Creamy Seafood Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Seafood Lasagna is a decadent and satisfying dish that combines the best of two worlds: lasagna and seafood. The creamy, garlicky white sauce perfectly complements the delicate seafood, and the layers of pasta add structure to this indulgent meal. It’s a great alternative to meat-based lasagna and offers a unique flavor profile with each bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or a special dinner, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Seafood Filling:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

• 1/2 lb crab meat (fresh or imitation)

• 1/2 lb scallops, chopped

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 9-12 lasagna noodles (depending on the size of your dish)

• Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Seafood Filling:

1. Cook the Seafood:

   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

   • Add the shrimp, crab meat, and scallops. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is pink and the scallops are opaque.

   • If using white wine, add it to the skillet and let it cook for 1-2 minutes,  Season the seafood with salt and pepper to taste.

   • Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Set aside to cool slightly.

For the White Sauce:

2. Make the White Sauce:

   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is slightly golden.

   • Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Lasagna:

3. Prepare the Noodles:

   • Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If you want to avoid sticking, you can lay them flat on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil.

4. Layer the Lasagna:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom.

   • Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Then, spread half of the seafood filling on top of the noodles. Add another layer of white sauce. Repeat with another layer of noodles, the remaining seafood filling, and the remaining white sauce.

   • Top with a final layer of noodles and cover with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

   • Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 8-10 people.

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the seafood with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seafood filling or the white sauce for some heat.

• Extra Creamy: Use extra heavy cream or add cream cheese to the white sauce for an even richer, creamier texture.

• Lighter Option: Use a lighter cream or milk alternative for a less rich version, such as low-fat milk or almond milk.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lasagna a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of the white sauce?

For a twist, you could substitute the white sauce with marinara sauce, but the creamy texture will be replaced by the acidity of the tomato sauce. The white sauce is what makes this a creamy seafood lasagna.

4. Can I freeze the lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

5. Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese for a different texture.

6. Can I add more seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of shrimp, crab, or scallops to suit your taste.

7. How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?

Make sure the seafood mixture is not too liquidy before layering it in the lasagna. Also, be sure to drain the pasta and any excess liquid from the seafood before assembling.

8. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, no-boil noodles can be used in this recipe, but be sure to add a little extra liquid (such as more milk or broth) in the white sauce to help cook the noodles as they bake.

9. How do I know when the lasagna is done?

The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also check by inserting a knife in the center to ensure it’s hot throughout.

Conclusion

Creamy Seafood Lasagna is a luxurious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or just when you want to indulge in something delicious. The creamy white sauce pairs beautifully with the tender seafood, making each bite a satisfying treat. Whether for a family meal or a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress and delight your guests. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite!

---

Print