Creamy Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups – Easy Seafood Lasagna Bake Recipe

If you’ve ever wished your favorite seafood Alfredo pasta could magically turn into a cozy baked lasagna, these Creamy Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups will make your day. They take everything people love about a classic white-sauce seafood dish—the creaminess, the cheesy comfort, the delicate seafood flavor—and wrap it all into soft lasagna noodles that bake up beautifully. It’s the kind of recipe that looks fancy enough for guests, yet it’s simple enough for a weeknight when you want something special without fuss.

You’re basically getting the best of three worlds here: rich Alfredo, tender shrimp, and sweet crab, all rolled up into creamy, cheesy bundles of joy. And because everything is portioned into neat little rolls, serving feels effortless. While it sounds impressive, it stays surprisingly beginner-friendly with simple steps and pantry staples. So, let’s dig into what makes this seafood lasagna bake such a comfort-food dream.

What Makes Creamy Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups So Delicious

The Comfort of Seafood Alfredo in Lasagna Form

Turning Alfredo into a roll-up dish adds layers of comfort without complicating things. Seafood Alfredo already brings a cozy, creamy feel, but wrapping it in lasagna noodles makes it even more satisfying. The Alfredo sauce clings to every fold of the noodles, so each bite feels extra rich. Because you’re rolling instead of stacking, the flavors blend more evenly, and the seafood stays tucked inside the sauce instead of drying out on top.

The combination of the soft pasta, the tender shrimp, and the creamy crab filling gives these roll-ups that “comfort food without being heavy” balance. It’s warm, it’s indulgent, and it comes together in a way that appeals to both seafood lovers and Alfredo fans looking for something new.

Why Shrimp and Crab Work Perfectly Together

Shrimp and crab complement each other in a way that adds both texture and flavor variety. Shrimp brings a juicy bite and a mildly sweet flavor, while crab offers a softer, buttery richness that melts right into the Alfredo sauce. When combined, you get a filling that’s flavorful but not overwhelming.

Crab blends into the sauce, boosting creaminess, while shrimp stays firm enough to add contrast. This balance helps the roll-ups feel hearty without being overly seafood-forward. It’s a classic pairing that gives the dish a more elevated feel, even though the steps are simple.

Both types of seafood also cook quickly, which keeps the recipe convenient and beginner-friendly. Because of this, the roll-ups don’t require long baking times, and the seafood stays tender rather than rubbery. The result is a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—even though you didn’t.

Ingredients for Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups

Key Ingredients for the Seafood Filling

The filling for these seafood roll-ups is simple, creamy, and easy to assemble, yet it tastes like something you’d find on a restaurant menu. Using a combination of shrimp and crab helps create a rich texture that stays tender during baking. Because both seafoods cook quickly, they blend smoothly into the Alfredo mixture without becoming dry or rubbery.

Below is a helpful table that outlines the core ingredients for the filling and why each one matters:

Because the recipe is beginner-friendly, you can easily use pre-cooked shrimp or canned crab if fresh isn’t available. The cheese trio—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—creates the creamy foundation that makes each roll feel indulgent. These pantry-style ingredients help keep the recipe budget-friendly while still offering a restaurant-style flavor.

Alfredo Sauce Ingredients and Suggested Substitutions

The Alfredo sauce is the heart of the dish. It ties everything together and keeps the roll-ups moist during baking. While you can use jarred Alfredo in a pinch, a quick homemade version tastes fresher and gives the roll-ups a silkier texture.

Here’s what you’ll need for a creamy, smooth Alfredo sauce:

Because some readers like flexibility, here are simple substitutions that keep the same texture:

Substitution Ideas:

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Replace Parmesan with a mix of Parmesan and Romano for sharper flavor.
• Swap garlic powder for fresh garlic if you love a stronger garlic kick.
• Add a splash of apple cider if you want a mild acidity similar to wine without using alcohol.
• For a slightly smoky twist, sprinkle a little smoked paprika into the sauce.

The goal is a creamy sauce that coats the noodles and blends seamlessly with the shrimp and crab. With these ingredients, you’ll have a smooth, rich Alfredo that’s perfect for rolling and baking.

How to Make Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Filling, Sauce, and Roll-Ups

This dish looks elegant, but the steps are surprisingly simple. By breaking everything down into smaller parts—filling, sauce, and rolling—you’ll get a smooth, stress-free cooking experience. Even if you’ve never made roll-ups before, this method keeps things clear and doable.

1. Prepare the Seafood Filling
Start by chopping the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the shrimp to a large mixing bowl, then fold in the crab meat. Once the seafood is combined, add the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed. Because crab is delicate, try not to mash it too much. The goal is to keep some tender pieces intact so the filling has texture.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and stir until the mixture begins to warm. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan, letting it melt gradually so the sauce stays smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth until it reaches the consistency you prefer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, then remove it from the heat.

