Imagine biting into a soft, tender pasta roll bursting with juicy shrimp, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach, all nestled in a rich, savory tomato sauce. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for loved ones or just treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls deliver a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition.

This recipe brings together the delicate sweetness of shrimp, the earthy goodness of spinach, and the creamy texture of ricotta, all wrapped in pasta and baked to perfection. Follow this step-by-step guide to make this irresistible dish in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and satisfying – A delicious blend of seafood, cheese, and greens wrapped in comforting pasta.
• Easy to make – With simple steps, this dish is beginner-friendly.
• Nutritious and wholesome – Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals from shrimp and spinach.
• Perfect for gatherings – A crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Here’s everything you need to bring this delightful dish to life:

Pasta Rolls

Ingredient	Quantity
Jumbo pasta shells (or lasagna sheets)	12-14 shells
Olive oil	2 tbsp

Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)	1 lb
Fresh spinach (chopped)	2 cups
Ricotta cheese	1 cup
Parmesan cheese (grated)	½ cup
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	½ cup
Egg	1
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Salt	½ tsp
Black pepper	¼ tsp
Red pepper flakes (optional)	¼ tsp

Tomato Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity
Canned crushed tomatoes	2 cups
Tomato paste	2 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Onion (chopped)	1 small
Basil (fresh or dried)	1 tsp
Oregano	½ tsp
Sugar	½ tsp
Salt	½ tsp
Black pepper	¼ tsp
Olive oil	1 tbsp

Topping

Ingredient	Quantity
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells (or lasagna sheets) according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
4. Set aside on a clean surface.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shrimp. Sauté until shrimp turns pink (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Add the shrimp and spinach mixture. Mix well.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish.
3. Fill each pasta shell (or lasagna sheet) with the shrimp and spinach mixture.
4. Place them seam-side down in the dish.
5. Pour the remaining sauce over the pasta rolls.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
• Pair with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls

Nutrient	Benefit
Protein (Shrimp, Ricotta, Mozzarella)	Supports muscle growth and repair
Iron (Spinach)	Essential for oxygen transport in the body
Calcium (Cheese)	Strengthens bones and teeth
Antioxidants (Garlic, Tomatoes, Spinach)	Helps fight free radicals and inflammation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta – It should be al dente to prevent breaking.
2. Not draining the spinach properly – Excess moisture can make the filling watery.
3. Skipping the egg in the filling – It helps bind the ingredients together.
4. Using raw shrimp – Always cook shrimp before stuffing to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the pasta rolls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Can I freeze Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls?

Yes, freeze them unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes.

5. What other sauces can I use?

Try a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich alternative or a pesto sauce for a fresh twist.

6. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta shells or zucchini slices instead of regular pasta.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Now that you know how to make these Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls, it’s time to bring this flavorful dish to your kitchen! Whether for a family dinner or a fancy meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Try it out today and share your experience!

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