Decadent Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab: A Gourmet Comfort Classic

 Decadent Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab: A Gourmet Comfort Classic

If you're searching for a show-stopping dish that blends luxurious seafood, creamy cheese, and layers of indulgent flavor, look no further than this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab. This isn’t your average pasta bake—this is a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a romantic dinner, or just want to spoil yourself (and others), this rich, cheesy seafood lasagna is guaranteed to impress.

What makes this dish truly irresistible is its balance: succulent shrimp, sweet lump crab meat, and a silky white béchamel sauce all nestled between tender lasagna noodles and gooey cheese. Every bite is creamy, briny, and absolutely comforting.

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🦐 Seafood Lasagna Ingredients & Their Roles

Each ingredient has been carefully chosen to ensure a rich, balanced, and flavorful result.

For the Seafood Mixture:

1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, chopped) – Provides a juicy, tender bite and soaks up the flavor of garlic and seasoning.

1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained) – Offers a sweet, briny contrast that pairs perfectly with the richness of the sauce.

2 tbsp unsalted butter – Used to sauté the seafood, adding richness and helping carry the seasoning.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor with a subtle aromatic kick.

1 tsp Old Bay seasoning – A classic seafood blend that adds depth and just the right amount of spice.

For the White Sauce (Béchamel):

4 tbsp unsalted butter – The base for your roux, giving the sauce a silky texture.

1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.

2 cups whole milk (warm) – Adds creaminess without being overly heavy.

1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich.

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional) – Adds warmth and complexity.

Salt and white pepper, to taste – Seasoning to enhance the delicate seafood flavors.

For the Cheese Layer:

15 oz ricotta cheese – The creamy heart of each layer, adding structure and richness.

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness and umami, and helps create a golden crust.

1 large egg – Binds the ricotta mixture so it holds its shape.

1 tbsp fresh basil or dill (optional) – Adds freshness and a pop of herbaceous flavor.

Other Ingredients:

9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked al dente) – The structure of the lasagna; use oven-ready for a shortcut.

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a bubbly, golden top layer.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Seafood Lasagna

1. Sauté the Seafood

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Stir in chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until just pink.

4. Add lump crab meat and Old Bay seasoning, stirring gently to combine.

5. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the White Sauce (Béchamel)

1. In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux; cook for 1 minute.

3. Gradually whisk in warm milk and heavy cream until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).

4. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and white pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

3. Mix the Ricotta Filling

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and optional herbs.

2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom.

3. Layer:

3 cooked lasagna noodles

1/3 of the ricotta mixture

1/3 of the seafood

1/3 of the white sauce

Sprinkle of mozzarella

4. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.

5. Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

2. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

3. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set.

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💡 Why This Recipe is Loved

Creamy yet Light: The white sauce complements the seafood without overpowering it.

Balanced Flavors: Old Bay, garlic, and herbs bring complexity without overwhelming the delicate shrimp and crab.

Versatile: Easily adaptable—swap in lobster, scallops, or a touch of lemon zest for a custom twist.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble a day in advance and bake just before serving.

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🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Seafood Lasagna

Use high-quality crab meat (look for lump or backfin) for the best texture and flavor.

Don’t overcook the shrimp during sautéing—they’ll cook more in the oven.

Warm milk before adding to the roux to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.

Let it rest before cutting—this helps the layers hold together beautifully.

Finish with a broil for the last 2 minutes if you want a crispy, golden cheese top.

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🥗 Serving Suggestions

Complete your meal with:

Garlic butter asparagus or roasted broccolini

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

Crusty artisan bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce

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✅ Conclusion: A Show-Stopping Seafood Lasagna Made Simple

This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab brings elegance to your table without hours of fuss. Creamy, cheesy, briny, and satisfying—it’s a luxurious twist on an Italian classic that will have your guests raving. Whether you're celebrating or just craving something special, this is your go-to recipe.

Make it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Rich in flavor, stunning in presentation, and easy to prep ahead—it checks all the boxes for a perfect dinner.

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👉 Ready t

o impress? Save this recipe, share it, and dive into seafood heaven tonight.

Looking for more gourmet dinner ideas? Stay tuned for more seafood-inspired masterpieces and irresistible comfort classics!