Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab Dinner
Introduction
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with our Seafood Lasagna. This dish combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp and crab with the rich, creamy texture of a classic lasagna. Perfect for those seeking a gourmet experience at home, this easy seafood lasagna recipe with crab will elevate your dinner game to new heights.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This Seafood Lasagna is the ideal choice for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that works well for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. The combination of seafood and traditional Italian flavors creates a unique fusion that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests asking for more.
Ingredients List
◾ 9 lasagna noodles
◾ 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
◾ 1 pound lump crab meat
◾ 2 cups ricotta cheese
◾ 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
◾ 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
◾ 2 cups heavy cream
◾ 1/4 cup butter
◾ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 1 teaspoon dried basil
◾ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Begin by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside. This is the foundation of our Seafood Lasagna, so ensure they’re cooked perfectly.
Step 2: Create the Seafood Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the shrimp and crab meat. Be careful not to break up the crab too much – we want those luscious chunks in our lasagna. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Add the dried basil and oregano, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and fold in the ricotta cheese until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce. Layer three lasagna noodles, followed by a third of the seafood mixture, a third of the remaining cheese sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat this layering twice more, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Nutritional Information
This Seafood Lasagna is rich in protein from the shrimp and crab, and calcium from the cheese. However, it’s also high in calories and fat due to the creamy sauce and cheese.
Calories per Person
Approximately 650-700 calories per serving.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this dish lighter, consider using low-fat cheese and milk instead of heavy cream. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach or zucchini between the layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Seafood Lasagna with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine. A slice of garlic bread on the side complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the seafood, as it can become tough. Also, don’t skip the resting time after baking – this helps the lasagna hold its shape when served.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover Seafood Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from chilled.
Is it possible to freeze this Seafood Lasagna?
While possible, freezing may affect the texture of the seafood. If you choose to freeze, do so before baking and thaw completely before cooking.
Conclusion
This Seafood Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings the flavors of the ocean to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this dish is sure to impress. So, don your apron and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Contact Us
Contact us at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
