There’s something utterly luxurious about digging into a bubbling Seafood Lasagna, with its layers of tender pasta, a velvety cream sauce, and succulent morsels of shrimp, crab, and scallops. This dish is a celebration of the sea, yet feels like warm comfort food, perfect for a family gathering or special occasion. Baked to golden, cheesy perfection, it’s the type Main Course
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s walk through what makes this Seafood Lasagna truly special. Each ingredient is chosen for its role in achieving the creamy, savory, and slightly briny harmony that sets this dish apart. Simple, well-loved staples join forces with fresh seafood for a meal that’s as fun to prepare as it is to enjoy.
- Lasagna noodles (9, cooked and drained): These tender ribbons form the backbone of every bite, soaking up sauce and flavor.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps build the cream sauce base.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Balances out the butter, giving a pleasant hint of fruitiness and aiding in sautéing the aromatics.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds that unmistakable Italian aroma and flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the sauce so it clings perfectly to each layer.
- Whole milk (2 1/2 cups): The main vessel for creating a silky béchamel-like sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds indulgence and a plush texture to the finished lasagna.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to season the sauce without overpowering the seafood.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a subtle, spicy undertone if you like a little kick.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts beautifully into the sauce, giving it depth and savoriness.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): For those classic melty and stretchy cheese moments in every slice.
- Shrimp (1/2 pound, peeled, deveined, and chopped): Sweet and tender, they’re a star of the seafood trio.
- Scallops (1/2 pound, cut into small pieces): Bring a lovely mild flavor and luxurious texture.
- Lump crab meat (1/2 pound, picked over for shells): Adds a delicate, briny sweetness throughout the lasagna.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and lifts all the creamy, cheesy richness.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): The finishing touch, giving freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make Seafood Lasagna
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Build the Cream Sauce
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmery, toss in the chopped onion and let it soften until translucent and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir just until fragrant—nothing beats that savory aroma! Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly, to form a roux. Let it cook for a minute to lose any raw taste. Then, slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking while it simmers until the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy mixture—around 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and (if you love a touch of warmth) red pepper flakes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice until you have a pudding-thick sauce, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Cook the Seafood
Using the same skillet (no need for extra dishes if you can help it!), add your chopped shrimp and scallops. Sauté over medium heat until just opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes—they’ll finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, taking care not to break up those precious chunks, and remove from the heat. Now the star seafood mixture for your Seafood Lasagna is ready and waiting.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Spread a thin layer of your creamy sauce across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the noodles from sticking. Lay down 3 cooked lasagna noodles, top with one-third of the seafood mixture, and ladle over a generous portion of sauce. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat this process for two more layers: noodles, seafood, sauce, cheese. Finish with a last layer of noodles, the remainder of your sauce, and all the remaining mozzarella for that golden, irresistible top.
Step 4: Bake and Rest
Cover your masterpiece loosely with foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the top is bubbling and beautifully golden. Let your Seafood Lasagna rest out of the oven for 10 minutes—this crucial wait time helps the layers set, making slicing and serving much easier.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the finished lasagna for an herbal lift and a splash of color. This final flourish brings everything together and makes your Seafood Lasagna truly shine on the table!
How to Serve Seafood Lasagna
Garnishes
Parsley is the classic finishing touch: bright, fresh, and vibrant against all that creamy richness. For extra flair, add a sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving—it’ll contrast beautifully with the baked cheese and seafood. A dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or even a tiny drizzle of olive oil can also highlight the dish’s coastal flavors.
Side Dishes
Seafood Lasagna pairs like a dream with a simple green salad, tossed in a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Crusty garlic bread is another favorite, ideal for soaking up leftover sauce. Roasted asparagus or broccolini adds a crisp-tender bite and a pop of color, making your plate both delicious and stunning.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party—everyone loves getting their own personal serving! Slice and plate with a flourish of microgreens or edible flowers if you’re feeling fancy. A wedge of lemon on each plate not only looks pretty but lets guests brighten their slice to taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Seafood Lasagna completely, then transfer slices into airtight containers. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and delicious for up to three days. The flavors only deepen as they mingle, so leftovers can be even tastier the next day!
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the baked lasagna (cooled to room temperature) tightly in plastic wrap and then with foil. It keeps well for up to three months. For best results, freeze in smaller portions for quicker reheating and serving. Be sure to label with the date so you remember when you stashed it away.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the refrigerator. Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. A quick zap in the microwave also works for individual slices—just use a lower power setting so the cheese melts without drying out the seafood.
FAQs
Can I make Seafood Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated, unbaked. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. This is a fantastic make-ahead centerpiece for holidays and gatherings.
What other seafood can I use?
Feel free to get creative with your favorite ocean flavors! Swap out the shrimp, scallops, or crab for cooked white fish, lobster, or even smoked salmon. Adjust the seasoning as needed, but the creamy sauce works beautifully with a variety of seafood.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the sauce. The rest of the recipe stays the same, making it easy for gluten-sensitive friends and family to enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite.
Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
Definitely. Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or finely diced bell peppers layer in extra color and nutrition. Just make sure to cook off any excess moisture from the vegetables before layering to avoid a watery lasagna.
How do I avoid overcooked seafood in my Seafood Lasagna?
The key is to lightly pre-cook the seafood just until it turns opaque, since it’ll continue to cook in the oven. Stick to the 2–3 minute sauté, and your shrimp and scallops will turn out perfectly tender, never rubbery.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never baked a Seafood Lasagna before, let this recipe be your invitation to dive in! The creamy sauce, briny seafood, and golden cheese make it an unforgettable dish that’s just as much fun to prepare as it is to share. Gather your ingredients, pour a glass of wine, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a classic that’s bound to become a new favorite.
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Seafood Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this rich and flavorful Seafood Lasagna, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. Layers of lasagna noodles, creamy seafood sauce, and gooey cheese come together for a decadent meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
Creamy Seafood Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped), 1/2 pound scallops (cut into small pieces), 1/2 pound lump crab meat (picked over for shells), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic. Add flour, milk, cream, and seasonings, then incorporate cheeses and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Cook the seafood: Saute shrimp and scallops, then fold in crab.
- Assemble the lasagna: Layer noodles, seafood mixture, sauce, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Repeat layers and bake.
- Finish and serve: Rest, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the seafood mix to your preference.
- For a richer dish, consider adding more Parmesan or ricotta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
