Description
Creamy Seafood Lasagna
“Rich, cheesy, and packed with tender shrimp—this creamy seafood lasagna is the ultimate comfort food!”
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
For Assembly:
9 lasagna noodles, cooked
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add shrimp and garlic, cooking until shrimp turn pink.
Remove from heat and chop shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
Gradually add heavy cream and broth, stirring continuously.
Add Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.
Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the chopped shrimp.
Assemble the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
Layer lasagna noodles, seafood filling, and sauce. Repeat until all layers are used.
Top with mozzarella cheese.
Bake to Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Let it rest for 10 minutes, then serve! Enjoy the cheesy, seafood goodness!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect lasagna. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: cook noodles al dente, chop shrimp after sautéing, and grate cheeses. For the sauce, a smooth roux is key—whisk the flour into melted butter for a full minute before slowly adding liquids to prevent lumps. When assembling, use a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start with sauce, then noodles, then the shrimp-cheese mixture, repeating. The final layer should be noodles, a generous coat of the remaining cream sauce, and the topping mozzarella. This structure ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with light, acidic sides to cut through the creaminess. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or simple steamed green beans with garlic. For a heartier meal, add crusty garlic bread. A chilled, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood perfectly.
How-to Summary
In brief: Sauté shrimp with garlic. Make a creamy Parmesan sauce by creating a roux and whisking in cream and broth. Mix ricotta, cheeses, herbs, and the chopped shrimp for the filling. In a dish, layer sauce, noodles, and filling. Top with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat dry to avoid excess water.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time.
Can I add other seafood? Certainly. Drained canned crab or cooked scallops are excellent additions. Avoid oily fish.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave.
Why let the lasagna rest? Resting allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut clean slices and preventing a runny texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Sauté just until pink to keep them tender, as they will cook further in the oven.
- Lumpy Sauce: Add cream and broth gradually while whisking constantly over medium heat.
- Soggy Noodles: Use noodles cooked al dente and ensure your sauce is adequately thickened.
- Skimping on Resting Time: Cutting immediately causes the lasagna to fall apart. Patience is key.
Conclusion
This creamy seafood lasagna is a show-stopping dish that transforms simple ingredients into luxurious comfort food. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly layered, bubbly, and flavorful masterpiece. It’s ideal for special occasions or a decadent family dinner. Enjoy the process and the delicious, cheesy, seafood-packed results!