Some nights, I crave something cozy but still crave-worthy—like a warm hug in a casserole dish. That’s exactly what these Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls deliver. They’re creamy, savory, and surprisingly easy, even on a weeknight when everything feels rushed.
If you’ve got picky eaters, seafood skeptics, or just need an easy shrimp dinner idea that feels a little fancy—this one’s for you. I’ve made it for quiet Tuesday nights and also dressed it up for guests. Either way, it never disappoints.
Let’s just say, these rolls are my go-to when I need comfort food with a splash of wow.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls
If you’re juggling a packed schedule but still want a homemade meal that feels special, these Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls are it. They come together faster than you’d think, taste like something from a cozy Italian bistro, and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
This baked stuffed pasta recipe is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—basically, cheesy seafood comfort food that hugs your soul after a long day.
Ingredients Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls
Let’s talk ingredients—because every flavor-packed bite of these Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls starts with the good stuff. Don’t worry, the full measurements are listed at the bottom of this post and ready for printing when you’re meal-planning or grocery-list making.
- Lasagna noodles: Use regular or oven-ready, but make sure they’re cooked just al dente so they roll without tearing.
- Olive oil: A drizzle helps sauté the shrimp to tender perfection. You can swap in butter for extra richness.
- Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and chopped. I like using medium shrimp, but any size will do—fresh or frozen (thawed first).
- Spinach: Fresh works great, but frozen spinach is a time-saver. Just be sure to squeeze out the water!
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it’s the smooth base of the filling. Cottage cheese can be used in a pinch.
- Cream cheese: Adds richness and helps bind everything together. It melts into the filling like a dream.
- Egg: Keeps the filling from falling apart and adds a little fluff to the mix.
- Garlic powder: A subtle hit of flavor that blends beautifully with the shrimp and cheese.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that makes the dish taste like it came straight from Nonna’s kitchen.
- Salt & pepper: Don’t skip these! They bring all the flavors together with just the right balance.
- Marinara sauce: A smooth tomato base that cradles the rolls in savory goodness. Use your favorite jarred brand or homemade.
- Shredded mozzarella: Melts into a gooey, golden topping. Add more if you’re feeling extra cheesy (I often do!).
- Fresh parsley: Totally optional, but a sprinkle on top adds color and a hint of freshness.
These ingredients come together in the most satisfying way—layered, rolled, and baked into the ultimate Italian-inspired shrimp casserole.
How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls
Let me walk you through how I bring these Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls to life in my kitchen. It’s easier than it looks—and trust me, I’ve had my fair share of mid-week meltdowns. This isn’t one of those recipes. Each step builds flavor, and before you know it, you’ve got a bubbling, cheesy seafood comfort food miracle coming out of the oven.
Step 1 – Sauté the Shrimp
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped shrimp and sauté for about 2–3 minutes, just until they turn that perfect pink. Don’t overcook—they’ll finish in the oven later. If you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, cut sautéing time in half.
Step 2 – Add and Wilt the Spinach
Right in the same pan, add your fresh spinach. It’ll wilt quickly—about a minute or two is all it takes. If using frozen spinach, stir in the thawed, dried version until it’s evenly warmed through. This adds a pop of color and a healthy twist, just like in a good spinach and ricotta pasta bake.
Step 3 – Make the Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, cream cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The combo turns creamy and aromatic—a dreamy base for our filling. This mixture smells like a cozy weekend in Tuscany, I swear.
Step 4 – Mix in Shrimp and Spinach
Now, fold the cooled shrimp and spinach into that cheesy mixture. Stir gently so everything holds together. You’ll want every bite to be loaded with shrimp, greens, and that luscious cheese blend—it’s what makes this a creamy seafood lasagna roll dream come true.
Step 5 – Fill and Roll the Lasagna Noodles
Lay out your cooked lasagna noodles flat on a clean surface. Spoon the filling evenly across each one. Don’t overdo it—just enough to roll them snug. Then roll each noodle up like a little pasta burrito. My kids love helping with this part!
Step 6 – Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of your baking dish. Place the pasta rolls seam-side down on top. Spoon more marinara over the rolls until they’re cozily tucked in. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella all over like confetti—it’s a baked stuffed pasta recipe must.
