Seafood lasagna is a decadent and flavorful twist on the classic Italian favorite, combining the tender sweetness of shrimp and crab with creamy Alfredo sauce and a blend of rich cheeses. This dish brings together layers of perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, succulent seafood, and a luscious cheese mixture, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It is an elegant yet comforting meal ideal for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to a seafood feast.
This recipe focuses on balancing textures and flavors—from the creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses to the savory garlic-seasoned shrimp and crab, finished with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for contrast. The Alfredo sauce and heavy cream add richness, while a hint of red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick without overpowering the delicate seafood.
Whether you are a seafood lover or looking to impress guests, this seafood lasagna delivers layers of indulgent taste and satisfying comfort.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 lasagna noodles
Seafood
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crab meat
Cheeses
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Sauces and Creams
- 4 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Prepare the lasagna noodles by cooking them according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and lay them flat to prevent sticking.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet 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, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the crab meat, seasoning the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir the mixture until smooth and well blended. This creamy cheese blend will be spread between layers of noodles and seafood to add richness and moisture.
- Lightly spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles to cover the bottom. Spread one-third of the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by one-third of the seafood mixture. Drizzle a generous amount of Alfredo sauce over the seafood to keep the layers moist and flavorful.
- Repeat this layering process two more times—noodles, cheese mixture, seafood, Alfredo sauce—finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with Alfredo sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top layer, then evenly distribute the breadcrumbs to create a crunchy topping once baked. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set for cleaner serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Seafood Lasagna
- Make sure to cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough.
- Evenly spread the Alfredo sauce in each layer to ensure every bite is rich and moist.
- Using fresh crab meat will elevate the dish, but good quality canned crab can also be used.
- If you prefer a spicier lasagna, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- To save time, prepare the seafood mixture and cheese blend in advance and assemble just before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Seafood lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy textures and seafood flavors. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread also make excellent side dishes to soak up any extra sauce.
Storage
Leftover seafood lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, the lasagna can be frozen before baking; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the instructions, adding extra baking time if necessary.
Why This Recipe Works
This seafood lasagna recipe successfully balances the delicate flavors of shrimp and crab with creamy cheeses and a luscious Alfredo sauce. The layering technique allows every forkful to deliver a harmonious blend of textures—from tender pasta and succulent seafood to creamy cheeses and the crunchy breadcrumb topping. The seasoning with garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes adds depth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the seafood.
With simple ingredients and clear steps, this dish is accessible for home cooks while still feeling impressive and restaurant-quality. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this seafood lasagna is sure to become a favorite.
Conclusion
Seafood lasagna with shrimp and crab is a delicious way to bring together some of the ocean’s best flavors into a comforting layered casserole. Creamy cheeses, savory seafood, and rich Alfredo sauce combine to create a satisfying dish with a golden, bubbly crust. Easy to prepare yet elegant on the table, it makes a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Try this recipe for your next dinner party or special occasion and enjoy the wonderful harmony of flavors that only a seafood lasagna can provide. It’s a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food that seafood lovers will adore.