Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Welcome to HomeasyRecipes.com, your cozy kitchen companion where hearty traditions meet fresh, irresistible flavors. I’m Anna—the creator and storyteller here. This little corner of the internet grew from the love and lessons I soaked up in my grandmother Mary’s kitchen. She believed every meal could bring people together, and I’m here to keep that spirit alive with recipes that are approachable, soulful, and downright delicious.
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug with every bite, you’re going to fall in love with this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab. It’s a luxurious twist on the classic Italian favorite, layering tender shrimp, sweet lump crab, and even hints of lobster between sheets of pasta and a velvety cream sauce. The result? A decadent yet balanced meal perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just because you deserve it.
At HomeasyRecipes, I believe in recipes that fit real life—no over-complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. This seafood lasagna is proof you can create restaurant-quality meals in your own kitchen without the stress.
So, whether you’re an experienced cook or still figuring out how to boil water without a mini crisis, this recipe will guide you step by step. Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring a little coastal elegance to your dinner table.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab is a Must-Try
A Fusion of Flavors from Land and Sea
Few dishes embody comfort and elegance quite like Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab. Imagine tender pasta sheets cradling layers of velvety cream sauce, sweet chunks of crab, and perfectly cooked shrimp. This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, marrying the richness of Italian cuisine with the freshness of the ocean.
Unlike the classic meat lasagna, this version introduces a lighter, more refined flavor profile while still feeling indulgent. The creamy béchamel sauce, infused with clam juice and dry white wine, balances the delicate seafood, creating a harmony that feels both familiar and exciting. It’s a recipe that answers the age-old question: Can you put shrimp in lasagna? Yes—and when you do it right, it transforms the dish completely.
At HomeasyRecipes, we believe that even sophisticated dishes like this should feel approachable. That’s why our recipe avoids overly complicated steps and focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients you can actually find. Whether you’re making it for a family Sunday dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this seafood lasagna is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal stress.
For another luxurious seafood dinner idea, try our Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, a perfect complement to your seafood lasagna nights.
The Rise of Seafood Lasagna in Modern Comfort Food
Over the past decade, seafood variations of traditional dishes have exploded in popularity. From lobster mac and cheese to shrimp alfredo, home cooks are realizing the versatility of seafood in comfort food classics. Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab takes this trend a step further, offering a dish that feels both comforting and elevated.
Food lovers are also exploring ingredient swaps to enhance their lasagna. Is lasagna better with ricotta or cottage cheese? For seafood lasagna, ricotta’s creamy, mild flavor pairs beautifully with crab and shrimp, adding a richness that complements the lighter proteins.
This Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab also embraces the idea of layering flavor. Garlic, lemon juice, and fresh parsley don’t just add taste—they bring brightness and complexity that make every bite unforgettable. It’s no wonder food blogs and chefs alike are calling seafood lasagna the new star of Italian-inspired cuisine.
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Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and creamy seafood lasagna layered with tender shrimp, sweet crab, lobster, and a silky béchamel sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (8-ounce) bottle clam juice
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pound dried lasagna noodles
- Olive oil
- 1/2 bunch fresh parsley
- 1/2 medium lemon
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 pound tiny raw, peeled, and cleaned shrimp (70 to 90 per pound)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more for the pasta
- 3 cups part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 3/4 cup)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed
- 8 ounces lump crab meat
- 8 ounces cooked and chopped lobster meat
- 1 pound low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 4 cups)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange a rack in the middle.
- Make the cream sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in clam juice and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened, 8–10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Cook lasagna noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cool water, and coat with olive oil.
- Prepare seafood: Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a skillet. Sauté garlic until golden. Add white wine and reduce. Cook shrimp until pink, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in parsley, lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix ricotta, Parmesan, remaining salt, and pepper in a bowl. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble lasagna: Spread 1/2 cup cream sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 1/3 of the noodles, half the ricotta mixture, half the seafood mixture (shrimp, lobster, crab), and 1 cup mozzarella. Dollop 1 cup cream sauce over cheese. Repeat layers. Top with final noodles, remaining cream sauce, and 2 cups mozzarella.
- Cover with foil sprayed with cooking oil. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then 20–25 minutes uncovered until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with reserved parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or thinly sliced zucchini.
- Make ahead: Assemble lasagna and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 325°F to retain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: Seafood Lasagna, Shrimp Lasagna, Crab Lasagna, Creamy Seafood Pasta, Holiday Lasagna Recipe
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Your Seafood Lasagna
Selecting Fresh Shrimp, Crab, and Lobster
The secret to a show-stopping Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab begins with your seafood selection. Using fresh, high-quality shrimp and lump crab meat makes all the difference in both texture and flavor. When buying shrimp, look for ones that are raw, peeled, and deveined. Smaller varieties like the 70 to 90 per pound size cook quickly and fit perfectly between lasagna layers.
As for crab, opt for lump crab meat for its sweet, delicate taste and tender bite. It’s ideal for lasagna because it holds up well during baking. Adding lobster meat into the mix may seem luxurious, but it brings a buttery richness that balances the other seafood beautifully.
If fresh seafood isn
’t available, high-quality frozen options can work too—just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess water in your lasagna. This is one of the easiest ways to elevate your home-cooked meals without breaking the bank.
The Role of Ricotta vs. Cottage Cheese: Which One Wins?
One question often asked is, Is lasagna better with ricotta or cottage cheese? For a dish like Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab, ricotta is the clear winner. Its smooth, creamy texture complements the tender seafood layers, creating a rich bite without overpowering the subtle flavors of shrimp and crab.
Cottage cheese can be a lighter alternative if you prefer less richness, but it doesn’t provide the same luxurious mouthfeel. To further enhance your lasagna, consider adding a touch of Parmesan cheese to the ricotta mixture for a slightly nutty, savory depth.
The cheeses in this
Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab —ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—combine to create the ultimate creamy, melty experience. They don’t just bind the layers together; they bring an unmistakable coziness to every forkful.Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Cream Sauce

