If you adore the rich flavors of shrimp scampi but also crave the comforting layers of a classic Italian lasagna, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe is made just for you. Combining tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, a velvety white sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese layered between perfectly cooked noodles, this dish delivers a vibrant, indulgent meal that’s as impressive as it is satisfying. It’s a fantastic twist on two beloved dishes, making every bite a celebration of buttery, garlicky goodness, bright lemony notes, and cheesy richness that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe plays an essential role, bringing together freshness, creaminess, and that irresistible savory punch. Don’t worry—these components are simple, easy to find, and combine effortlessly to build the layered magic that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star ingredient providing tender, juicy seafood flavor.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Added twice for richness—once for the shrimp scampi and once for the white sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that signature aromatic punch we all love in scampi.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the shrimp sauce and keeps it juicy.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: A bright touch that perfectly balances the butteriness.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Freshness and color to brighten things up.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every element.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the white sauce into luscious, creamy goodness.
- 4 cups milk: The base of the velvety white sauce layering the dish.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle warming spice that elevates the white sauce.
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked: Perfect carriers for every savory layer.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, providing moisture and texture.
- 1 egg: Binds the ricotta mixture so it holds beautifully when baked.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that irresistibly cheesy top layer.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake the lasagna to golden bubbly perfection right when you finish assembling. It’s always good to have the oven ready in advance to maintain the flow of cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté until it releases that intoxicating aroma. Toss in the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and just opaque—about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper, letting it all meld together for another minute. Then, remove from heat and set aside this star component full of buttery, garlicky goodness.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce
In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux—this is what thickens your sauce beautifully. Gradually whisk in the milk, simmering until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth and heavenly. Set this comforting sauce aside for layering.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, mixing until smooth. This mixture will add creaminess and help bind the layers, giving you that perfect lasagna texture once baked.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Now for the exciting part—assemble your lasagna in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a thin layer of white sauce to coat the bottom. Then lay down 4 lasagna noodles. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly across the noodles, then top with half of the shrimp scampi. Repeat this layering process once more—white sauce, noodles, ricotta, and shrimp scampi—building up those rich layers.
Step 6: Add the Final Cheese Layer and Bake
Finish by sprinkling a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese across the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and irresistible. Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to allow every layer to settle.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your lasagna right before serving. It adds a pop of color and a bright herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy layers.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed asparagus to keep the meal balanced and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve individual portions in small ramekins and broil them for an extra minute to get a golden crust on top. Or place a wedge on a warm platter garnished with lemon slices to highlight the citrus element in the shrimp scampi.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place any leftover lasagna in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for even longer, assemble the lasagna and wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. It can keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, cover leftovers with foil and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps maintain the luscious texture better.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve that perfect sautéed texture without excess moisture.
Is it okay to use no-boil lasagna noodles instead of cooked ones?
You can, but you might need to slightly increase the amount of sauce and baking time so the noodles soften properly and the lasagna layers meld well together.
Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative in the white sauce?
Yes, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can work nicely, though the flavor and creaminess might be a little different. Consider adding a bit more cheese for richness.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh parsley on hand?
Dried parsley works in a pinch, but fresh herbs definitely brighten the dish the most. You could also try fresh basil or chives for a slightly different but delicious herbal note.
How spicy is this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe?
This recipe is more about buttery, garlicky, and tangy flavors than heat, so it’s quite mild. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp if you want a little kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about combining the elegance of shrimp scampi with the comfort of lasagna, and this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe does just that perfectly. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or even a dinner party. Every bite is cozy yet bright, decadent yet fresh, and I genuinely believe you’ll fall in love with this indulgent twist. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with warm, garlicky aromas that invite everyone to the table!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna combines the rich flavors of classic shrimp scampi with creamy layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and a Parmesan white sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this decadent casserole offers a luxurious twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a comforting yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
White Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Lasagna Assembly
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Shrimp Scampi: In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the White Sauce: In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, mixing until smooth and well incorporated. This will add richness and help the cheese set during baking.
- Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the white sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the shrimp scampi. Repeat the layers with white sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and shrimp scampi. Finish with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and enjoy your rich and savory shrimp scampi lasagna!
Notes
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooked but not overcooked to keep it tender.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the scampi sauce.
- Allow the lasagna to rest before cutting so it holds together better.
- Substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the butter amount or use part-skim cheeses.
