Shrimp and spinach stuffed pasta rolls
Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls Recipe
Shrimp and spinach stuffed pasta rolls are a delicious and elegant dish featuring tender pasta sheets filled with a creamy mixture of shrimp, spinach, and ricotta cheese. These rolls are then baked in a rich tomato or Alfredo sauce until bubbly and golden. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, special occasions, or meal prepping.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Pasta Rolls:
8 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
2 cups marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce
½ cup mozzarella cheese, for topping
For Garnish (Optional):
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. In the same pan, saute the spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Pasta Rolls
1. Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles on a flat surface.
2. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the filling evenly over each noodle.
3. Roll each noodle tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese
1. Pour the marinara or Alfredo sauce over the pasta rolls.
2. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
1. Let the pasta rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – 2 Rolls)
Calories: ~450
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fats: ~18g
Saturated Fat: ~9g
Cholesterol: ~150mg
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~6g
Sodium: ~750mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)
Notes
Shrimp Substitution: You can replace shrimp with cooked chicken, crab, or tofu for a different flavor.
Sauce Options: Alfredo sauce adds a creamy texture, while marinara keeps it lighter.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze unbaked rolls in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
A:Yes, but you will need to soak them in hot water for 5-10 minutes before rolling to make them pliable.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and check that your sauce is gluten-free.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions to the filling.
Q: What side dishes go well with this?
A: Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.