Seafood Lasagna Shrimp Crab

This luscious seafood lasagna layers sweet shrimp and crab with creamy ricotta, nutty Parmesan, and a silky béchamel sauce. It is my go-to when I want to impress dinner guests or just bring a taste of the coast to my kitchen table.

The first time I made this was for a holiday potluck when I wanted something a little fancier than classic lasagna. It disappeared in minutes and I have been asked to bring it again and again ever since.

Ingredients

• Cooked shrimp: gives the lasagna a sweet ocean flavor and is easy to prepare ahead
• Lump crab meat: adds delicate seafood taste and elevates the dish choose real crab for the best result but quality imitation works in a pinch
• Ricotta cheese: brings a creamy texture and rich base for the filling always look for whole milk ricotta with minimal ingredients
• Egg: acts as a binder to hold the filling together opt for fresh eggs from a reliable source
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty nutty depth always grate fresh if you can
• Garlic powder and onion powder: infuse the mixture with savory flavor without overpowering the seafood
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning use kosher salt and fresh ground pepper if possible
• Chopped parsley: gives freshness and color fresh parsley livens up the finished dish
• Butter: forms the base of the white sauce for richness use unsalted to control the saltiness
• All purpose flour: thickens the béchamel creating a stable creamy sauce
• Milk: brings the béchamel together use whole milk for the richest flavor and texture warm before adding to the roux
• Nutmeg: gives classic warmth to the white sauce grate fresh nutmeg for delicate fragrance
• Lasagna noodles: create the structure of the dish cook until just al dente so they absorb sauce without turning mushy
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts for gooey layers and a golden top whole milk mozzarella gives the best melt
• Optional Gruyere or Fontina cheese: add even more richness and a hint of nuttiness if you want extra decadence

Step by Step Instructions

Make the White Sauce:

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until foaming then sprinkle in the flour and vigorously whisk for about one minute until the mixture looks smooth and smells slightly nutty. Gradually pour in warm milk in small additions whisking constantly after each addition until no lumps remain. Keep whisking for five to seven minutes until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of your spoon. Season the sauce with salt pepper and nutmeg then stir in Parmesan until melted and set the pan aside off the heat.

Prepare the Seafood Filling:

Place ricotta cheese in a large mixing bowl then add the egg Parmesan garlic powder onion powder chopped parsley salt and pepper. Beat briskly until everything is completely blended. Very gently fold in the chopped shrimp and crab meat to keep the seafood in nice pieces and not overmixed.

Assemble the Lasagna:

Heat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish and smooth a very thin layer of béchamel over the bottom to prevent sticking. Lay three noodles across the pan then spoon a third of the seafood filling on top spreading it evenly. Drizzle generously with white sauce and scatter on a layer of mozzarella. Repeat this layering process two more times using all the filling and most of the cheese. Top with the last layer of noodles cover with the remaining béchamel and finish with the rest of the mozzarella plus Gruyere or Fontina if using.

Bake:

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil making sure it does not touch the cheese. Bake for thirty minutes then remove the foil and bake for another ten to fifteen minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the lasagna to rest uncovered for ten minutes so it sets and slices cleanly.

Pin it

I love choosing a good Gruyere to finish the top because of its nutty flavor and golden color once baked. My family always gathers around the kitchen island when it comes bubbling out of the oven and it never fails to spark conversation and requests for seconds.

Storage Tips

Let the lasagna cool completely then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage slice into portions individually wrap each and freeze for up to two months. Reheat from chilled or frozen in a moderate oven until hot throughout and the cheese is bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh shrimp or crab are out of budget or season substitute with good quality frozen options making sure to drain very well to avoid excess moisture in the filling. Cottage cheese can stand in for ricotta but may produce a looser filling. Mozzarella can be swapped for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve big squares of this lasagna with a simple green salad and crisp white wine for a dinner party. It also pairs nicely with roasted asparagus or broccolini. Add a crusty baguette for soaking up any extra sauce.

Cultural Inspiration

Seafood lasagna is a coastal Italian American twist on the classic dish inspired by the bounty of the sea. In regions along the Italian coast seafood replaces the red sauce and ground meat for special occasions or festive gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use imitation crab for this dish?

Yes, high-quality imitation crab can be substituted, though real crab offers the best flavor and texture.

→ How should I prepare the shrimp?

Cook, peel, and devein the shrimp before chopping them into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving.

→ What’s the best cheese blend for the topping?

Mozzarella provides meltiness. Adding Gruyère or Fontina delivers extra richness and a nutty flavor.

→ How do I prevent watery layers?

Drain seafood well and use boiled or oven-ready noodles to reduce excess moisture in the final bake.

→ What sides go well with this?

Pair with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a balanced, complete meal.