As I stirred the pot, the aroma of garlic and roasted red pepper wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a charming Italian trattoria. That’s when I realized: the comfort of homemade meals doesn’t require hours of preparation or complicated techniques. These Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce bring a touch of elegance while being incredibly adaptable for any dietary preference. Whether you’re a shrimp lover or want to swap it for chicken—or even go vegetarian—the versatility of this dish makes it perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in. Plus, with a prep time that won’t keep you from enjoying dinner with loved ones, you might just find yourself making this recipe a regular in your cooking repertoire. Ready to dive into a comforting yet sophisticated pasta experience? Let’s get cooking! Why are these pasta rolls perfect for you? Comforting yet Elegant: This recipe combines the warmth of comfort food with a sophisticated flair, making it suitable for any occasion. Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or omit meat altogether for a delightful vegetarian option, catering to all dietary needs. Quick Prep Time: With minimal prep, you can whip this up without sacrificing time with your loved ones. Flavorful Sauce: The roasted red pepper cream sauce elevates the dish, making each bite utterly irresistible. Table Appeal: The beautiful presentation is sure to impress guests, making it perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals. Easy Make-Ahead: Assemble ahead of time for stress-free entertaining, just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. For more delicious ideas, check out One Pot Pasta or Pizza Pasta Bake. Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Ingredients For the Pasta Rolls Pasta – Use any tubular pasta like cannelloni or manicotti to hold the delicious filling. Consider gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Shrimp – Fresh or cooked shrimp adds a savory flavor and delightful protein; substitute with cooked chicken for a different twist or avoid meat for a vegetarian choice. Ricotta Cheese – This creamy cheese provides body and richness; cottage cheese works as a lighter alternative if desired. Fresh Spinach – Offers vibrant color and nutrients; if fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach will do just fine. For the Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Roasted Red Peppers – These provide a smoky sweetness that forms the base of your sauce; jarred roasted peppers save prep time without losing flavor. Heavy Cream – This ingredient makes the sauce smooth and indulgent; you can swap in half-and-half for a lighter result. Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the dish’s depth of flavor; feel free to use powdered garlic if you’re in a pinch. Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory note throughout the dish; nutritional yeast can serve as a dairy-free alternative for those who need it. With these Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls ingredients in hand, you are just a few steps away from creating a comforting, elegant meal that’s both beautiful and delicious! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for creating a bubbly, golden top on your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls. While the oven warms up, you can gather the rest of your ingredients and prepare for the next steps to ensure a seamless cooking experience. Step 2: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your tubular pasta, cooking until al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and place it on a flat surface to cool. This step is crucial, as you want the pasta firm enough to hold your filling without breaking apart. Step 3: Prepare the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended, ensuring each ingredient is evenly distributed for a delicious filling. The mixture should be creamy yet thick enough to scoop. This flavorful combination will be the heart of your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls. Step 4: Stuff the Pasta Rolls Carefully take each cooked pasta tube and stuff it with a generous amount of the shrimp mixture, using a teaspoon or your hands for ease. Place the filled rolls seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully during baking while presenting a lovely display for your table. Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce In a saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Next, add the roasted red peppers and heavy cream, allowing them to simmer for 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until it is smooth and velvety, creating the perfect sauce to elevate your pasta dish. Step 6: Combine and Coat Once your sauce is blended to a creamy consistency, pour it evenly over the stuffed pasta rolls in the baking dish. Make sure each roll is generously coated to ensure a delightful flavor in every bite. Then, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for that golden, cheesy finish as it bakes. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is gently simmering and the cheese is a lovely golden brown. This brief baking period allows all the layers of the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls to meld beautifully. Step 8: Serve and Savor Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls. Gather your loved ones, serve with a crisp side salad, and savor the moment! How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Fridge: Store any leftover Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and flavorful filling. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but uncooked pasta rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date! Reheating: To reheat, thaw the pasta rolls overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep them moist. Make-Ahead: These rolls can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just bake them before serving for a fresh, flavorful meal without the fuss! What to Serve with Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance the creamy and savory goodness of your dish. Crisp Side Salad: A light mix of greens and vinaigrette balances the richness, bringing freshness to every bite. Consider adding sliced avocados for creamy texture and extra nutrients. Garlic Bread: This classic pairing enhances the Italian vibe, offering a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta rolls. Plus, who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? Steamed Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus drizzled with lemon adds a zingy brightness that perfectly complements the pasta’s rich cream sauce. It’s a colorful and nutritious addition to your table. Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of this white wine cuts through the creaminess, bringing a refreshing zest that pairs impeccably with seafood dishes like your shrimp-filled rolls. Cheers to a perfect match! Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the rich meal, providing a delightful citrus finish. It’s a sweet note that leaves everyone satisfied. