When it comes to comfort food, lasagna is a timeless classic. But if you’re craving something more indulgent and elegant, this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab is the perfect dish. Creamy, savory, and layered with tender pasta, succulent shrimp, and sweet crabmeat, this lasagna delivers a luxurious twist that’s ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or a cozy weekend meal.
Unlike traditional lasagna with tomato-based sauces, this version is crafted with a velvety white sauce, making it rich yet surprisingly balanced. The blend of seafood and creamy cheeses creates a dish that feels restaurant-worthy but can be made in your own kitchen with ease.
Ingredients
Serves 8–10
For the Filling:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 pound lump crabmeat (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the White Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Resting time: 15 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in chopped shrimp and cook until just pink (about 3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, crabmeat, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly blended.
Step 2: Make the White Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer noodles, seafood filling, sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with noodles, sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Cover dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread for the perfect side.
- A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the seafood flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 29 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 11 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 780 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp and crab provide lean, high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Ricotta and mozzarella add calcium for bone health.
- Using a white sauce instead of heavy tomato sauce creates a creamier dish while still offering balanced nutrition.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh seafood when possible for the best flavor.
- If using canned crabmeat, drain thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Cook noodles slightly underdone to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Allow lasagna to rest before slicing to help layers set properly.
This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab is a decadent take on a family favorite, perfect for those who want to bring gourmet flair to their dinner table. The creamy layers of cheese, tender seafood, and delicate white sauce create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Serve it for special occasions, or simply treat yourself to a luxurious meal at home — either way, it’s a recipe that will leave a lasting impression.