3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles until they’re just a little softer than al dente. They should bend easily without breaking. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a lightly oiled sheet pan to prevent sticking.

4. Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and keeps the noodles tender. Take one lasagna noodle and spread a generous spoonful of the seafood filling down its length. Don’t overfill, or it will push out when you roll. Starting at one end, roll the noodle gently into a loose spiral. Place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles.

5. Add the Sauce
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the roll-ups. Make sure each roll is fully coated so they stay moist during baking. Top with a sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan if you want extra cheese.

6. Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–12 minutes, or until the top starts to bubble and the edges turn lightly golden.

7. Let the Dish Rest
Once baked, let the roll-ups rest for 5–10 minutes. This small pause helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes the rolls easier to serve without falling apart.

Baking Tips for Even Heating and Creamy Texture

Because this dish has a delicate seafood filling, even cooking is key. A few simple steps make a big difference:

• Keep the baking dish evenly filled. If there are gaps, the roll-ups may tilt or dry out in those areas.
• Avoid overcooking. Shrimp and crab cook fast, so sticking to the baking time keeps them tender.
• Use extra sauce if needed. If your Alfredo becomes thick as it cools, thin it with a splash of broth before pouring it over the roll-ups.
• Cover for most of the bake. This traps steam and keeps the roll-ups creamy instead of crusty.
• Letting them rest is essential. It helps the Alfredo settle into the noodles and gives the dish a cleaner finish.

With these easy steps, you’ll end up with roll-ups that hold together beautifully and taste rich and comforting from the very first bite.

Expert Tips for the Best Seafood Lasagna Roll-Ups

Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Shrimp and Crab

Seafood can be delicate, but with a few simple tricks, your shrimp and crab will taste tender, fresh, and perfectly cooked every time. Many home cooks overthink the seafood part, yet the key is actually keeping things simple and gentle.

Don’t overcook the shrimp.
Shrimp cooks incredibly fast. If you use pre-cooked shrimp, avoid heating it too long in the sauce or baking process. Add it directly to the filling and let the oven gently warm it. If using raw shrimp, cook it just until it turns pink—usually 2 to 3 minutes. Anything longer can cause rubbery textures that take away from the creamy roll-ups.

Avoid using too much salt.
Seafood already has a naturally briny flavor. Adding too much salt to the filling or Alfredo sauce can overwhelm that delicate sweetness. Taste as you go, especially when adding Parmesan, since it contributes saltiness.

Don’t shred crab meat too finely.
Crab has a buttery feel that melts into the sauce. If you break it up too much, you may lose the soft, flaky texture that makes the dish special. Mix gently and stop once it’s evenly distributed.

Keep ingredients dry before mixing.
Excess moisture from thawed shrimp or crab can thin the filling. Pat seafood dry with paper towels before adding it to the cheese mixture to keep the filling sturdy and creamy.

Tips for Perfectly Rolled and Baked Lasagna Noodles

A smooth, pretty roll-up starts long before it reaches the oven. With these straightforward tips, you’ll get sturdy rolls that don’t unravel and bake evenly.

Cook the noodles to flexible but firm.
Boil the noodles just until they’re soft enough to bend easily but still hold their shape. Overcooked noodles tear when rolled, making assembly messy. Slightly firm noodles give you neat, tight rolls.

Lay noodles flat after cooking.
Place cooked noodles on a lightly oiled baking sheet in a single layer. This keeps them from sticking together and tearing when you’re ready to fill them.

Spread filling evenly.
A thin, consistent layer of filling rolls more easily than large dollops. Too much filling will squeeze out the sides and prevent the rolls from staying tight.

Roll gently, not tightly.
If you roll too tightly, the filling bursts out. If you roll too loosely, the rolls fall apart. A soft, even roll is the sweet spot that holds everything together.

Coat generously with sauce before baking.
Alfredo sauce acts like a protective barrier. It prevents the pasta from drying out and keeps the filling creamy. Make sure every roll-up is covered, especially the edges.

Bake covered at first.
Covering the dish lets steam work its magic, ensuring the roll-ups stay moist. Uncovering near the end creates light browning without drying out the seafood.

These practical tips keep the recipe beginner-friendly while ensuring that your roll-ups come out looking polished and tasting rich and creamy. Even if it’s your first time making a seafood bake, these techniques help you achieve a smooth, restaurant-quality finish at home.

Variations & Creative Twists

Swap Suggestions for Seafood, Cheese, and Alfredo

One of the best things about these seafood roll-ups is how easily you can adapt them to your taste or what you already have in your kitchen. The base recipe is creamy, comforting, and flexible, so small changes can create new flavors without adding work.

