Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls in Creamy Sauce

Name: Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls in Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Lasagna noodles (These provide structure.); 1 lb Medium shrimp (Peeled and deveined.); 2 cups Fresh baby spinach (Chopped.); 15 oz Ricotta cheese (Creamy cheese filling.); 8 oz Cream cheese (Softened.); 1 cup Mozzarella cheese (Shredded for filling.); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated.); 1 large Egg (Used as a binder.); 1 tsp Italian seasoning (Aromatic blend.); 1 tsp Smoked paprika (Adds depth.); 1 tsp Garlic powder (Essential seasoning.); ½ tsp Salt (Essential seasoning.); ½ tsp Black pepper (Essential seasoning.); 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice (Brightens the filling.); ¼ cup Fresh parsley (Finely chopped.); 2 cups Roasted red bell peppers (Forms the sauce base.); 2 tbsp Unsalted butter (Adds richness.); 2 tbsp All-purpose flour (To thicken the sauce.); 1 cup Heavy whipping cream (Creates luxurious texture.); 1 cup Whole milk (Combines with cream.); ½ cup Chicken broth (Low sodium.); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (For sauce richness.); 1 cup Mozzarella cheese (Shredded for topping.); ¼ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes (Optional for heat.)

by Melany Johnson on November 10, 2026 0

Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls in Creamy Sauce

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In the stillness of the kitchen, the scent of roasted red bell peppers entwined with garlic hangs in the air, drawing me closer to the heart of a culinary delight. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with creamy ricotta and succulent shrimp enveloped in tender lasagna noodles. Not only is it a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table, but it’s also a delightful way to elevate your weeknight cooking.

With just 30 minutes of prep time, these pasta rolls are both an impressive crowd-pleaser and a cozy indulgence that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, the creamy, vibrant sauce brings everything together in a delicious hug that promises warmth and satisfaction. As you prepare this dish, you'll find the process just as rewarding as the final bite. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why you'll keep making it

Flavor Explosion: The Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream truly burst with flavor, perfectly marrying the creamy ricotta and fresh spinach with the sweetness of shrimp. The roasted red pepper sauce adds a vibrant touch that’ll leave you savoring every bite.

Time-Saver: Busy weeknights are no match for this dish! With just 30 minutes of prep time, you'll wow your family and guests alike without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep; simply store the rolls in the fridge, and you’ve got leftovers that taste just as good the next day. Dive into this recipe, and you'll quickly discover why it becomes a staple in your culinary rotation!

Ingredient breakdown

• For the Pasta Rolls
• Lasagna noodles – These are the canvas for your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream, providing structure and heartiness to the dish.
• Medium shrimp – Peeled and deveined, they add a tender and juicy seafood element that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Fresh baby spinach – Chopped, it adds a lovely hint of freshness while integrating essential nutrients, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese is the star filling, bringing a luscious texture and mild flavor that complements other ingredients.
• Cream cheese – Softened, it helps create a rich, creamy filling that melds perfectly with the ricotta.
• Mozzarella cheese – Shredded for filling, this cheese adds gooeyness, harmonizing with the pasta rolls beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for filling, it introduces a touch of sharpness that elevates the entire profile.
• Egg – One large egg is used as a binder, ensuring your filling holds together while baking.
• Italian seasoning – A teaspoon of this aromatic blend enriches the filling, offering a hint of herbal notes.
• Smoked paprika – This ingredient adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the shrimp, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper – Essential seasonings, tailoring the taste to your preference with fragrant and savory notes.
• Fresh lemon juice – A tablespoon brightens the filling, providing a zesty contrast to the richness of the cheeses.
• Fresh parsley – Finely chopped, it brings a pop of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.

• For the Red Pepper Cream Sauce
• Roasted red bell peppers – These sweet and smoky peppers form the base of your sauce, delivering a vibrant color and flavor.
• Unsalted butter – Used for the sauce, it adds a rich, velvety smoothness.
• All-purpose flour – A couple of tablespoons is used to thicken the sauce, providing a creamy consistency that clings to the rolls.
• Heavy whipping cream and whole milk – Combining these creates a luxurious, creamy texture that envelopes the pasta rolls in a comforting embrace.
• Chicken broth – Low sodium, it enhances the sauce's overall flavor without overpowering the other components.
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the sauce, it further amplifies the richness and depth of flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese – Shredded for topping, it adds a delightful, gooey finish that melts beautifully as it bakes.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, but a quarter teaspoon adds a kick for those who love a bit of heat.

Now that you have the ingredients and their purposes in mind, let’s move on to the preparation!

Making it, step by step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch rectangular baking dish with butter. This greasing ensures your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream won't stick, giving you a beautiful presentation when served.

Step 2: Boil the Noodles
Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat before adding the lasagna noodles. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until they're tender yet still firm.

Step 3: Drain and Cool the Noodles
After cooking, carefully drain the noodles using a colander. Rinse them briefly under cool water to halt the cooking process and gently lay them flat on a clean baking sheet to avoid sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the Shrimp
Take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Chop the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces and transfer to a medium mixing bowl. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and half of the salt and pepper, tossing gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 6: Sauté the Vegetables
Lower the skillet heat to medium-low and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt completely. Stir in the finely chopped yellow onion, cooking for about 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, then incorporate the chopped baby spinach until wilted.

