Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab Recipe

Introduction

This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that feels fancy enough for special occasions. Combining tender shrimp, sweet crab, and creamy cheeses between layers of pasta, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. If you love lasagna variations, you might also enjoy this Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe for another comforting meal.

Ingredients

This decadent seafood lasagna with shrimp and crab combines tender shellfish with a rich, creamy sauce and layers of pasta for an unforgettable comfort meal.

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lump crab meat
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Timing

Prep Time	30 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 15 minutes

Context: This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is about 20% faster to prepare than similar seafood lasagna recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Seafood

Thaw shrimp and crab if frozen, then pat dry with paper towels. Chop shrimp into bite-sized pieces and flake crab meat, checking for any shell fragments.

Tip: Use high-quality lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor in your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab.

Step 2 — Make the White Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute until golden, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth.

Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened—about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 3 — Combine Seafood and Sauce

Remove white sauce from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Gently fold in the shrimp and crab, being careful not to break up the crab too much.

The residual heat will partially cook the shrimp—they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4 — Layer the Lasagna

Spread a thin layer of the seafood sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with a single layer of no-boil lasagna noodles, breaking pieces to fit as needed.

Repeat layers, finishing with a generous amount of sauce. This ensures your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab stays moist.

Step 5 — Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan over the final layer. For extra browning, you can add a light dusting of paprika or breadcrumbs.

Tip: Let the assembled lasagna rest 10–15 minutes before baking to allow noodles to absorb some moisture.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes more until bubbly and golden brown.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and shrimp should be pink and opaque. Let stand 10 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	21g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lobster or scallops — Elevate your seafood lasagna with sweet, delicate shellfish for a luxurious twist.
• Imitation crab or canned tuna — Budget-friendly options that maintain the seafood flavor profile.
• Zucchini or eggplant slices — Replace traditional pasta sheets for a lower-carb, gluten-free version.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles — Simple swaps for added fiber or dietary needs.
• Low-fat ricotta or cottage cheese — Reduce calories while keeping the creamy texture intact.
• Dairy-free cheese alternatives — Perfect for a vegan or lactose-free seafood lasagna.
• Low-sodium broth and reduced-salt cheeses — Cut down on sodium without sacrificing savory depth.
• Spinach or kale layers — Add greens for extra nutrients and color between pasta sheets.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for a classic Italian-American feast.
• Serve alongside roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach for a lighter, elegant meal.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or a comforting Sunday dinner.
• Offer with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the seafood flavors.
• Plate individual portions using a ring mold for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, a lemon wedge, and a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

This rich Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab stands as a luxurious centerpiece, ideal for impressing guests or enjoying as a decadent family meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using watery ricotta that makes the Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab soupy. Fix: Always drain ricotta in a fine-mesh strainer for 30 minutes before assembling.
• Mistake: Overcooking the seafood, resulting in rubbery shrimp and tough crab. Fix: Gently fold in pre-cooked seafood at the end of sauce preparation, just to heat through.
• Mistake: Skipping the no-boil noodle soak, leading to a dry, undercooked texture. Fix: Briefly soak no-boil noodles in warm water for 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
• Mistake: Building layers too thickly, which prevents the center from cooking properly. Fix: Spread thin, even layers of sauce and cheese, limiting the total to 3-4 layers for best results.
• Mistake: Using a bland white sauce that doesn’t complement the delicate seafood flavors. Fix: Infuse your béchamel with a pinch of nutmeg and fresh herbs like dill or tarragon.
• Mistake: Not letting the lasagna rest after baking, causing it to fall apart when sliced. Fix: Allow your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab to set for 15-20 minutes before serving for clean cuts.
• Mistake: Over-salting the dish before tasting, since crab and cheese already contain salt. Fix: Season cautiously and do a final taste test of your sauce before assembling.
• Mistake: Using low-moisture mozzarella that doesn’t melt well into the creamy layers. Fix: Opt for fresh mozzarella or a blend with fontina for superior melt and flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw if frozen, then bake covered at 350°F until the center reaches 165°F.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is a showstopping dish perfect for special occasions. We hope you love this decadent recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes like our Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and crab in this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab?

Yes, frozen seafood works perfectly. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before using to prevent excess moisture in your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab.

What is the best cheese to use for the topping?

A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a golden, bubbly crust. This combination melts beautifully and complements the rich flavors of the Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab.

How can I prevent the lasagna from being watery?

Ensure your seafood is thoroughly dried and consider pre-cooking the noodles. Using a thicker white sauce or béchamel also helps absorb moisture in this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab.