If you’re on the hunt for a dish that perfectly blends the delicate flavors of the ocean with rich, velvety cheese, you have to try this Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe. It’s an irresistible layering of tender shrimp, succulent scallops, and sweet crab meat, all wrapped in smooth cream cheese and Parmesan-infused sauce that bakes to bubbly, golden perfection. Each bite delivers a comforting yet elegant experience that makes this lasagna stand out from the usual tomato-based casseroles. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weekend family dinner, this recipe brings warmth and a splash of gourmet right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering quality ingredients is the first step toward creating a memorable seafood lasagna. Each component is simple yet crucial—providing the right balance of flavor, texture, and color that elevate the dish to a cozy, refined feast.
- 12 lasagna noodles: The foundation, offering perfect layers to hold all the cheesy seafood goodness together.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds tender, mildly sweet seafood flavor that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- 1/2 lb scallops, halved: Gives a silky texture and subtle ocean taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup crab meat: Brings a sweet, flaky dimension that makes the seafood mix extra special.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The secret to that luscious, creamy texture in the sauce that coats every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a sharp, nutty depth that enriches the sauce and the topping.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts to a gooey, stretchy layer that’s pure comfort food magic.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with bright, aromatic warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a smooth, indulgent base for the creamy cheese sauce.
- 4 tbsp butter: Provides richness and helps sauté the garlic and seafood to perfection.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped: Brings fresh herbal notes and a pop of color to finish the dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and baking dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter your baking dish generously to prevent sticking and to add a subtle richness to the edges of the lasagna. This foundational step sets the stage for a beautifully cooked, easy-to-serve lasagna later on.
Step 2: Sauté the garlic and seafood
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then toss in the minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant—this is where the magic starts, as the garlic infuses its irresistible aroma. Next, add the shrimp and halved scallops, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn opaque. Fold in the crab meat last, stirring gently to keep those delicate flakes intact. Once done, set the seafood mixture aside.
Step 3: Create the creamy cheese sauce
In the same skillet, soften the cream cheese over low heat. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce becomes silky and smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a luxurious sauce. This creamy blend is what turns the layers of your Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe into a decadently rich masterpiece.
Step 4: Assemble the lasagna layers
Begin by spreading a thin coating of the creamy sauce at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Layer your cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spoon some of the seafood mixture on top, followed by more sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a top layer of sauce and cheeses to create that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to bubbly perfection
Cover your assembled lasagna with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling. This final step allows the flavors to meld and creates that signature lasagna texture that everyone craves.
Step 6: Rest and garnish
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it helps the layers set, making slicing clean and easy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a hint of brightness and a gorgeous finishing touch.
How to Serve Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme make the perfect garnish to this creamy seafood masterpiece. They add a pop of vibrant color and subtle herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce, balancing each mouthful.
Side Dishes
To keep the meal exciting, serve your Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe alongside crisp green salads, steamed asparagus, or lemony roasted vegetables. These lighter sides complement the dense, cheesy flavors without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at a dinner party. Or add a drizzle of melted browned butter infused with garlic and herbs on the side to elevate the dish even further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover seafood lasagna to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days and actually tastes wonderful reheated, as the flavors continue to deepen.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Wrap the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture or seafood flavor.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, removing the foil toward the end to crisp the top. Microwaving works for quicker meals but can sacrifice some creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for the Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the seafood completely and pat it dry to avoid watery layers in the lasagna. Fresh seafood is ideal, but frozen works well if handled properly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Since this lasagna relies heavily on cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella, making a dairy-free version would require specialty substitutes like vegan cheeses and non-dairy cream. The texture and flavor will differ, but it can still be delicious!
Can I prepare this dish ahead and bake it later?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it well, and keep it refrigerated. When ready to enjoy, bake as directed, just adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What wine pairs best with Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe?
A crisp, refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creamy seafood flavors wonderfully, balancing richness with acidity.
Can I add other types of seafood?
Feel free to mix it up! Lobster, clams, or even firm-fleshed fish can be delicious additions or substitutes, just be mindful of cooking times to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about layering luscious seafood with creamy cheeses in a hot, bubbly lasagna. This Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe is the kind of dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite, sharing comfort and delight with those around you. Give it a try on your next dinner night—you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved favorite!
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Seafood Lasagna with Creamy Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy seafood lasagna features layers of tender lasagna noodles, succulent shrimp, scallops, and crab meat, all enveloped in a rich cream cheese and Parmesan sauce. Topped with mozzarella and baked to golden perfection, this dish offers a luxurious twist on the classic Italian favorite, perfect for special occasions or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb scallops, halved
- 1 cup crab meat
Pasta
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
Cheese and Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter
Flavorings and Herbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Sauté garlic: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook seafood: Add the peeled shrimp and halved scallops to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they turn opaque. Gently fold in the crab meat, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt the softened cream cheese over low heat. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream to create a smooth mixture, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Assemble lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom of the buttered baking dish. Arrange a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top, then add a layer of the seafood mixture, followed by more sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers, finishing with the sauce and remaining cheeses on top.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley or thyme and serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh seafood and make sure to drain excess liquid from crab meat before assembling.
- Cook lasagna noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- You can substitute thyme for parsley depending on your flavor preference.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest before serving helps it hold together better when sliced.
- Make sure to cover the dish while baking initially to prevent the top from drying out.