Step 7: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan, a large egg, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, the remaining salt, pepper, lemon juice, and parsley. Fold the cooled shrimp and sautéed spinach mixture into this creamy blend until well combined.

Step 8: Assemble the Rolls
Lay out a cooked lasagna noodle and place a generous portion of the shrimp and spinach filling on one end. Roll it up tightly and place it seam side down in the greased baking dish. Repeat this process until all noodles and filling are used up, creating your beautiful pasta rolls.

Step 9: Prepare the Red Pepper Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux, cooking for about a minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth, stirring until thickened.

Step 10: Finish the Sauce
Add ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan and, if desired, crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, then pour it evenly over the assembled pasta rolls in the baking dish.

Step 11: Bake the Pasta Rolls
Top the dish with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You'll know it's ready once the edges start to slightly crisp up and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream while warm, allowing the creamy filling and vibrant sauce to shine.

Storing and reheating

Fridge: Store leftover Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavor intact while maintaining the creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled pasta rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months!

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from browning too much.

Ready for Creamy Indulgence: If reheating frozen rolls directly from the freezer, allow an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time, checking that they’re warmed all the way through.

Serving and pairing ideas

What to Serve with Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream?

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing these elegant pasta rolls with delightful accompaniments that enhance their creamy and vibrant flavor profile.

Garlic Bread: The perfect side, its crunchy texture and garlic aroma provide a delightful contrast to your creamy rolls.
Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad that offers a zesty lift, balancing the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully. The crunchy croutons add a delightful crumb.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon butter brings freshness to the meal, while its earthy notes enhance the shrimp's sweetness.
White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the seafood, enhancing the dish's flavors while adding a sophisticated touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medleys of seasonal vegetables add earthy undertones, creating a visually stunning and healthful addition to your table.
Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, its citrus notes cleanse the palate, making it the perfect sweet ending to this creamy seafood dish.

With these pairings, your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream will shine even brighter, creating a memorable meal for friends and family!

Make ahead

Preparing Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream in advance is a fantastic way to streamline your weeknight meals! You can easily make the filling and assemble the rolls up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For maximum flavor, I recommend preparing the red pepper cream sauce up to 3 days in advance, keeping it in a sealed container as well. When ready to serve, all you need to do is pour the sauce over the assembled rolls, sprinkle with cheese, and bake directly from the fridge—just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This approach ensures that your dish remains just as delicious, while saving you precious time on busy evenings!

Easy variations

Feel free to personalize your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream, making them your own through delightful twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy without compromising on flavor.
Seafood Swap: Swap shrimp for cooked crab or scallops for a different kind of ocean delight that's equally luxurious. If you're a adventurous cook, trying lobster adds a decadent twist!
Cheese Variety: Substitute feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. The creaminess will still shine through, while the taste offers a kick of excitement.
Veggie-Loaded: Add finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini in place of some of the spinach for an extra layer of texture and nutrients. You can combine this with roasted red bell peppers for further flavor enhancement.
Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta and cream cheese with cashew cream, and use almond milk for the sauce to create a rich yet dairy-free delight. Pair it with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for cheesiness!
Spice It Up: Boost the heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the filling or sauce. For a smokier hit, try using smoked sea salt instead of regular salt.
Herb Upgrade: Fresh dill or basil can brighten your rolls with fragrant notes. Just fold into the filling for a herbaceous twist that complements the seafood beautifully.
Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble the rolls without cooking them, then freeze. When you're ready, simply bake from frozen, adjusting the time as needed for a quick and satisfying meal.

With these options, your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream will transform to match any craving or dietary need, creating a dish that everyone can fall in love with!

FAQ

How do I choose the right shrimp for this dish?
Absolutely! Look for medium shrimp that are labeled as "peeled and deveined" for convenience. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, ocean-like scent and be firm to the touch with a translucent appearance. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy smell or dark spots, as these can indicate spoilage.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To store your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture and rich flavors. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze the pasta rolls? If so, how?
Definitely! Assemble the rolls and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to label them! These rolls can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

What should I do if the filling is too runny?
If you find that your filling is too runny, try adding a bit more ricotta or cream cheese to thicken it up. Additionally, you can mix in some breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture. Don't hesitate to taste and adjust the seasonings, too! You want a filling that holds together beautifully when rolled.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you're serving anyone with allergies, be aware that this recipe contains shellfish, dairy, and gluten (from the lasagna noodles). For a gluten-free version, you can opt for gluten-free lasagna noodles. If someone is lactose intolerant, consider using dairy-free cheese substitutes or even a vegan ricotta recipe made from blended tofu and nutritional yeast.

How do I know when my pasta rolls are perfectly baked?
You'll know your Shrimp Seafood and Spinach Pasta Rolls with Red Pepper Cream are perfectly baked when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and the edges of the sauce are just starting to crisp. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully!