Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp

This seafood lasagna combines tender shrimp and sweet crab meat layered with rich Alfredo sauce and a blend of cheeses for a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. The garlic sautéed seafood adds a burst of flavor while the creamy mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates luscious layers. Topped with a golden crust of extra cheese and breadcrumbs, this lasagna is perfect for special occasions or any time you want to treat your family to something fancy yet easy to make.

I first made this for a family holiday dinner, and it quickly became a much requested favorite. The kids loved the shrimp, and the grownups enjoyed the cheesy, comforting richness that made everyone feel special.

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles: the base for layering use no boil noodles for convenience or cook regular ones al dente to avoid sogginess
• Shrimp: peeled and deveined for easy eating fresh or thawed frozen ensures tenderness and best flavor
• Crab meat: lump crab offers a sweet luxurious texture that elevates the dish
• Ricotta cheese: adds creamy softness and balances the seafood’s briny flavors
• Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully to create gooey stretchy layers
• Parmesan cheese: sharp and nutty it deepens the flavor profile
• Alfredo sauce: creamy and rich this binds everything together homemade or good quality store bought works well
• Heavy cream: enriches the cheese filling making it silky smooth
• Garlic: fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth and a flavor boost
• Olive oil: for gently sautéing the garlic and seafood to develop flavor
• Fresh parsley: a bright herbaceous touch to finish the dish
• Salt black pepper and red pepper flakes: seasonings that balance and add a subtle kick
• Breadcrumbs: for a crunchy topping use fresh or panko to get a golden crust

Instructions

Preheat and prepare noodles:

Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius (375 degrees Fahrenheit). If you are using regular lasagna noodles cook them following the package instructions until they are al dente meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked drain carefully and lay them out separated to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Sauté the seafood:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute just until fragrant but not browned to release its aroma without bitterness. Add the shrimp and cook for three to four minutes until they turn pink and opaque signaling they are perfectly cooked. Stir in the crab meat gently then season with salt black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Cook everything together for another two to three minutes then remove from the heat to avoid overcooking.

Mix the cheese filling:

In a medium bowl combine ricotta cheese with one cup of shredded mozzarella half a cup of grated Parmesan heavy cream and chopped fresh parsley. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This creamy herby cheese filling will add richness and a fresh flavor contrast to the seafood layers.

Assemble the layers:

Spread a thin coating of Alfredo sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spoon one third of the cheese mixture gently over the noodles then evenly distribute one third of the seafood mixture on top. Drizzle some Alfredo sauce over the seafood to keep the layers moist and flavorful. Repeat this layering process two more times finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with Alfredo sauce.

Top and bake:

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the final layer. Add the breadcrumbs on top for crunch and texture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this initial baking time remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the lasagna is bubbly all over.

Rest and serve:

Once baked allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set so that the slices hold shape when cut. Garnish with additional fresh parsley to add a pop of color and brightness. Serve warm and enjoy the rich layered flavors.

My favorite part of this dish is the fresh crab meat. It brings a subtle sweetness and a luxurious touch that makes every bite feel special. One time I made this for a close friend’s birthday and watching everyone’s eyes light up as they tasted the layers made it clear I had found a new go to recipe for celebrations.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating use an oven to preserve the crunchy breadcrumb topping or microwave in short bursts if you’re in a hurry. This lasagna also freezes well thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain taste and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh crab is unavailable canned lump crab meat can work but the texture will be softer and less luxurious. Shrimp can be replaced with scallops or a firm white fish like cod or halibut. For Alfredo sauce a high quality jarred option is fine but making your own with butter cream and Parmesan cheese will always taste fresher and richer.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this seafood lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans work beautifully as sides. For drinks a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and seafood without overpowering the fresh flavors.

Let the lasagna rest before slicing to help it set. Serve warm and enjoy the luxurious seafood flavors.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Sauté shrimp briefly until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes, to keep them tender and juicy without becoming rubbery.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Traditional lasagna noodles hold layers well and absorb sauces without becoming soggy, making them ideal for this dish.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Increase baking time if starting from cold.

→ How do I get a crunchy topping?

Sprinkle fresh or panko breadcrumbs mixed with cheeses over the top layer before baking to create a golden, crispy crust.

→ Which seasonings enhance the seafood flavors?

Fresh garlic, parsley, black pepper, salt, and a touch of red pepper flakes highlight the natural seafood taste.