If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich, garlicky flavors of shrimp scampi with the comforting layers of lasagna, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is your answer!
This seafood lasagna recipe is a show-stopping fusion of succulent shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and tender lasagna noodles, all baked to golden perfection.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests with something extraordinary.
Let’s dive into this indulgent, flavor-packed recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic butter shrimp and creamy cheese sauce creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors.
Comfort Food Meets Elegance: This dish is cozy like classic lasagna but elevated with succulent shrimp and a luxurious scampi-inspired sauce.
Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s adaptable to various dietary preferences with easy substitutions.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance for stress-free entertaining or meal planning.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi:
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
1/4 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Cheese Sauce:
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
For the Lasagna:
12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or pre-cooked)
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for layering and topping)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi
In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Remove shrimp and sauce from heat, stir in parsley, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add warmed milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
Stir in Parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Mix well.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place 3-4 lasagna noodles in a single layer.
Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the shrimp scampi (with some sauce).
Spoon 1/3 of the cheese sauce over the shrimp.
Repeat layers two more times, ending with a generous layer of cheese sauce.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp yield the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture in the final dish.
No-Boil Noodles: If using no-boil noodles, ensure there’s enough sauce to cover them for proper cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce before assembling and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops, crab, or a mix of seafood for a twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie-packed lasagna.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative in the cheese sauce.
Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for heat.
Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy lasagna.
Bread: Serve with garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls to soak up the sauce.
Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli adds a healthy, colorful touch.
Beverage: Pair with a chilled sparkling water with lemon or a light, refreshing iced tea.
Make-Ahead, Storing, and Freezing Instructions
Make-Ahead
Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time if cold.
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Freezing
Unbaked: Assemble the lasagna, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Baked: Freeze cooled leftovers in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
Q. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them to the scampi sauce at the end of cooking to avoid overcooking. Fresh or raw shrimp yield the best texture.
Q. Can I make this lasagna without cream?
Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with additional milk or half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Q. How do I prevent soggy lasagna?
Ensure the cheese sauce is thick, don’t oversauce the layers, and let the lasagna rest before cutting to set the layers.
Q. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles work well as long as they’re fully covered with sauce to soften during baking.
Q. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for even warming, or use a microwave for quick reheating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food with a seafood twist, blending the bold flavors of shrimp scampi with the cheesy, layered perfection of lasagna.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to something special, this dish is sure to impress.
With its creamy texture, garlicky goodness, and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy the delicious results!
Read More:- San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Ingredients
- Shrimp Scampi: 1 lb shrimp 4 tbsp butter, 4 cloves garlic, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup chicken broth, 2 tbsp lemon juice, salt, pepper, parsley
- Cheese Sauce: 4 tbsp butter 4 tbsp flour, 3 cups milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup Parmesan, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, salt, pepper, nutmeg
- Lasagna: 12 lasagna noodles 2 cups ricotta, 1 egg, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, parsley
Instructions
- Cook shrimp scampi with butter, garlic, and seasonings. Set aside.
- Make cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, cream, and cheeses.
- Mix ricotta with egg and mozzarella.
- Layer noodles, ricotta, shrimp, and cheese sauce in a 9x13-inch dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes. Rest and garnish before serving.
