Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab

Seafood lasagna is the kind of dish that immediately feels special. It blends the familiar comfort of a classic lasagna with the elegance of tender seafood, creating a meal that is both cozy and indulgent. In this version, sweet shrimp and delicate crab meat are layered between sheets of pasta, rich creamy sauce, and melted cheese, resulting in a dish that feels luxurious without being intimidating to make at home.

Unlike traditional meat-based lasagna, seafood lasagna has a lighter, more refined flavor profile. The shrimp adds a subtle sweetness and a slightly firm bite, while the crab brings a delicate, almost buttery texture that melts into the sauce. Together, they create a balanced seafood filling that pairs beautifully with creamy layers and cheesy goodness. This dish is perfect for those moments when you want something hearty and comforting, yet refined enough for entertaining.

Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or special occasions. It’s impressive enough to serve at holidays or dinner parties, but still approachable enough for a weekend cooking project. Once baked, the lasagna emerges bubbling and golden, with layers that slice beautifully and flavors that deepen as they rest. Each forkful delivers pasta, seafood, and sauce in perfect harmony.

What truly sets this lasagna apart is how adaptable it is. You can keep it classic and creamy, add herbs and spices for complexity, or adjust the cheese mixture to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seafood lover looking for something new or a lasagna fan ready to explore beyond red sauce, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.

---

Core Ingredients for Making the Recipe

To prepare this comforting yet elegant Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab, you’ll need a mix of seafood, dairy, pasta, and simple aromatics. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating layers of flavor and texture.

Seafood

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces lump crab meat (fresh or pasteurized), picked over for shells

Shrimp and crab provide the heart of this lasagna. The shrimp adds structure and richness, while the crab brings sweetness and a soft, luxurious texture.

Aromatics and Base Flavor

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

These simple ingredients build a savory base that enhances the seafood without overpowering it.

Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white or black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

This creamy white sauce forms the backbone of the lasagna. It keeps the dish moist, rich, and cohesive.

Cheese

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg

The cheese mixture adds creaminess and structure, while Parmesan contributes a salty, nutty bite.

Pasta and Finishing

• 9–12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package directions
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: extra mozzarella or Parmesan for topping

---

Step-by-Step

Guide to Making the Recipe

Prepare the Seafood

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the crab meat. Be careful not to overmix so the crab pieces stay intact. Set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, followed by the cream, ensuring no lumps form.

Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Once thick and smooth, remove from heat.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and chopped parsley. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture, a portion of the seafood mixture, and another drizzle of sauce.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

---

Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

Seafood lasagna is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to customize. Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra depth, or substitute scallops for part of the shrimp for a more luxurious variation. Fresh herbs like basil, dill, or tarragon can also brighten the dish.

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly. If you enjoy bold flavors, a splash of white wine in the sauce or a hint of lemon zest can add freshness and balance.

---

How to Serve

Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is best served warm, with clean slices that reveal its beautiful layers. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

For a more refined presentation, garnish each serving with fresh herbs and a light drizzle of olive oil. This dish pairs beautifully with chilled white wine or sparkling water with citrus.

---

Tips & Variations

Choose high-quality seafood for the best flavor. Fresh or well-drained pasteurized crab works best. Avoid overcooking the shrimp before baking; they will finish cooking in the oven.

Letting the lasagna rest before slicing is crucial. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier. You can also assemble the lasagna a day ahead and bake it just before serving.

---

Final Thoughts

Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is a celebration of comfort and elegance. It brings together creamy layers, tender seafood, and hearty pasta in a way that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate dinner, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and visual appeal.

It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a favorite not just for how it tastes, but for how it brings people together around the table.

---

FAQ

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze seafood lasagna?
It freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use imitation crab?
You can, but real crab provides better flavor and texture.

What seafood works best for substitutions?
Scallops, lobster meat, or even firm white fish can be used alongside or instead of shrimp and crab.

How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Drain seafood well and allow the lasagna to rest before slicing. This ensures the layers hold together and the sauce thickens naturally.

Print