Name: Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh lump crab meat (drained and picked over for shells); 1½ cups ricotta cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: pinch of Old Bay seasoning or cayenne for a subtle kick; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional); 8–10 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente; ¾ cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp butter, melted; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you have a soft spot for comforting, elegant pasta bakes, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. This unforgettable dish combines tender lasagna noodles with a delicate crab and ricotta filling, all swaddled in a silky, homemade parmesan cream sauce and topped with a bubbly, golden crust. It’s everything you love about classic Italian comfort food, but with a fresh ocean twist that will make any dinner feel like a special occasion.

Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe has been chosen to enhance flavor, texture, and that irresistible baked pasta appeal. Think of these as your building blocks—fresh, vibrant, and simple, yet working together to create something genuinely magical.

Fresh lump crab meat: The sweet, juicy star of the show—be sure it’s drained well and check thoroughly for any leftover shells.
Ricotta cheese: This lends unbeatable creaminess and helps the filling hold together beautifully.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to both the filling and the luscious sauce.
Shredded mozzarella: For that signature gooey, stretchy bite—both in the filling and on top.
Egg: Lightly beaten to help bind the filling and enrich the flavor.
Green onions: Provide a gentle, fresh bite that balances the richness.
Garlic clove: Just a touch for subtle heat and aromatic flair.
Lemon juice: Brightens everything up and enhances the natural flavor of the crab.
Salt and black pepper: Essential to season every component to perfection.
Old Bay or cayenne (optional): Adds a little coastal zing if you’re in the mood for a kick.
Unsalted butter: Used in the velvety parmesan sauce and to give the panko topping extra crunch.
All-purpose flour: For the roux that thickens the sauce—it’s a classic béchamel move.
Whole milk or half-and-half: The base of our cream sauce; half-and-half is extra decadent, milk keeps things a bit lighter.
Panko breadcrumbs: These create a lovely, crispy topping—totally irresistible.
Lasagna noodles: Go for classic, not no-boil, cooked just until al dente so they hold up during rolling and baking.
Fresh parsley: Brings color and a pop of herbal freshness at the end.
Nutmeg (optional): A pinch in the sauce adds subtle warmth and elevates the creamy notes.
Lemon wedge (for serving): A final squeeze right before eating makes all the flavors sing.

How to Make Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Start by boiling your lasagna noodles in well-salted water until they’re just al dente. This ensures they won’t fall apart when rolling and baking. Once cooked, drain and lay them flat on parchment paper or a lightly oiled surface—this little step prevents sticking and makes assembling the roll-ups super easy.

Step 2: Make the Crab Filling

In a big bowl, gently combine your crab meat, ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella, egg, green onions, garlic, and that bright pop of lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Old Bay or cayenne if you like a gentle kick. Take care not to break up the crab too much; those larger, luscious pieces are part of what makes these Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce so special.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Melt your butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour to make a classic roux—let it bubble for a minute or so to cook out any raw taste. Gradually add your milk or half-and-half, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Off the heat, stir in the parmesan, season with salt and pepper, and add a pinch of nutmeg if you like a touch of warmth. This sauce will blanket your roll-ups in creamy goodness!

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of that dreamy parmesan sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Take each noodle, spread a generous couple of tablespoons of filling at one end, then roll it up snugly. Place each roll seam-side down in the dish—they’ll stay put and soak up more sauce this way.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Pour the remaining sauce over all the noodles, making sure every roll-up is happily smothered. Mix the panko with melted butter and sprinkle evenly on top, then add a final shower of mozzarella for maximum gooeyness. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly—the aroma at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Pull your Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes—they’ll set up and be easier to serve. Finish with a flourish of fresh parsley and, if you like, pass lemon wedges around the table so everyone can add a fresh zing right before digging in.

How to Serve Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley over your Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce not only adds that chef’s touch of color, but it also brings a fresh, herbal note that brightens the whole dish. A squeeze of lemon just before serving works magic, accentuating the crab’s sweetness and cutting through the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, keep things light and bright. Pair your roll-ups with a crisp green salad tossed in a citrusy vinaigrette or serve alongside roasted asparagus, sautéed broccolini, or green beans. Warm, crusty bread is never a bad idea for mopping up every last drop of that creamy parmesan sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping dinner, serve each roll-up in individual gratin dishes or small oven-safe bowls—everyone will get their own golden, bubbling portion. You could even arrange the roll-ups on a large platter for a family-style, centerpiece-worthy presentation. Mini versions make an impressive appetizer for gatherings, too—just slice cooked noodles in half and fill as usual.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce will keep beautifully in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 2 days. The flavors have a chance to mingle even more, making them just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze individual roll-ups or the entire unbaked casserole. Just assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual, adding a few extra minutes to compensate for the chill.

Reheating

To reheat, arrange roll-ups in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes). For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last few minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but oven reheating keeps the topping at its best.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Fresh lump crab gives the richest, sweetest flavor, but high-quality canned crab is a convenient and delicious alternative. Just drain it really well and give it a quick once-over for shells.

Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

Yes, cottage cheese blended until smooth is a good swap, or you can try mascarpone for an even richer filling. Keep in mind, ricotta has a mild flavor and lovely texture that really suits Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Easily! Just use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux in the sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to avoid watery lasagna?

Make sure to drain the crab meat thoroughly and pat it dry if needed. Also, cook your noodles until just al dente and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving so the filling can set.

Can I prepare Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the roll-ups (without baking), cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake as directed—it’s perfect for effortless entertaining.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering friends or family around the table and sharing a dish like Fresh Crab Lasagna Roll-Ups with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite to treasure and share!