Building a Silky, Flavorful Base with Clam Juice
The heart of a perfect Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab lies in its cream sauce. Unlike traditional marinara-based lasagna, this version relies on a velvety white sauce to accentuate the delicate seafood flavors. Using clam juice as a base may sound surprising, but it infuses the sauce with a gentle briny note that complements shrimp, crab, and lobster beautifully.
To start, melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a light roux—the foundation of your creamy béchamel. Slowly pour in clam juice, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, followed by whole milk for richness. The key here is patience; let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, transforming into a smooth, luxurious coating.
Seasoning matters ju
st as much as technique. Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper bring balance, while a pinch of nutmeg (optional) adds subtle warmth. This cream sauce isn’t just a binder; it’s a flavor powerhouse that elevates every layer of your seafood lasagna.Tips to Avoid Lumps and Achieve Perfect Consistency
Nothing ruins a good cream sauce faster than lumps. The secret? Whisk, whisk, whisk. Adding the liquids gradually and stirring continuously ensures a silky texture.
Another pro tip for Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab: don’t let the sauce boil aggressively. A gentle simmer thickens it perfectly without risking separation. If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of milk or reserved pasta water can bring it back to the right consistency.
This homemade white
sauce pairs so well with seafood that you might find yourself using it beyond lasagna—for baked fish, scalloped potatoes, or even as a dip for garlic bread.With your cream sauce ready, you’re one step closer to assembling the ultimate seafood lasagna that’s creamy, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable.

Preparing the Seafood Filling
Sautéing Shrimp and Lobster to Perfection
The magic of Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab starts with a perfectly prepared seafood filling. This step brings out the natural sweetness of shrimp and the rich, buttery essence of lobster, ensuring every bite of lasagna is packed with flavor.
Begin by melting uns
alted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and let it sizzle until fragrant and golden brown—this simple step creates an aromatic base that enhances the seafood without overwhelming it. Next, pour in dry white wine and let it simmer until almost evaporated. This not only deglazes the pan but also infuses the seafood with subtle acidity and depth.Now, add your raw shrimp. Cook for just a few minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them. After removing the pan from heat, toss in fresh parsley, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt for a bright, balanced finish.
This garlic-lemon-wine combination creates a seafood filling so flavorful, you might be tempted to eat it straight from the pan. But hold on—once layered with ricotta and mozzarella, it will transform your lasagna into an unforgettable masterpiece.
Infusing Garlic, Lemon, and Wine for Depth of Flavor
Garlic and lemon are classic pairings for seafood, and they shine here in the filling for your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab. Garlic provides a warm, savory base while lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, adding freshness to every layer.
White wine contributes a touch of acidity and helps balance the richness of the cheese and cream. If you’re avoiding alcohol, a splash of chicken broth with a teaspoon of white wine vinegar can be a great substitute.
Adding these element
s to your shrimp and lobster not only enhances their natural flavors but also ties together the various components of your lasagna. This attention to detail ensures that each bite offers a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and seafood goodness.Once your filling is prepared, you’re ready for the next step: assembling the layers like a pro.
Assembling the Seafood Lasagna Like a Pro
Layering Techniques for Even Cooking
The beauty of a great Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab lies in its layers. Each bite should deliver creamy sauce, tender seafood, and perfectly cooked pasta in harmony. Mastering the layering process is key to achieving that.
Start by spreading a
thin layer of the cream sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents sticking and creates a moist foundation for the noodles. Lay down the first sheet of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping them. Next, evenly spread half of the ricotta mixture across the noodles, followed by half the sautéed shrimp, crab, and lobster filling. Sprinkle with mozzarella to create a gooey, cheesy layer.Repeat this process: noodles, ricotta, seafood, mozzarella, and cream sauce until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cream sauce and a final sprinkle of mozzarella on top. This method ensures that every layer of your Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab bakes evenly and melds into a cohesive, indulgent dish.

Balancing Cheese, Seafood, and Sauce
Balance is everything when building Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp and Crab. Too much cheese can overwhelm the delicate flavors of shrimp and crab, while too little sauce can lead to dry, uneven layers. Aim for even proportions—roughly equal parts ricotta, seafood, and sauce between layers.
A sprinkle of Parmes
an between layers adds a nutty undertone that elevates the dish without overshadowing the fresh seafood. As you layer, gently press down to remove air pockets and create a compact lasagna that holds its shape when sliced.One common question is, Can you mix shrimp and crab in lasagna? Absolutely. The combination of sweet crab and tender shrimp brings complexity and texture, making each bite a little different and a lot more exciting.
Once assembled, your lasagna is ready for the oven—a step that transforms these layers into bubbling, golden perfection.