If you have a craving for something rich, creamy, and packed with ocean-fresh flavors, the Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. This dish layers tender lasagna noodles with a luscious blend of shrimp and crab, creamy ricotta and Alfredo sauce, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will warm your heart and satisfy your soul. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, making this seafood lasagna a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want to treat yourself to true culinary bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this delightful seafood lasagna both memorable and mouthwatering. Each component here plays a crucial role—whether it’s the delicate sweetness of the shrimp and crab, the creamy texture of ricotta and Alfredo sauce, or the melty goodness of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses that bring everything together perfectly.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Provides the perfect sturdy yet tender base to hold all the layers together.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds sweet, succulent seafood flavor and delightful texture.
- 1 lb crab meat: Enhances the dish with its sweet, delicate taste and flaky consistency.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Gives creaminess and a mild richness to the lasagna layers.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey, melty cheese that stretches with every bite.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty sharpness that deepens the flavor profile.
- 4 cups Alfredo sauce: Brings velvety and lush creaminess, tying all the ingredients together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Amplifies the richness of the cheese mixture for that ultimate comfort feel.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a subtle bite.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing garlic and seafood, adding a gentle fruity undertone.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh, herbal notes and color.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances all flavors without overpowering.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild, spicy kick that complements seafood perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Optional but adds a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Creates a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts so well with the creamy inside.
How to Make Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles and preheat the oven
The foundation for any great lasagna starts with perfectly cooked noodles. Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente—tender but still firm enough to hold all those luscious layers. Drain and set aside, as this step ensures your lasagna won’t turn mushy once baked.
Step 2: Cook the shrimp and crab mixture
Next, heat up your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about one minute. This releases the wonderful aroma that builds the flavor base. Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, roughly 3 to 4 minutes. Add the crab meat, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the seafood from heat and set it aside to preserve its tender texture.
Step 3: Mix the creamy cheese filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, one cup of shredded mozzarella, half a cup of Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and freshly chopped parsley. Mix everything until smooth and well blended. This creamy cheese mixture is what makes the layers so indulgent and comforting—each spoonful melts in your mouth with a harmonious richness.
Step 4: Layer the lasagna
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom—this prevents sticking and infuses moisture. Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles, then spread one-third of your cheese mixture evenly over them. Follow this with one-third of the seafood mixture and a drizzle of Alfredo sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ensuring you finish with noodles topped with plenty of Alfredo sauce. This meticulous layering brings that perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Top and bake
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the final noodle layer, then generously add the breadcrumbs for a wonderful crunch once baked. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly—this crispy topping is the perfect contrast to the creamy inside.
Step 6: Rest and garnish
Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to portion and preventing it from falling apart. Sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a touch of herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish. For an extra lemony zing, serve with thin lemon wedges, as a light squeeze can brighten each bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic to soak up any leftover Alfredo sauce, making every forkful even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a striking presentation, serve this lasagna in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. Top each portion with a sprig of parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan. Layered in clear glass dishes, the beautiful layers of cheese, seafood, and sauce make a visually appealing centerpiece for any dinner gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover seafood lasagna keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making for an even more satisfying meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this lasagna for up to three months. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or place the entire dish in a 175°C (350°F) oven covered with foil for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil the last five minutes to refresh the crispy breadcrumb topping.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood in this lasagna?
Absolutely! This recipe is flexible—you can swap or add scallops, lobster, or even firm white fish. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep your seafood tender and juicy.
Do I need to boil the lasagna noodles before assembling?
Yes, boiling the noodles al dente ensures they cook perfectly within the dish’s baking time. It prevents sogginess and helps them hold their shape.
Is Alfredo sauce homemade or store-bought better for this recipe?
Either works well. A good-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time and adds creaminess, but homemade sauce lets you control ingredients and customize flavor.
Can I prepare this seafood lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day before baking, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes red pepper flakes as an optional ingredient, so you can control the heat level. Without the flakes, the dish is mild and creamy—perfect for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is a special meal that brings warmth, elegance, and pure joy to your table. It combines easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps with incredible layers of flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; once you do, it might just become your go-to comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender layers of pasta, creamy ricotta and Alfredo sauce, and a savory seafood blend of shrimp and crab. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s an indulgent dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crab meat
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 4 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare Pasta: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Cook Seafood: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, around 3-4 minutes. Stir in the crab meat, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Mix until fully blended and creamy.
- Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Add one-third of the seafood mixture on top, then drizzle with Alfredo sauce. Repeat the layering process twice more, finishing with a layer of noodles and Alfredo sauce on top.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the final layer. Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure the seafood is cooked just right to keep it tender and flavorful without overcooking.
- Using fresh parsley brightens the flavor, but dried parsley can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- You can substitute Alfredo sauce with a white béchamel sauce if preferred.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it hold together when slicing.