Seafood Variations:

• Swap shrimp for scallops (chopped into small pieces). They give a sweet, tender bite that blends beautifully with Alfredo.
• Use imitation crab if real crab isn’t available. It still gives a smooth, mild seafood flavor and works well in creamy dishes.
• Add cooked white fish like cod or tilapia for extra protein. Flake it gently and fold it into the filling.
• Use all shrimp or all crab if you prefer simplicity. Either option still results in a rich, flavorful roll-up.

Cheese Variations:

• Replace mozzarella with provolone for a mellow but slightly deeper cheesy flavor.
• Mix in Asiago with the Parmesan for a sharper, more savory finish.
• Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta if you want a lighter, slightly less creamy center.

Alfredo Sauce Variations:

• Use half heavy cream and half milk for a lighter sauce.
• Add cream cheese (2–3 tablespoons) for a thicker, richer sauce with extra body.
• Stir in a splash of apple cider for gentle acidity that balances the creaminess without using any wine.
• Combine Parmesan with Romano cheese for a sharper edge that cuts through the creamy seafood.

These easy swaps help adjust the dish to your taste while keeping the comforting, velvety feel of the original recipe.

Flavor Add-Ins for Extra Creaminess or Spice

If you love bold flavors or want to give the dish a little personality, there are plenty of cozy, simple additions that work beautifully with shrimp, crab, and Alfredo.

For Extra Creaminess:

• Add a dollop of mascarpone to the filling for a silkier texture.
• Mix in a small scoop of sour cream for tangy smoothness.
• Stir an extra ¼ cup of mozzarella into the filling if you want a cheesier, stretchier center.

For a Touch of Spice:

• Sprinkle in Old Bay seasoning for a seafood-friendly warmth.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat that balances nicely with the creamy sauce.
• Mix Cajun seasoning into the filling for a bolder, Southern-inspired twist.

For Extra Flavor Depth:

• Add fresh chopped parsley or basil for brightness.
• Mix in sauteed spinach for a gentle earthiness that blends with the Alfredo.
• Stir in caramelized onions for natural sweetness.

These add-ins let you tailor your roll-ups to be richer, spicier, or more vibrant without making the recipe any harder. Each twist keeps the dish feeling cozy, homemade, and full of comforting flavors.

FAQs About Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups

Do I Have to Use Both Shrimp and Crab?

No! You can use just shrimp or just crab if you prefer. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful. Shrimp adds a firmer texture, while crab brings a softer, buttery richness. Using both together creates a balanced seafood filling, but either works well on its own.

Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?

Absolutely. No-boil noodles can save time, but make sure they’re fully covered with sauce to ensure they soften during baking. If using regular boiled noodles, cook them just until slightly underdone so they roll easily without tearing.

How Do I Keep Roll-Ups from Falling Apart?

• Don’t overfill the noodles; a thin layer of filling rolls better.
• Roll gently, not too tight, so the pasta holds together.
• Coat each roll generously with Alfredo sauce before baking; the sauce acts like glue to keep everything intact.
• Let the baked dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, prepare them completely, bake, cool, and store in the fridge for reheating later. Freezing is also possible if done before baking—just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Can I Use Other Cheeses in the Filling?

Yes. While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan work best, you can mix in provolone, Asiago, or even cottage cheese for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses blend more easily, while harder cheeses add extra savory depth.

What Side Dishes Go Best with This Dish?

Fresh vegetables, crisp salads, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes are excellent pairings. You can also add a splash of lemon on the side to brighten the seafood flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups are the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. With tender shrimp, sweet crab, and a luscious Alfredo sauce, each bite feels indulgent without being complicated to make. This dish is ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy weeknight when you want a restaurant-quality seafood meal at home.

Creamy Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups

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• Author: David Tag
• Total Time: 55 minutes

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Description

Indulge in creamy, cheesy Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Roll-Ups! Tender shrimp and crab wrapped in lasagna noodles with rich Alfredo sauce make this dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Beginner-friendly, flexible, and baked to golden perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped

• 1 cup lump crab meat

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 8–10 lasagna noodles, cooked

• 4 tbsp butter

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• ¾ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Optional: ⅓ cup chicken broth for thinner sauce

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Instructions

• Prepare the seafood filling by mixing shrimp, crab, cheeses, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper.

• Make the Alfredo sauce: melt butter, whisk in cream and Parmesan, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Thin with broth if needed.

• Cook noodles until slightly underdone; lay flat on an oiled sheet pan.

• Spread filling on each noodle and roll gently; place seam-side down in a baking dish.

• Pour remaining Alfredo over rolls; top with mozzarella if desired.

• Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake 10–12 more minutes until bubbly.

• Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for 2–3 days; freeze before baking for up to 2 months.

Adjust seafood, cheese, and seasoning to your taste.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4–6