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, drizzled with olive oil and herbs, add depth and flavor while contributing texture and nutrition. They’re a wonderful way to incorporate more greens! Pineapple Mint Mocktail: For a non-alcoholic twist, blend pineapple juice, mint leaves, and sparkling water for a bubbly refresher that contrasts nicely with the savory pasta. These suggestions enhance your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls, ensuring your meal is unforgettable! Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Variations Feel free to mix and match these delightful variations to create a version of the recipe that excites your palate! Chicken Option: Substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken for a hearty twist. This alternative is equally satisfying and perfect for those who prefer poultry. Vegetarian Delight: Omit shrimp entirely and add extra ricotta or cottage cheese along with more spinach. The dish remains creamy and indulgent while catering to vegetarian diets. Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the filling. This simple twist brings a burst of freshness to every bite. Creamy Ricotta Swap: For a lighter version, replace ricotta cheese with cottage cheese. This change maintains the dish’s creamy texture while reducing calories. Flavorful Additions: Stir in diced sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms into your filling for extra depth and texture. These additions can elevate the entire dish. Zesty Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for a mild kick that balances the richness of the filling. Greens Boost: Mix in other greens such as kale, chard, or arugula alongside the spinach. This is a great way to pack in more nutrients and color! Alternative Sauce: Use a tomato-based sauce instead of the creamy roasted red pepper sauce if you prefer a tangier flavor profile. It offers a completely different vibe while still being delicious! With these tasty variations, your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls can become a unique dish each time you prepare it. For additional inspiration, explore my recipe for Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta or try out the Italian Tortellini Pasta for more comforting ideas! Expert Tips for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Creamy Sauce Trick: To ensure your roasted red pepper cream sauce is perfectly smooth, blend the roasted peppers until completely pureed for a velvety texture. Al Dente Pasta: Avoid overcooking your pasta; it should be firm (al dente) so it holds the filling well and doesn’t become mushy while baking. Cheese Swap: If you’re looking for a lighter option, replace ricotta with cottage cheese in your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls without compromising on flavor. Freezing Tips: Consider preparing extra stuffed pasta rolls and freezing them for quick meals later! Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time when cooking from frozen. Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce—this elevates the flavor profile beautifully and enhances the overall dish. Make Ahead Options These Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To maintain the quality, ensure they are covered with the roasted red pepper cream sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out. If you want to prepare the filling ahead of time, it can be made up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate and stir it well before stuffing. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for a stress-free dinner that feels just as fresh and delicious as if made that day! Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe shrimp for this recipe? When choosing shrimp, look for a slightly sweet smell, indicating freshness. The flesh should be firm and translucent, without any dark spots or a strong fishy odor. Opt for shrimp that are gray or pink depending on the variety, ensuring they appear smooth and shiny. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep their creamy texture intact while maintaining the vibrant flavor of the filling. Can I freeze the stuffed pasta rolls? Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the rolls but don’t bake them yet. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep them moist. What should I do if the sauce is too thick? If your roasted red pepper cream sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to the sauce while stirring over medium heat. Blend well until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep the sauce luxurious without compromising flavor. Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies? You can easily make adjustments to cater to dairy allergies! Substitute ricotta cheese with tofu or a dairy-free ricotta option. Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for creaminess, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese to maintain that delicious umami flavor. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls a day ahead of time and keep them in the fridge. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven to bake fresh! This makes entertaining a breeze, allowing you to enjoy time with loved ones. Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls for Cozy Nights Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls are a comforting yet elegant dish, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 rollsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Rolls12 oz Tubular Pasta (cannelloni or manicotti) Consider gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.1 lb Shrimp Fresh or cooked; can substitute with chicken or omit for vegetarian.15 oz Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter alternative.4 cups Fresh Spinach Can use frozen spinach if fresh is unavailable.For the Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce2 cups Roasted Red Peppers Jarred roasted peppers save prep time.1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic or powdered garlic can be used.1 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free alternative. Equipment Baking dishMixing BowlSaucepanimmersion blender Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the tubular pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain.In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.Stuff each cooked pasta tube with the shrimp mixture and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes. Add roasted red peppers and heavy cream; simmer for 5 minutes.Puree the sauce until smooth using an immersion blender.Pour the sauce over the stuffed pasta rolls and sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.Bake for about 30 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesTo ensure the sauce is perfectly smooth, blend the roasted peppers until completely pureed. Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be firm to hold the filling well. You can prepare extra stuffed rolls and freeze them for quick meals later. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
