Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna: A Decadent Seafood Delight
Seafood lovers, get ready for an irresistible dish that combines the luxurious flavors of shrimp scampi with the comfort of a cheesy, baked lasagna. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a creamy, indulgent recipe featuring succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, layers of soft lasagna pasta, and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Whether you’re making a special dinner for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a seafood twist on classic lasagna, this recipe will exceed all expectations. Let’s dive into this heavenly combination of shrimp, cheese, and garlic butter sauce that’s baked to perfection.
Introduction
Lasagna is one of the most beloved comfort foods, but this seafood-infused version takes it to a whole new level. Instead of the traditional beef or ricotta filling, we’re layering tender shrimp cooked in garlic butter between sheets of perfectly cooked lasagna noodles and generous amounts of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
This recipe brings the essence of classic shrimp scampi—garlic, butter, and parmesan—into a baked pasta dish that is both rich and satisfying. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, with simple ingredients that come together beautifully for a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to elevate your pasta game, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is the perfect dish to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
To prepare this incredibly rich and cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna, you’ll need the following:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 sheets of pre-cooked lasagna
- 500g of peeled and deveined shrimp
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 100g butter
- 200g grated mozzarella
- 100g grated parmesan
For the Creamy Sauce (Optional but Recommended):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup white wine (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles
If your lasagna sheets are not pre-cooked, boil them in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add olive oil, heavy cream, white wine (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to blend. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce at the bottom.
Layer as follows:
- Three lasagna sheets
- A portion of the garlic butter shrimp
- A sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan cheese
- A drizzle of the creamy sauce
Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish & Serve
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have a sweeter flavor and better texture than frozen ones. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Cook Lasagna Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the oven, so undercook it slightly before baking.
- Let the Lasagna Rest Before Slicing: This allows the layers to set properly, making slicing easier.
- Enhance the Garlic Butter Flavor: Add a little extra garlic powder or minced garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Try Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and parmesan are classic, you can also mix in gruyère or fontina for a more complex flavor.
Cooking Tips
To perfect your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna, try these additional tricks:
- Golden, Crispy Topping: Sprinkle a mix of parmesan and breadcrumbs on top for a crispy, golden crust.
- Add More Seafood: For a luxurious touch, add crab meat, scallops, or lobster.
- Make it Spicy: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use Homemade Pasta Sheets: If you have time, homemade pasta adds a special touch to this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts
Nutritional Information
Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 520
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick fix.
- Freeze: Freeze lasagna slices individually for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have lasagna sheets, try using penne or rigatoni in a casserole-style dish.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
You can substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood.
Can I make this lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is the ultimate seafood comfort food. With layers of cheesy goodness, rich garlic butter shrimp, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that will make any dinner extra special. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home! 🍤🧄🍝