If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality seafood pasta dish that’s easy to make at home, Shrimp Lasagna Rolls are the answer! This dish takes the rich flavors of traditional lasagna and lightens it up with juicy, garlicky shrimp, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese, all rolled into lasagna noodles and baked in a luscious homemade red sauce. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion meal.
The best part? These lasagna rolls are portion-controlled, making serving easy! Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With melty cheese, a touch of garlic, and a golden baked finish, this dish brings together the best of Italian comfort food and fresh seafood goodness. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Full Recipe:
- 1 box lasagna noodles
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic, divided
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 ½ cups homemade or store-bought red sauce
- ¼ to ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- Freshly chopped basil for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Lay flat in a single layer on paper towels.
- Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Melt 1 tablespoon butter and add half of the garlic. Season shrimp with salt and pepper and sauté for about 3 minutes until pink. Remove from pan and let cool slightly.
- Melt the remaining butter in the same pan. Add the spinach and remaining garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and sauté for 1 minute until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Chop the cooked shrimp and mix it with the spinach. In a bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, egg, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp-spinach mixture and stir to combine.
- Spread half of the red sauce in a 9×13″ baking dish. Lay a lasagna noodle flat, spread a portion of the shrimp mixture down the center, and roll up. Repeat with all noodles.
- Place the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish. Top with remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal | Servings: 8
Shrimp Lasagna Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Shrimp Lasagna Rolls are a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and fresh seafood. Unlike traditional lasagna, which is layered in a large dish, these rolls are portioned individually, making them easy to serve and perfect for gatherings. The combination of juicy shrimp, creamy ricotta cheese, tender spinach, and a flavorful homemade red sauce creates a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys comforting, home-cooked meals.
Why Shrimp Lasagna Rolls Are a Must-Try Dish
Shrimp Lasagna Rolls offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The shrimp brings a delicate sweetness and a slight brininess that complements the creamy ricotta filling. When paired with spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan, the flavors blend harmoniously, creating a dish that feels both decadent and wholesome. Unlike heavy meat-based lasagna, the shrimp lightens up the dish while still making it rich in protein and nutrients. The red sauce adds a robust tanginess that ties all the ingredients together, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
This dish also offers great versatility. You can experiment with different cheese combinations, swap the spinach for kale, or even add a hint of spice with crushed red pepper flakes. Whether you serve it as a main course for a family dinner or as a special dish for entertaining guests, these lasagna rolls will impress with their elegant presentation and delicious taste.
The Inspiration Behind This Recipe
The inspiration for Shrimp Lasagna Rolls comes from the desire to create a lighter yet equally satisfying version of traditional lasagna. While classic lasagna is often made with beef or sausage, incorporating shrimp adds a refreshing twist. Shrimp is an excellent protein option because it cooks quickly, absorbs flavors well, and provides a unique texture that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the ricotta cheese and the richness of the red sauce.
This recipe is also inspired by the concept of portion-controlled meals. Traditional lasagna can be difficult to serve evenly, but lasagna rolls eliminate that challenge. Each roll is neatly portioned, making them perfect for meal prep or for serving a crowd. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, these rolls make plating and serving effortless.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
One of the biggest advantages of Shrimp Lasagna Rolls is their combination of simplicity and sophistication. While they look impressive when served, they are surprisingly easy to prepare. Unlike layered lasagna, which can be time-consuming and messy, rolling up individual portions streamlines the process.
Another standout feature is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The homemade red sauce enhances the dish’s depth of flavor, making it far superior to store-bought alternatives. The ricotta cheese mixture, combined with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, creates a luxuriously creamy filling that complements the shrimp perfectly. Additionally, the garlic-infused spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Tips for Making the Perfect Shrimp Lasagna Rolls
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for medium to large shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save time. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While pre-packaged cheese and jarred sauce may be convenient, using fresh ricotta, hand-shredded mozzarella, and homemade red sauce will make a significant difference in flavor.
- Cook the Noodles Properly: It’s important to cook the lasagna noodles until they are just al dente. Overcooked noodles can become too soft and may fall apart when rolling. Rinsing them under cold water after boiling helps prevent them from sticking together.
- Avoid Overfilling: When adding the shrimp and ricotta mixture to the lasagna noodles, be mindful not to overfill them. Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open while baking.
- Let the Dish Rest Before Serving: Allowing the lasagna rolls to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
Pairing Suggestions for Shrimp Lasagna Rolls
To complete your meal, consider serving Shrimp Lasagna Rolls with complementary side dishes and beverages. Here are some great pairing ideas:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy and savory flavors of the lasagna rolls.
- Side Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- White Wine: A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the delicate seafood flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus adds a touch of sweetness and balances out the meal.
Why This Dish is Great for Meal Prep
Shrimp Lasagna Rolls are an excellent option for meal prep because they can be made in advance and stored easily. You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights. They also freeze well—simply store them in an airtight container and bake them straight from frozen when ready to eat. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead meal for those who like to plan their weekly menus in advance.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Shrimp Lasagna Rolls is their versatility. They can be served for a casual family dinner, a romantic date night, or even as a special holiday meal. The elegant presentation and rich flavors make them suitable for festive gatherings, while the ease of preparation ensures they remain a stress-free option for everyday cooking.
Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a heartier version, mix in some crab meat or scallops with the shrimp. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, swap out the ricotta for a plant-based cheese substitute. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Shrimp Lasagna Rolls are a delicious and sophisticated twist on traditional lasagna. Combining succulent shrimp, creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and rich red sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to portion, simple to prepare, and incredibly flavorful, these rolls make an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a mouthwatering meal that brings a touch of elegance to your table!