If you love the rich creaminess of Alfredo combined with the delicate flavors of seafood, you’re in for a real treat with this Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe. It’s a comforting, elegant twist on classic lasagna that layers tender noodles with a luscious ricotta and cheese filling studded with succulent shrimp and lump crab meat. Every bite melds creamy Alfredo sauce with the subtly sweet seafood, creating a dish that feels fancy yet is surprisingly straightforward to make. Whether for a special family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress and delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each one plays an important role: the tender pasta for structure, the creamy cheeses for richness, fresh seafood for that touch of luxury, and herbs to brighten every bite.
- 8 lasagna noodles: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect base for rolling and holding the filling together without falling apart.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds just the right amount of fat to sauté shrimp and garlic, enhancing their natural flavors.
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped: Provides sweet, tender bites throughout the roll-ups.
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained): Offers a delicate briny flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives that classic, aromatic bite that lifts the seafood and sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling components.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder, ensuring the filling stays together when rolled and baked.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, savory depth that cuts through the richness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into gooey goodness, giving both creaminess inside and a golden crust on top.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade): The luscious sauce that bathes the roll-ups, tying every element together.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color at the end.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles and preheat oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your roll-ups are assembled. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente—meaning they’re tender but still have a bit of firmness. Drain them carefully to avoid breaking, then spread them flat on parchment paper or foil to cool without sticking. This step sets the stage for perfectly shaped rolls.
Step 2: Cook the shrimp and garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic. Let it gently sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, before tossing in the chopped shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright pink and are just cooked through—overcooking will make them rubbery. Remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly so they won’t make the filling too wet.
Step 3: Mix the filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, half the mozzarella, shrimp, crab meat, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently fold everything together, keeping the seafood pieces intact but evenly distributed. This rich, creamy filling is the heart of your Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe, so don’t rush this step.
Step 4: Assemble the roll-ups
Spread a generous layer, about one-third, of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—this prevents sticking and adds moisture during baking. Lay out a cooked lasagna noodle and spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the seafood filling along its length. Carefully roll the noodle up tightly from one end to the other, then place each roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with all noodles and filling.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the assembled roll-ups and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an extra 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. Let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes before serving; resting helps the filling set and makes cutting easier.
How to Serve Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top adds a lovely color contrast and fresh herbal brightness. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of lemon juice or a little lemon zest compliments the seafood’s natural flavors beautifully and elevates the dish.
Side Dishes
This decadent seafood-filled lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are perfect for soaking up every creamy, cheesy bit left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, consider plating individual roll-ups on pretty plates, garnished with parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. You can also bake the roll-ups in mini casserole dishes for hassle-free individual portions—perfect for entertaining guests without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this indulgent dish a second time without losing any flavor or texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully before baking. Assemble the roll-ups as directed, cover the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Allow about 20 minutes, checking to ensure the center of the roll-ups is hot. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating, but the oven helps maintain the delightful melty texture and golden top.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and drain any frozen seafood before use to avoid excess water in your filling, which could make the roll-ups soggy.
Is it better to use store-bought Alfredo sauce or homemade?
Both work well depending on your time and preference. Store-bought Alfredo sauce is convenient and flavorful, but homemade sauce offers a fresher, creamier taste if you want to impress.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them for a few hours or freeze them before baking, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese blended smooth or even cream cheese for a different texture but still creamy and delicious filling.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking when rolling?
Make sure to spread them out flat on parchment or foil after boiling to cool and keep separate. Rolling them while they’re warm but not too hot also helps avoid tearing or sticking.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe if you’re craving something comforting with a touch of sophistication. It’s a perfect way to bring a little luxury to your dinner table without hours of fuss. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy seafood and pasta combined in creamy, cheesy harmony!
Print
Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delight in this decadent Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe, combining tender lasagna noodles with a creamy ricotta and seafood filling, all smothered in rich Alfredo sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking an impressive yet easy-to-make baked pasta dish.
Ingredients
Lasagna & Sauce
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seafood Filling
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Others
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and lay them flat on parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Shrimp and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped shrimp, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to prepare for mixing.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful seafood cheese filling.
- Assemble Base Sauce: Spread one-third of the Alfredo sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a flavorful base for the roll-ups.
- Fill and Roll Noodles: Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the seafood filling across each lasagna noodle evenly. Carefully roll each noodle tightly to encase the filling completely.
- Arrange Roll-Ups: Place each roll-up seam-side down in the prepared baking dish with the Alfredo sauce, arranging them snugly but without overlapping.
- Add Sauce and Cheese on Top: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the assembled roll-ups, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create a bubbly, cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese topping until golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy the rich, creamy seafood lasagna rolls.
Notes
- For a fresher taste, use fresh lump crab meat if available.
- You can substitute Alfredo sauce with homemade for a richer flavor.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness in the filling.
- Covering during the first baking prevents the cheese from burning while melting evenly.
- Resting the dish after baking helps the roll-ups hold their shape when served.
