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This decadent seafood lasagna transforms ordinary pasta night into a restaurant-worthy experience with layers of succulent shrimp, sweet crab meat, and three cheeses all bound together in creamy Alfredo sauce.
I first made this seafood lasagna for my anniversary dinner at home when restaurants were closed during lockdown. What started as a necessity has become our most requested special occasion meal, with my husband declaring it better than any restaurant version he's ever had.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles these create the sturdy base for all those delicious layers
- Shrimp use large or jumbo size for the best texture and flavor
- Crab meat lump crab provides the sweetest flavor but imitation works in a pinch
- Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and structure to each layer
- Mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible stretchy cheese pull
- Parmesan cheese delivers a salty nutty dimension
- Alfredo sauce forms the luxurious creamy base that ties everything together
- Heavy cream helps loosen the cheese mixture for easier spreading
- Garlic adds aromatic depth that complements seafood perfectly
- Olive oil for sautéing the seafood and garlic
- Fresh parsley brightens the rich flavors with herbal notes
- Salt and pepper for seasoning to taste
- Red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances seafood
- Breadcrumbs create a delightful textural contrast on top
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare The Noodles
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. This typically takes 8 to 9 minutes. Drain them carefully and lay them flat on parchment paper or a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking. Properly cooked noodles should be pliable but still firm enough to handle without tearing.
- Prepare The Seafood Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add minced garlic and cook for exactly one minute until fragrant but not browned as burned garlic becomes bitter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes total just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery so watch them carefully. Gently fold in the crab meat and season with salt pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook just 2 to 3 minutes more to warm the crab through without breaking it up too much.
- Create The Cheese Mixture
- In a large bowl combine ricotta one cup of mozzarella half cup of Parmesan heavy cream and chopped parsley. Stir until completely incorporated and smooth. This mixture should be spreadable but not runny. If it seems too thick add a splash more cream. This cheese layer is the backbone of the lasagna providing creamy richness between each layer.
- Assemble The Lasagna
- Start by spreading about half cup of Alfredo sauce evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and burning. Arrange noodles in a single layer overlapping slightly if needed. Spread one third of your cheese mixture across the noodles using an offset spatula for even distribution. Distribute one third of the seafood mixture evenly over the cheese. Drizzle with more Alfredo sauce about one cup. Repeat this precise layering process two more times finishing with a layer of noodles topped with the remaining Alfredo sauce.
- Add The Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top ensuring complete coverage. Scatter breadcrumbs across the surface for that wonderful textural contrast when baked. Cover tightly with foil being careful not to let it touch the cheese to prevent sticking.
- Bake To Perfection
- Bake covered at 375°F for exactly 25 minutes which allows all the flavors to meld together. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top becomes golden brown with bubbling edges. This final uncovered bake creates that irresistible crispy cheesy top layer.
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The crab meat truly elevates this dish from good to extraordinary. I learned to splurge on lump crab meat rather than claw meat when making this for special occasions. The sweet delicate flavor and tender texture of lump crab creates magical bites throughout the lasagna that my family treasures in every serving.
Make Ahead Instructions
This seafood lasagna is perfect for entertaining because you can assemble it completely up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the assembled uncooked lasagna tightly with plastic wrap then foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off then follow the baking instructions. You might need to add an extra 10 minutes of covered baking time if starting from cold.
Freezing Options
While most lasagnas freeze beautifully seafood requires special consideration. For best results freeze this lasagna before baking. Assemble completely then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the regular instructions adding about 15 minutes to the covered baking time. The texture of the seafood may change slightly but the flavor remains excellent.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce. For a special occasion serve with a chilled glass of unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio which complements the seafood beautifully without overpowering it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this lasagna?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply skip the sautéing step and add them directly to the layers. However, fresh shrimp enhances the flavor and texture better.
- → What can I substitute for crab meat?
Crab meat can be substituted with lobster, scallops, or even a firm fish like cod. You can also use imitation crab for a budget-friendly option.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure that your Alfredo sauce and breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free.
- → Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking or increase the baking time slightly if baking directly from the fridge.
- → What side dishes pair well with the lasagna?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes to complement the rich flavors of the seafood lasagna.