Name: Delicious Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls to Impress
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells (Gluten-free options available.); 1 pound Large Shrimp (Can substitute with scallops or a vegetarian option.); 2 cups Fresh Spinach (Frozen spinach is fine if squeezed out well.); 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese (Cottage cheese can be used as well.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded provolone or cheese blend can be used.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can be a vegan alternative.); 2 cloves Garlic (Can substitute with garlic powder.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can replace with butter or vegetable oil.); 1 cup Roasted Red Peppers (Jarred ones save time.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative.); to taste Salt (Essential for balancing flavors.); to taste Pepper (Essential for balancing flavors.); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (Parsley can be used as an alternative.)

The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil always brings me back to that cozy kitchen where my culinary journey began. Today, I’m excited to share my Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream, a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. Not only is this recipe a showstopper for dinner parties, but it’s also wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize the filling to suit any dietary need. With a prep time that won’t keep you sweating in the kitchen, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your friends. Trust me, these vibrant pasta rolls are not just a feast for the eyes, but also deliver a comforting blend of flavors that you’ll want to revisit time and again. Ready to discover how to elevate your pasta night? Let’s dive in!

Why Will You Love This Recipe?

Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite fillings, whether it’s seafood, veggies, or cheeses, making it perfect for any dietary preferences.

Easy to Prepare: The straightforward instructions mean that even novice cooks will feel like pros after mastering this dish.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Each bite combines succulent shrimp and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a rich roasted red pepper cream sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Make Ahead Option: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can assemble in advance and bake when you’re ready, making dinner stress-free.

Visual Appeal: These vibrant pasta rolls are not just delicious but also look stunning on any dinner table, making them ideal for gatherings.

If you want more pasta inspiration, check out my easy-to-make Spinach Tomato Pasta or the flavorful Pepper Chicken Pasta.

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Ingredients

• To make your delicious Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

Jumbo Pasta Shells – These large shells are perfect for holding a generous serving of filling; gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions.

For the Filling

Large Shrimp – The star of the dish, providing delightful flavor; feel free to substitute with scallops or a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms.
Fresh Spinach – Adds a burst of color and nutrition; frozen spinach is fine if squeezed out well.
Ricotta Cheese – For creamy texture that binds the filling together; cottage cheese can also work in a pinch.
Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey goodness; shredded provolone or any cheese blend can be used for a twist.
Parmesan Cheese – Elevates umami flavors; nutritional yeast can be a great vegan alternative for a cheesy taste.

For the Sauce

Garlic – Always a crowd favorite for an aromatic base; substitute garlic powder if you’re short on fresh cloves.
Olive Oil – Adds a rich flavor while sautéing; can replace with butter or vegetable oil if needed.
Roasted Red Peppers – Introduces a sweet and smoky flavor to the sauce; using jarred ones saves time.
Heavy Cream – Gives the sauce its luxurious richness; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to suit your taste.

For Garnish

Fresh Basil (optional) – A fragrant touch to elevate the dish; parsley works too if basil isn’t available.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Step 1: Prep the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. When done, drain the shells and spread them on a baking sheet to cool, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Cook Shrimp
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Next, toss in the shrimp and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let them cool for a few minutes before chopping into smaller pieces.

Step 3: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan. Stir until everything is well incorporated and season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy but firm enough to hold its shape when stuffed into the shells.

Step 4: Stuff Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the cooled jumbo pasta shells and gently fill each one with the shrimp and spinach filling, using a spoon or a piping bag for ease. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are arranged snugly without overlapping, creating a lovely display.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the roasted red peppers and heavy cream. Stir continuously until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, and blend until smooth if desired. This creamy roasted red pepper sauce will add a luxurious touch to your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the stuffed pasta rolls in the baking dish. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. In the last 10 minutes of baking, uncover the dish to allow the tops to become golden and bubbly, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, let the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both comforting and delightful.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save precious time while still serving a homemade meal! You can assemble the dish (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the pasta shells and the filling as directed, then stuff the shells and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure the shells are properly sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the assembled rolls directly from the fridge by adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. You’ll get restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Uncooked Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for storage.

Reheating (Cooked): To reheat, thaw the rolls in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assembled but unbaked rolls can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you choose to bake them from the fridge.

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh, high-quality shrimp and vegetables. This discretion enhances the flavors of your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls significantly.
Cook Pasta Wisely: Don’t overcook the jumbo shells! They should be al dente, as they’ll continue to cook while baking.
Avoid Tearing: Handle the pasta shells gently when filling them. Using a spoon or piping bag can help preserve their shape.
Taste Before Baking: Adjust the seasoning in the filling before it goes into the shells. This ensures that every bite of the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls is flavorful.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the dish in advance and cover it tightly; it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner prep a breeze!

What to Serve with Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Pairing a delightful side or drink enhances your dining experience and perfectly complements the comforting richness of your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls.

Garlic Bread: The warm, toasted flavors of garlic bread bring a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the pasta rolls beautifully.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a lovely texture and a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Lemon Butter Sauce: Drizzling a light lemon butter sauce over the rolls brightens each bite, enhancing the flavors of shrimp and spinach.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables offers a sweet and savory contrast, adding depth and color to the meal.
Savory Risotto: Creamy risotto with Parmesan compliments the pasta’s flavor while creating a luxurious and indulgent dining experience.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the seafood flavors, with its crisp acidity cutting through the richness of the cream sauce.
Tiramisu: Finish the meal with a light and airy tiramisu; its coffee and chocolate notes provide a perfect sweet ending to your dinner.
Herbed Quinoa: A fragrant quinoa dish seasoned with fresh herbs can provide a nutritious side that complements the rich pasta rolls perfectly.
Side of Marinara: For those who love a bit of extra sauce, a side of marinara can offer a delightful dip for the pasta rolls.

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Variations

Feel free to let your creativity soar and customize these stuffed pasta rolls to fit your taste buds!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the shrimp with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes for a hearty, meat-free option.
Zesty Pesto Boost: Swap the roasted red pepper cream sauce for a vibrant basil pesto for a fresh and herby twist. It adds a lovely bright flavor that dances on the palate!
Cheesy Extra: Add cream cheese or goat cheese to your filling for a richer, more indulgent taste. This creamy addition elevates the texture to heavenly levels.
Spice It Up: Introduce some heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños into the filling or sauce. This fiery kick will awaken your senses!
Herb-Infused Filling: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or tarragon into the filling for an aromatic experience. It transforms the dish into a fragrant feast perfect for spring gatherings.
Seafood Variety: Instead of shrimp, try scallops or even crab meat for a luxurious seafood variation. Pair them with a splash of lemon juice for brightness!
Creamy Dream: Use a combination of heavy cream and ricotta for an extra creamy sauce, or go for a dairy-free cream alternative to accommodate various dietary needs.
Nutty Crunch: Top your baked rolls with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or almonds before serving for added texture and nutty flavor. It takes the dish to the next level!

If you’re intrigued by pasta variations, be sure to explore my Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells or indulge in these delightful Cheesecake Stuffed Apples.

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach can be a time-saver; just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before mixing it into your filling. This helps prevent a watery texture in your stuffed pasta rolls.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep any leftover Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they cool completely before storing to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze the assembled pasta rolls?
Yes, uncooked Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen!

What should I do if the pasta shells tear while filling?
If your pasta shells happen to tear, don’t worry! Simply use the filling as a delicious topping for a pasta bake. Arrange the broken shell pieces in a baking dish, cover with sauce, sprinkle some cheese, and bake until bubbly. It’s a comforting, accidental twist!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can! Assemble the stuffed pasta rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Cover them tightly and refrigerate; when ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since they’ll be cold from the fridge.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This recipe contains shrimp, dairy, and gluten. For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini, and for a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free pasta shells. Be mindful of guest allergies, and adjust as needed!