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.
🧾 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
🧑🍳 Instructions & Method:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, chives, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Gently fold in the crab meat until well combined.
- Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of the Parmesan sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Lay out cooked lasagna noodles on a clean surface. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of crab mixture onto each noodle and spread evenly.
- Carefully roll each noodle into a log and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining Parmesan sauce over the roll-ups.
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
🥂 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.
🍴 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.