Why Make This Recipe
Crab Lasagne is a delightful twist on the classic lasagne, adding rich seafood flavors that elevate this comfort food into something special. It offers a unique combination of sweetness from the crabmeat and freshness from herbs, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. The layers of pasta, ragu, and creamy béchamel create a satisfying meal that anyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests with something a little different!
How to Make Crab Lasagne
Ingredients:
- Lasagne sheets
- Brown crabmeat
- White crabmeat
- Tomatoes
- Shallots
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Lemon zest
- Fresh dill
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté shallots until translucent.
- Add diced tomatoes and cook to create a ragu, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the brown crabmeat and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- In another saucepan, melt butter for the béchamel. Add flour and whisk to form a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
- Fold in the white crabmeat, lemon zest, and dill into the béchamel.
- In a baking dish, layer ragu, lasagne sheets, and béchamel until the dish is full, finishing with béchamel on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Crab Lasagne
Serve Crab Lasagne hot out of the oven. It pairs well with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh dill on top before serving. Enjoy each layer of creamy béchamel and savory crab!
How to Store Crab Lasagne
If you have leftovers, let the Crab Lasagne cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Crab Lasagne
- For best results, use fresh crabmeat if possible. It enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Make sure to season each component, especially the ragu, to really bring out the taste.
- You can prepare the ragu and béchamel ahead of time, making assembly quicker.
Variation
You can mix in some sautéed spinach or cheese into the layers if you want to add more flavor or texture. Additionally, for a spicy kick, include some red pepper flakes in the ragu.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned crabmeat?
Yes, you can! Canned crabmeat is a convenient option and still works well in this recipe.
2. How long does it take to make Crab Lasagne?
The total time is about 1 hour, including preparation and baking.
3. Can I freeze Crab Lasagne?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to two months. Bake it directly from frozen, adding some extra cooking time.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to warm it through without drying it out.
