spread the creamy filling along the length of each noodle. Roll gently from one end to the other. Place the rolls seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish. They should fit snugly but not be tightly packed, allowing the sauce to flow between them during baking.
Adding the Sauce
You can choose between marinara, Alfredo, or a blend of both. A layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish prevents sticking and infuses the pasta with moisture. After placing the rolls in the dish, pour the remaining sauce over the top. For a luxurious finish, drizzle heavy cream over everything and add extra mozzarella and Parmesan. The cheeses melt into the sauce, creating a silky texture as the dish bakes.
Baking and Serving
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until the cheese melts and begins to brown slightly on top. The sauce should bubble gently around the edges, and the rolls will be warmed through.
Allow the pasta rolls to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes the rolls easier to lift from the dish. Serve them with a spoonful of sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. A light salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with this dish.
Why This Dish Works
The combination of shrimp, spinach, and cheese creates a delicate yet satisfying flavor. The shrimp adds heartiness without being heavy. Spinach brings freshness and a mild earthiness that balances the creaminess. The cheeses hold everything together, providing richness while allowing the other ingredients to shine.
The pasta rolls create an attractive presentation that elevates a simple casserole into something special. They slice neatly and display the spirals of filling, making the dish ideal for gatherings or holidays. At the same time, the preparation remains simple enough for a casual weeknight dinner.
Variations and Tips
If you want to change things up, you can substitute crab, chicken, or a mixture of seafood. Adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes introduces a different flavor dimension. For a lighter version, replace part of the ricotta with cottage cheese or reduce the amount of heavy cream.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness to the filling. A squeeze of lemon over the finished rolls can also lift the flavors, especially when seafood is involved.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave. The sauce prevents the rolls from drying out, so the dish remains creamy even the next day.
Conclusion
Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls are a delightful blend of flavor, comfort, and elegance. They take familiar ingredients and transform them into a dish that feels both homey and special. The creamy filling, tender pasta, and bubbling cheese create a satisfying meal that brings warmth to the table. Whether you prepare it for a quiet evening or serve it to guests, this dish is a dependable favorite that leaves everyone satisfied.