If you adore the rich flavors of classic shrimp scampi and the comforting layers of lasagna, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Combining tender, garlicky shrimp bathed in buttery sauce with luscious ricotta, creamy white sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish delivers a symphony of textures and tastes that feels both elegant and homey. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this lasagna is a guaranteed showstopper that brings a fresh twist to Italian seafood favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list intimidate you: these ingredients are straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the depth and harmony of flavors in the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe. From the garlicky shrimp to the smooth white sauce, every component adds a special touch to make this dish unforgettable.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and perfectly sized for layering.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Used twice — for sautéing garlic and shrimp and also for the white sauce, delivering rich, silky texture.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that bold, aromatic base that defines shrimp scampi.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to the shrimp mixture.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: A bright pop of acidity that balances the buttery richness.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For freshness and color, both in the layers and as garnish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with butter for the perfect roux in the creamy white sauce.
- 4 cups milk: Creates the luscious base of the white sauce that binds the layers together.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty notes to the sauce for irresistible flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch to enhance the white sauce with warm undertones.
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked: The structural backbone of this layered seafood delight.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it balances the tang and spice.
- 1 egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for smooth layering.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that golden, bubbling finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A final bright flourish that elevates presentation and flavor.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Warming up the oven ahead of time is key for perfect baking once your lasagna is assembled.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi
In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and golden, releasing mouthwatering aromas. Add the peeled shrimp and cook until they turn a beautiful pink and are just opaque, which usually takes a few minutes. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and fresh parsley, then season everything generously with salt and pepper. This step layers vibrant seafood flavors that’ll shine through every bite of your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce
Start by melting another 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux, cooking it briefly to get rid of any raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a silky smooth sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy white sauce will add a luscious, velvety texture that holds your layers together perfectly.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
Combine the ricotta cheese with one egg in a bowl, mixing until smooth and well blended. This mix adds a rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the garlicky shrimp and sharp cheese.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Now for the fun part. Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, then dollop some ricotta mixture evenly over them followed by a generous spoonful of the shrimp scampi. Repeat these layers until your ingredients are used up, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining white sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously on top to create that golden, bubbly crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden brown top that signals the cheeses have melted into a perfect crust, while the layers beneath have melded harmoniously together.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Allow the lasagna to cool slightly before cutting into it, so the layers hold firm. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra freshness that complements the rich flavors.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add lemon zest or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added pop of brightness and shine. These little touches make the dish feel even more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe with vibrant green salads, such as arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or garlic-roasted vegetables. A crusty artisan bread is great for sopping up any extra sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this lasagna on a rustic wooden board with lemon wedges on the side. Individual portions can be plated with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil and a sprig of fresh parsley to impress every guest at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the layers moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Adding a little splash of milk or broth before reheating helps retain the creamy texture and keeps the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture that could make the lasagna watery.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut or almond milk for the sauce, along with dairy-free cheeses for a flavorful twist.
Can I prepare the whole dish ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, then bake it when you’re ready — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works well as a substitute, though the texture is slightly different. You can also blend cottage cheese to make it smoother, closer to ricotta.
How can I tell when the lasagna is fully cooked?
Look for bubbling sauce around the edges and a golden-brown cheese crust on top, and make sure the internal temperature reaches about 165°F for safe consumption.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe is a fabulous way to combine the best of two beloved dishes into one unforgettable meal. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just craving something a bit different, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every hearty bite. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to make it again and again — perfect for gatherings or treating yourself to a decadent dinner at home.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and seafood indulgence. Succulent shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce is layered with creamy ricotta, a rich Parmesan white sauce, and tender lasagna noodles, all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for seafood lovers looking for a comforting yet elegant pasta dish.
Ingredients
Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
White Sauce (Béchamel)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled lasagna.
- Prepare the Shrimp Scampi: In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once combined and set aside.
- Make the White Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and smoothens. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat once well combined and creamy.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and egg together until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Lay down a layer of cooked lasagna noodles. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by an even layer of the shrimp scampi. Repeat the layering process until ingredients are used up, finishing with a final layer of noodles and white sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake the Lasagna: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the lasagna cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully cooked but not overdone to maintain tenderness.
- Cook lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the shrimp scampi.
- The white sauce can be made richer by substituting part of the milk with heavy cream if desired.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking; add extra baking time if you bake it cold.
- For a lower sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt.