Step 7 – Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into a 375°F oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The cheese will melt into golden bliss, and the sauce will bubble around the edges. When your kitchen smells like an Italian grandma’s hug, you’re almost there.
Step 8 – Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley for a splash of color and extra freshness. If I have extra shrimp, I’ll nestle a few on top for presentation. Serve hot, and don’t forget some crusty garlic bread on the side—because every Italian-inspired shrimp casserole needs a trusty sidekick.
Tips for Success
- Cook lasagna noodles just to al dente—they’ll soften more in the oven.
- Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid watery filling.
- Let the shrimp and spinach cool slightly before mixing with the cheese.
- Use a piping bag or spoon to fill noodles easily without tearing them.
- Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly during baking.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: For sautéing the shrimp and wilting the spinach. A nonstick pan works great here.
- Mixing bowls: One medium and one large—perfect for prepping the filling and combining ingredients.
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish holds all the rolls snugly. Glass or ceramic both work.
- Spatula or spoon: For stirring and spreading the filling with ease.
- Aluminum foil: Helps prevent the cheese from browning too fast while baking.
Variations
- Swap the shrimp: Try crab meat, scallops, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a fun twist on the filling.
- Add more veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini sautéed with the spinach add texture and boost nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the cheese mix for a kick of heat.
- Go dairy-free: Use plant-based cream cheese and ricotta alternatives for a creamy seafood lasagna roll without the lactose.
- Try a white sauce: Replace marinara with Alfredo or a garlic cream sauce for a richer, more indulgent version.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles—just make sure they hold together well when cooked.
- Mini roll-ups: Use smaller noodles like manicotti or cannelloni for bite-sized baked stuffed pasta recipes perfect for parties.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for balance and brightness.
- Serve alongside warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up that marinara goodness.
- A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon complements the seafood beautifully.
- Garnish each plate with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for a fresh, restaurant-style finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! I often prep them the night before and keep them chilled in the fridge. Just assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them—uncooked or baked—making this a perfect easy shrimp dinner idea for busy weeks. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: I like to reheat my Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep them from drying out. About 15–20 minutes usually does the trick. Microwave works too—just add a splash of water and cover with a damp paper towel. Either way, they stay just as creamy and comforting the next day.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp works beautifully here. Just be sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before tossing into the pan. I use frozen shrimp all the time—it’s a lifesaver for last-minute meals. It still delivers that sweet, tender bite that makes these cheesy seafood comfort food rolls shine.
Q: How do these compare to creamy seafood lasagna rolls?
A: These Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls have a similar comforting vibe to creamy seafood lasagna rolls, but they’re easier to portion and serve. Instead of layering, you roll the filling inside each noodle—it’s less fussy but just as indulgent. Plus, they bake up faster, making them weeknight-friendly.
Q: Can I substitute the ricotta or cream cheese?
A: You sure can! If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese is a great swap—just blend it a bit for a smoother texture. For cream cheese, try mascarpone or even a thick Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. These swaps still give that luscious filling we love in a baked stuffed pasta recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about pulling a bubbling tray of Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls from the oven. The aroma alone feels like a warm embrace after a long day. This dish isn’t just dinner—it’s a moment to slow down, gather around, and savor something truly comforting. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing guests, or treating yourself, it hits all the right notes—rich, creamy, and full of love. I’ve made these rolls more times than I can count, and they never fail to bring smiles. Here’s to easy wins and delicious bites, one cheesy seafood comfort food roll at a time.
PrintShrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls Made Easy and Delicious
Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Rolls are a creamy and savory Italian-inspired dish featuring tender lasagna noodles filled with a rich shrimp, spinach, and cheese mixture, baked to golden perfection in marinara sauce. It’s an easy shrimp dinner idea perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Lactose
Ingredients
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined & chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup thawed frozen, squeezed dry)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté shrimp in olive oil over medium heat until pink and tender, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fold the shrimp and spinach mixture into the cheese mixture to create the filling.
- Lay cooked lasagna noodles flat and spread filling evenly over each.
- Roll each noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish over a layer of marinara sauce.
- Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rolls and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional shrimp if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can prepare the rolls ahead and refrigerate or freeze before baking.
- Substitute fresh spinach with frozen if needed – just ensure it’s well-drained.
- Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time, but reduce sautéing time accordingly.
- Great served with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 190mg

