Seafood Lasagna is a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food. Featuring layers of creamy white sauce, tender shrimp, scallops, and imitation crab, it’s a show-stopping dish perfect for a family dinner or an elegant gathering.
This dish combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the delicate flavors of seafood, resulting in a meal that’s indulgent without being overly heavy. Pair it with a crisp salad or roasted asparagus for a complete, unforgettable dining experience.
Full Recipe:
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons + 1/2 cup butter, divided
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 bottle (8 ounces) clam juice
- 1 pound bay scallops
- 1 pound uncooked shrimp (41-50 per pound), peeled and deveined
- 1 package (8 ounces) imitation crabmeat, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, divided
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 cups 2% milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
Directions:
- Prepare the Seafood Mixture:
- Heat canola oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet. Sauté the onion until tender. Add chicken broth and clam juice, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Add scallops, shrimp, crab, and 1/8 teaspoon of white pepper. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque. Drain the seafood, reserving the cooking liquid.
- Make the White Sauce:
- Melt remaining butter in a large saucepan. Stir in flour until smooth. Combine milk with the reserved cooking liquid and gradually whisk into the saucepan. Add salt and the remaining white pepper.
- Boil while stirring for 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cream and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Mix 3/4 cup of the sauce into the seafood mixture.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread 1/2 cup white sauce in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Layer with 3 noodles, half of the seafood mixture, and 1-1/4 cups of sauce. Repeat layers. Top with remaining noodles, sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until golden brown. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional green onions and Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 35 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 75 minutes
Kcal: 367 per serving | Servings: 12
Exploring the Luxurious Delight of Seafood Lasagna
Seafood lasagna is a sumptuous twist on the traditional Italian classic, offering a unique way to incorporate fresh seafood into a dish typically associated with hearty red sauces and robust meats. This version, featuring a creamy white sauce and layers of tender seafood, stands out as a versatile dish suitable for both special occasions and cozy family dinners. Its complex flavors and indulgent textures make it a crown jewel in any home cook’s repertoire.
The Allure of Seafood in Comfort Cuisine
Combining seafood with dairy might seem unconventional to some, but it has become a celebrated pairing in culinary traditions worldwide. From the creamy richness of New England clam chowder to the velvety decadence of lobster thermidor, seafood and creamy elements create a perfect harmony. Seafood lasagna joins this esteemed family of dishes by marrying shellfish and crab with a delicate white sauce, elevating the comforting appeal of lasagna to a gourmet experience.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition with Modern Appeal
Lasagna has always been a dish of layers—not just in its physical composition but also in its cultural significance. Traditional lasagna features layers of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella. This seafood version draws inspiration from Italian culinary traditions while embracing modern preferences for lighter, more refined flavors. By swapping red sauce for a creamy béchamel and beef for an assortment of shellfish, seafood lasagna feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
The Beauty of Layering Flavors
One of the most appealing aspects of seafood lasagna is the way it layers distinct textures and tastes. Each forkful offers a combination of the tender chewiness of shrimp, the delicate sweetness of scallops, and the mild richness of crabmeat. These seafood elements are enveloped in a creamy white sauce infused with the savory depth of clam juice and chicken broth. The result is a medley of flavors that unfold gracefully on the palate.
Perfect for Special Occasions
Seafood lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Its elegant presentation and sophisticated flavors make it an excellent choice for celebratory meals, holiday gatherings, or intimate dinner parties. The golden-brown Parmesan crust adds a touch of opulence, while the layered seafood filling ensures it’s as satisfying to eat as it is to look at. Pair it with a crisp white wine or champagne, and you have a dish that feels truly celebratory.
Adaptable to Personal Preferences
One of the great things about seafood lasagna is its adaptability. While this recipe features a combination of shrimp, scallops, and crabmeat, it’s easy to tailor the ingredients to your preferences or what you have on hand. Love shrimp but not a fan of scallops? Swap them out for chunks of lobster or even flaked salmon. Looking for a vegetarian twist? Substitute the seafood with a medley of spinach, mushrooms, and artichokes for a creamy vegetable lasagna.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Seafood Lasagna
Creating the perfect seafood lasagna requires attention to detail, particularly when handling the seafood. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Choose Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Seafood:
Fresh seafood adds an unparalleled flavor to the dish, but high-quality frozen options can be just as good. Thaw frozen seafood thoroughly and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture. - Don’t Overcook the Seafood:
Since the seafood will continue cooking during baking, it’s essential to slightly undercook it during the initial sautéing stage. This ensures that it remains tender and juicy after baking. - Let the Lasagna Rest:
Allowing the lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking is crucial. This resting period lets the layers set, preventing a runny mess when slicing and serving. - Experiment with Cheeses:
While Parmesan is the star of this recipe, consider adding Gruyère or Romano for an extra layer of complexity. These cheeses complement the seafood beautifully without overpowering the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Seafood lasagna is a rich dish, so pairing it with lighter sides helps to balance the meal. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a perfect accompaniment, cutting through the creaminess of the lasagna. Garlic bread or a warm baguette provides a satisfying contrast in texture, while roasted asparagus or steamed green beans add a touch of brightness to the plate. For drinks, dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhance the seafood flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dish is as practical as it is delicious, offering several options for storage and preparation:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire pan in the oven.
- Freezing: Seafood lasagna freezes exceptionally well. You can freeze it either unbaked or fully cooked. If freezing unbaked, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Meal Prep: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious result.
Why Seafood Lasagna Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Collection
Seafood lasagna is a show-stopping dish that effortlessly combines the comforting elements of classic lasagna with the sophisticated allure of seafood. Its versatility, adaptability, and crowd-pleasing flavors make it a must-try recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat your family to something special, this dish delivers on all fronts.
Conclusion: An Elegant Take on a Beloved Classic
In the world of comfort food, lasagna reigns supreme. With its rich flavors and satisfying layers, it’s a dish that feels like a warm embrace. Seafood lasagna takes this beloved classic to new heights, offering a lighter, more elegant alternative that still delivers the indulgence we crave. Whether served at a festive gathering or a quiet family dinner, seafood lasagna is a dish that promises to delight and impress. Add it to your recipe repertoire, and watch it become a favorite for years to come.