Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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Introduction:

These Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups are a luxurious twist on traditional lasagna, featuring sweet fresh crab meat, tender pasta sheets, and a rich creamy Parmesan sauce. Each roll-up is filled with a savory mixture of crab, ricotta, herbs, and lemon zest, then smothered in a velvety white sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party but comforting enough for a cozy night in.

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🧾 Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Pasta:

• 9–12 lasagna noodles, cooked until al dente
• Extra Parmesan and parsley for topping

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions & Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, chives, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Gently fold in the crab meat until well combined.
3. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream, stirring to avoid lumps.
4. Cook for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread a thin layer of the Parmesan sauce on the bottom of the dish.
3. Lay out cooked lasagna noodles on a clean surface. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of crab mixture onto each noodle and spread evenly.
4. Carefully roll each noodle into a log and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining Parmesan sauce over the roll-ups.
6. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese.

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Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
3. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

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🥂 Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus.
• Pair with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

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🍴 Tips:

• You can use oven-ready lasagna sheets, but pre-cooked noodles are easier to roll.
• Substitute some of the crab with chopped shrimp or scallops for a mixed seafood version.
• Want to make ahead? Assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

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