If you’re looking to elevate your dinner plans with a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Seafood Lasagna Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine layers of tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and delicate scallops nestled between creamy ricotta and perfectly cooked noodles, all smothered in a luscious white sauce that bakes to bubbly golden perfection. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a night when you want to treat yourself, this seafood lasagna delivers on elegance and flavor with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the flavors just right starts with simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. From the rich seafood components to the creamy cheeses and aromatic seasonings, every item plays a key role in creating the luxurious texture and taste of this seafood lasagna.

Lasagna noodles (9): Use either regular or oven-ready noodles for ease, making sure they cook perfectly tender for layering.
Butter (2 Tbsp plus 3 Tbsp): Adds richness to both the seafood skillet and the creamy white sauce.
Olive oil (2 Tbsp): Provides a smooth base to sauté garlic and onions without overpowering the seafood.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the dish with its signature savory aroma—don’t skip!
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Gives a gentle sweetness and lovely depth to the seafood mixture.
Shrimp (8 oz, peeled, deveined, chopped): Adds tender, succulent bites bursting with ocean flavor.
Scallops (8 oz, chopped): Their buttery texture enriches every layer; if unavailable, extra shrimp work great.
Lump crab meat (8 oz, drained): Sweet and flaky, crab brings an elegant seafood variety that makes this dish special.
Salt (1 tsp): Highlights all the flavors beautifully—season carefully for best results.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a subtle kick and balances the creamy sauce and seafood.
Dried basil (½ tsp): Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements the seafood perfectly.
Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional): For those who love a hint of heat to contrast the richness.
Ricotta cheese (15 oz): Creamy and smooth, it provides luscious texture and mild flavor in the layers.
Egg (1): Binds the ricotta mixture so it sets nicely when baked.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, indulgent finish on top and between layers.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty crust that enhances every mouthful.
All-purpose flour (3 Tbsp): Essential for creating the roux base of that silky white sauce.
Whole milk (2 cups): Brings creaminess and richness to the sauce’s velvety texture.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Elevates the sauce’s lush mouthfeel for ultimate indulgence.
Nutmeg (¼ tsp): A subtle hint that adds warmth and complexity to the white sauce.

How to Make Seafood Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Seafood

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so everything is ready to bake when you finish assembling. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set them aside. While they cool slightly, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent—about two minutes—the perfect fragrant base. Toss in the chopped shrimp and scallops, cooking just until they turn opaque, roughly three to four minutes, to keep them tender and juicy. Stir in the crab meat, salt, black pepper, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Once everything is combined and warmed through, remove the skillet from heat—this savory mixture is ready to shine in your lasagna layers.

Step 2: Whip Up the Silky White Sauce

The secret behind this Seafood Lasagna Recipe’s luscious texture is a homemade white sauce. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook it for a minute or two, which helps eliminate any raw flour taste and thickens the final sauce. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is perfectly smooth. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Flavor it with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to awaken the palate with subtle warmth and seasoning that complements the seafood without overpowering it.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a small bowl, blend the ricotta cheese with one egg. The egg helps the cheese set beautifully in the oven, creating creamy but firm layers that won’t run when sliced. This simple mixture adds both flavor and structure to your lasagna, balancing the richness of the seafood and white sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom to keep noodles moist and flavorful. Lay down three noodles followed by half the ricotta mixture, then half the seafood mixture. Spoon a third of the white sauce over this layer and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process with noodles, ricotta, seafood, white sauce, and mozzarella. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped generously with the remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, which will create the irresistible golden crust once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The aromas filling your kitchen at this stage are simply irresistible. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking—this little patience pays off by helping it set for cleaner, more elegant slices.

How to Serve Seafood Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

Adding just the right garnish can elevate your seafood lasagna presentation and flavor. Freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves not only add a pop of vibrant green but also brighten the creamy richness with their fresh herbal notes. A light drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil or a few thin lemon zest strips can introduce a refreshing citrus zing that balances the creamy seafood layers beautifully.

Side Dishes

This seafood lasagna is rich and satisfying enough that it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. A crisp green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette refreshes the palate, and roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables add contrasting texture and color. Garlic bread sticks or a crusty baguette are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate, making the meal feel even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, consider baking the Seafood Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for personal servings that feel extra special. Layering in clear glass dishes can show off the beautiful strata of pasta, seafood, and cheese, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. You could also sprinkle the top with a little extra Parmesan and broil for the last minute to get a golden, crispy cheese crust that’s simply irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover seafood lasagna tastes just as delightful the next day. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually tend to deepen overnight, making every bite even more satisfying. Simply reheat gently for best results.

Freezing

If you want to keep this Seafood Lasagna Recipe on hand for busy nights, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the assembled, unbaked lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, adding a little extra time if needed for thorough heating.

Reheating

To retain the creamy texture and avoid drying out, reheat your lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave for quick reheats, but cover it to trap steam and keep the pasta moist. A splash of milk over the slice before warming can help refresh the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

Can I substitute other seafood for shrimp and scallops?

Absolutely! This Seafood Lasagna Recipe is very flexible. You can use crab, lobster, mussels, or even firm white fish like cod or halibut. Just adjust cooking times slightly to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.

Is it necessary to make the white sauce from scratch?

While you can use a pre-made white sauce or Alfredo sauce in a pinch, making your own roux-based white sauce adds a richer, fresher flavor and the perfect consistency that complements the seafood without being too heavy.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This particular recipe centers on seafood, but you could adapt it by swapping the seafood for a mixture of mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes to create a delicious vegetarian version with similar creamy layers.

How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?

Look for bubbling sauce around the edges and a golden-brown top crust. The lasagna should be hot all the way through and the cheese melted and slightly crisped on top. A 10-minute resting period helps it set for neat slicing.

Can I prepare the Seafood Lasagna Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the entire lasagna up to 24 hours ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Seafood Lasagna Recipe is truly a celebration of the sea’s finest flavors wrapped in creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that turns any meal into a special occasion, perfect for sharing with family or friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how wonderfully comforting and elegant seafood can be inside tender layers of lasagna. Dive in, savor every bite, and enjoy the delicious memories you’ll create!