If you’re craving an irresistible twist on a classic comfort dish, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is about to become your new obsession. Imagine layers of tender pasta overlapped with succulent shrimp, all nestled into a luscious, garlicky lemon-butter sauce and plenty of gooey cheese. This dreamy creation brings together the best of Italian-American flavors and the seaside charm of shrimp scampi, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or any night you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Your kitchen is just one baked casserole away from wow-worthy flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is just how straightforward the ingredient list is—a handful of high-quality staples transform into a dish bursting with fresh, bright, and savory flavors. Each component plays an important role in creating layers of texture, creaminess, or that signature zing.
- Lasagna noodles: These form the hearty backbone, soaking up the lemony garlic sauce without getting mushy.
- Large shrimp: Opt for plump, peeled, and deveined shrimp for irresistible seafood flavor in every bite.
- Butter: The foundation of the scampi sauce, giving richness and a decadent mouthfeel.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the entire dish with classic Italian fragrance.
- Olive oil: Just a touch helps prevent the butter from browning too quickly.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of gentle heat that brightens up the sauce.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth: Deglazes the pan for layers of savory flavor; pick wine for extra depth or broth for family-friendly comfort.
- Lemon juice: Brings zing and freshness that sings in every forkful.
- Lemon zest: Adds a punch of citrusy aroma that elevates the scampi sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley: For color and that essential pop of herbal brightness.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy, subtle, and the perfect partner to shrimp and lemon.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully between every noodle layer, giving the lasagna its signature stretch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp nutty flavor, both inside and on top for an irresistible crust.
- Egg: Binds the ricotta filling so it bakes up delightfully creamy.
- Salt and pepper: To balance and bring out all the other flavors.
- Extra Parmesan and parsley: The finishing touch for irresistible color and cheesy appeal.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain them well, then lay the noodles flat on a sheet of parchment or a lightly greased baking sheet. This prevents the noodles from sticking together and keeps assembly a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Build Flavor
Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and combined, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Give it just 30 seconds—just enough for the garlic to become fragrant, but not brown. Add the shrimp, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook! Scoop out the shrimp and set them aside on a plate to rest while you move on to the next layer of flavor.
Step 3: Deglaze and Make the Lemony Scampi Sauce
With those savory bits still in the skillet, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits on the bottom—that’s flavor gold. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid is slightly reduced and infused with tangy richness. Finish the sauce by stirring in the fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley. This is what transforms the lasagna from comforting to completely crave-worthy.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper. Whisk until everything is smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture gives the lasagna those unmistakable cheesy layers without weighing it down.
Step 5: Assemble the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish. Spoon a little of the lemon-garlic scampi sauce on the bottom to keep things moist. Lay down 3 noodles, spread on half of the ricotta mixture, top with half of the shrimp, and sprinkle on some mozzarella. Repeat the layers—noodles, ricotta, shrimp, mozzarella—then finish with the last 3 noodles, the remaining sauce, and finally, the rest of the Parmesan for that classic lasagna top.
Step 6: Bake and Rest
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to gently meld everything together, then uncover and bake 10 minutes more until gloriously bubbly and golden on top. Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps the layers neat and lets the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, don’t forget an extra flurry of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped parsley. Both add that final flourish of color and cheesiness, making every slice feel special (and look restaurant-worthy!). A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bonus spark of flavor.
Side Dishes
Since Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is already packed with flavor, keep your sides light and vibrant. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette, sautéed broccolini, or simply some roasted asparagus all make delightful companions. And of course, a warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect to soak up any extra sauce from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For family style, serve directly from the baking dish at the center of the table with a big, inviting spoon. For a more elegant touch, cut the lasagna into neat squares, stack them on individual plates, and top each with a few extra shrimp and a twist of lemon. You can also bake the lasagna in mini ramekins or individual au gratin dishes for a stunning dinner party presentation—everyone loves their own little portion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate slices in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day slices incredibly satisfying!
Freezing
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole (unbaked or baked) dish tightly in a double layer of foil, or cut into individual portions and freeze them in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and bake or reheat as directed.
Reheating
For best results, reheat lasagna portions in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. A sprinkle of fresh cheese and parsley before serving revives that just-baked magic. The microwave works in a pinch, but be sure to cover and heat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna?
Absolutely! Just thaw your shrimp completely and pat them very dry before sautéing so you get a nice sear and avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?
If you prefer to cook without alcohol, chicken or vegetable broth provides a deliciously savory base for the sauce. The key is to use a flavorful liquid that adds depth to the scampi layer.
Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day ahead and refrigerate it, covered tightly. Just allow a few extra minutes of baking time when it’s cold from the fridge.
What size baking dish works best?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch square baking dish is ideal for the amounts listed in this recipe. For a crowd, double the recipe and use a classic 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles and follow the rest of the recipe as written for a fabulously gluten-friendly take on this seafood comfort classic.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a recipe that guarantees rave reviews and second helpings, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is the one. Each bite blends the best of creamy, zesty, and ocean-bright flavors in the most comforting format imaginable. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your most-requested dish—give it a try, and prepare to fall in love!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent twist on traditional lasagna with this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna recipe. Layers of tender shrimp, creamy ricotta, and zesty lemon-garlic sauce nestled between lasagna noodles, all baked to perfection with gooey cheeses.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
- 9 lasagna noodles
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Cook noodles until al dente, drain, and lay flat.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in butter and oil. Cook shrimp, then set aside. Deglaze with wine, lemon juice, zest, and parsley.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Mix ricotta, egg, ¼ cup Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: Layer noodles, ricotta, shrimp, and mozzarella. Repeat. Top with remaining noodles, sauce, and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover and bake, then uncover and bake until golden. Let rest before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir ¼ cup heavy cream into the garlic butter sauce.
- You can chop the shrimp for smaller pieces.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
