If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and comfortingly hearty, Seafood Lasagna is the answer you didn’t even know you needed. This Italian-American classic layers tender noodles with a silky, creamy seafood sauce and plenty of gooey cheese for a result that’s pure decadence. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply want to treat your family to something unforgettable, Seafood Lasagna offers a one-of-a-kind flavor experience that brings together the best of both surf and turf worlds—without ever feeling fussy or finicky.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Seafood Lasagna starts with simple ingredients, each one contributing to the rich flavor, creamy texture, and inviting golden color of the final dish. Nothing here is complicated, but every component brings its own unique flair to every mouthwatering layer.
- Lasagna noodles: Classic pasta sheets give structure to the lasagna and soak up all that creamy sauce.
- Butter: A small amount for sautéing ensures a rich base and silky, luxurious sauce.
- Onion (diced): Sautéed onion provides a sweet, aromatic background.
- Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic delivers an unmistakable savory kick that seafood loves.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce and creating that velvety texture.
- Milk: Forms the creamy backbone of the white sauce—use whole milk for maximum richness.
- Heavy cream: This turns the sauce extra luscious and coats the seafood beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor—don’t skip this for depth.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic, but essential to draw out all the natural tastes.
- Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood seasoning that wakes up every bite.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle, warming heat that’s never overwhelming.
- Shrimp (chopped): These little bites provide sweetness and a bouncy, tender texture throughout.
- Bay scallops: Small and sweet, scallops bring a delicate ocean flavor to the mix.
- Imitation or lump crab meat (chopped): Crab gives a tender, juicy accent—use real lump for extra sweetness if you like.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and creates those irresistible cheesy layers.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Finishes the dish with a pop of green and a hint of freshness.
How to Make Seafood Lasagna
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until they’re al dente. Drain the noodles and gently spread them on a baking sheet or clean towel so they don’t stick together—this little bit of prep will make assembly a breeze later.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Seafood Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then toss in the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until you catch that irresistible aroma and see the onions turn translucent. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring for about a minute to form a roux—this is your ticket to a super smooth sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly so everything blends together, and keep it moving until the sauce thickens (about 5 to 7 minutes). Add the Parmesan, salt, pepper, Old Bay seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Now, gently stir in the shrimp, scallops, and crab, and cook for just 3 to 4 minutes—enough for the seafood to turn opaque and tender, but not overcooked!
Step 3: Assemble the Seafood Lasagna
Spoon a thin layer of your seafood sauce onto the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay down three noodles, then top with more sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Continue layering—noodles, sauce, mozzarella—until you’ve built three full layers, using all the sauce and finishing with cheese on top for that classic lasagna look.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden on top. If you like those crispy edges, let it go a few minutes longer, but watch closely so it doesn’t over-brown. Let the Seafood Lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this patience pays off with perfectly-cut squares!
How to Serve Seafood Lasagna
Garnishes
Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the bubbling hot lasagna right before serving. A touch of lemon zest is also delightful, adding brightness and balancing the richness of the seafood and cheese.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette beautifully balances the creamy decadence of Seafood Lasagna. For something a little extra, serve with garlicky sautéed asparagus or classic toasted garlic bread to mop up every bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking Seafood Lasagna in individual ramekins for an impressive dinner party touch, or garnish each slice with a curl of lemon peel and a whole shrimp on top for restaurant-style flair. Serving on colorful plates with a sprinkle of fresh herbs instantly elevates the dish and makes every bite feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Seafood Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, making it just as irresistible for lunch the next day!
Freezing
Seafood Lasagna freezes surprisingly well. Cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to two months. For best results, freeze before baking and bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to your baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place your slice in a covered oven-safe dish and bake at 325°F until heated through (about 20 minutes). You can also microwave individual slices for a speedy lunch, though the oven will help keep that cheese deliciously melty and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked seafood?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked shrimp, scallops, or crab make this recipe even faster. Just fold it into the sauce at the end to warm through—no additional cooking needed.
What’s the best substitute for imitation crab?
If you prefer not to use imitation crab, real lump crab meat is wonderful for sweetness and authentic flavor. You could also use extra shrimp or scallops if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I add vegetables to my Seafood Lasagna?
Definitely! Baby spinach, blanched asparagus, or tender peas mix in beautifully and add a burst of color and nutrition without overpowering the seafood.
How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Letting the lasagna rest after baking is crucial—it helps the layers set and keeps extra moisture from running out when you slice. Also, make sure to drain your seafood well before adding it to the sauce.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles and swap the flour in the sauce for a gluten-free blend. All the other ingredients in Seafood Lasagna are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Lasagna might sound fancy, but it’s really just a warm hug layered with flavor, ready to wow your dinner table. Once you try this irresistible twist on a classic, you won’t want to wait for a special occasion to make it again—so roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food!
Print
Seafood Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Seafood Lasagna. Layers of lasagna noodles, a savory seafood mix, and gooey cheese come together to create a decadent dish perfect for a special dinner.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
- 9 lasagna noodles
Seafood Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 pound bay scallops
- 1/2 pound imitation crab meat or lump crab meat, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the noodles: Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Make the seafood sauce: Melt butter in a skillet, sauté onion and garlic, stir in flour, then gradually whisk in milk and cream. Add Parmesan, seasonings, and seafood. Cook until just done.
- Assemble the lasagna: Layer noodles, seafood sauce, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Repeat for three layers, ending with sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Pre-cooked seafood can be used for quicker preparation.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
