Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

This seafood lasagna is the kind of dish that instantly makes dinner feel special. Tender lasagna noodles are layered with juicy shrimp, delicate crab meat, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Every forkful delivers comforting warmth with a touch of elegance that makes this recipe perfect for both weeknight indulgence and special gatherings.

Finished with a light breadcrumb topping and baked until golden and bubbling, this lasagna balances creamy textures with savory seafood flavor in a way that feels luxurious yet familiar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ideal for make-ahead meals and stress-free entertaining
• Impressive centerpiece for holidays and dinner parties
• Rich, creamy layers with plenty of shrimp and crab in every bite
• Comfort food with an elevated seafood twist

I originally prepared this dish as a birthday surprise for my father, who loves both seafood and pasta. After one bite, he said it tasted like something straight out of a restaurant kitchen — and since then, it has become a family favorite we return to again and again.

Ingredients Overview

• Lasagna noodles: Wide pasta sheets work best for holding creamy sauces
• Shrimp: Peeled and deveined; fresh or frozen both work well
• Crab meat: Lump crab provides the best texture and flavor
• Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy structure to the filling
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy layers
• Parmesan cheese: Sharp and salty, perfect for depth of flavor
• Alfredo sauce: The creamy foundation of the lasagna
• Heavy cream: Enhances richness and smooth texture
• Garlic: Freshly minced for aromatic flavor
• Olive oil: Used to sauté the seafood
• Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and color
• Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning
• Red pepper flakes: Optional for gentle heat
• Breadcrumbs: Create a lightly crisp, golden topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until just al dente. Drain well and lay them flat to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Seafood:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes, until pink and opaque. Gently stir in crab meat, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Layers:
   Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by one-third of the cheese mixture, one-third of the seafood, and a drizzle of Alfredo sauce. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with noodles and sauce on top.
5. Add the Topping:
   Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the lasagna. Finish with breadcrumbs for a golden, crisp surface.
6. Bake:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned.
7. Rest and Serve:
   Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.

Helpful Tips

• Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender
• Ensure noodles are fully covered with sauce to prevent drying
• Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes richer
• Letting the lasagna rest helps the layers set perfectly

Storage & Make-Ahead

Store leftover seafood lasagna in the refrigerator for up to two days, tightly covered. When reheating, add a splash of cream to keep the texture creamy. This dish can also be frozen for up to one month when wrapped well and fully cooled.

Recipe Card

This seafood lasagna brings together comfort, elegance, and rich flavor in one unforgettable dish. Whether served for a celebration or a cozy dinner at home, it’s guaranteed to impress.