Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

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Layers of rich, creamy béchamel sauce, succulent shrimp drenched in garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta sheets come together in this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna. This dish takes the essence of classic shrimp scampi—garlicky, buttery, and slightly tangy with a hint of lemon—and elevates it with the indulgence of a baked lasagna. Every bite delivers a combination of tender shrimp, silky cheese, and a golden, bubbly top that will have you coming back for more.

This lasagna is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a unique twist on a comforting classic. Whether served at a family dinner, a special gathering, or just to satisfy a craving for something extraordinary, this dish impresses with its rich flavors and creamy, cheesy texture. The fusion of garlic butter shrimp and smooth béchamel sauce creates a luxurious experience that feels both comforting and gourmet.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

• A seafood lover’s dream – This dish is packed with juicy, tender shrimp infused with buttery, garlicky goodness.
• Creamy and indulgent – The béchamel sauce combined with layers of gooey cheese makes for an ultra-rich texture.
• A unique take on lasagna – A delightful change from traditional meat-based lasagnas, offering a seafood twist.
• Restaurant-quality at home – Impress your guests with a meal that looks and tastes like fine dining.
• Balanced flavors – The garlic butter and lemon perfectly complement the mild sweetness of the shrimp and the creamy sauce.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is crucial. Here are the essential items you’ll need and why they matter:

Essential Tools and Equipment

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – Used for cooking the shrimp in garlic butter, ensuring even heat distribution for a perfect sear.
2. Medium Saucepan – Ideal for preparing the béchamel sauce without scorching.
3. Whisk – Helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
4. Lasagna Baking Dish (9×13 inches) – Provides enough space for layering the lasagna evenly.
5. Large Pot – Necessary for boiling lasagna noodles to the perfect texture.
6. Slotted Spoon – Useful for removing shrimp from the pan without excess liquid.
7. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Great for stirring sauces without scratching cookware.
8. Cheese Grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
9. Knife & Cutting Board – Essential for chopping garlic, parsley, and other ingredients.
10. Aluminum Foil – Helps cover the lasagna during baking to prevent over-browning.

Having these tools ready before starting makes the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

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Preparation Tips

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh, deveined shrimp work best for a juicy and flavorful filling. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Cook the pasta al dente – Since the lasagna will bake in the oven, slightly undercooking the noodles prevents them from becoming mushy.
• Layer strategically – Start with a thin layer of sauce to prevent sticking, and distribute the shrimp evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Make the sauce silky – Stir béchamel constantly over low heat to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
• Rest before slicing – Let the lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

These tips will help you create a flawless and delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for a smooth and efficient process. This lasagna combines buttery shrimp, a rich béchamel sauce, and layers of cheese to create a creamy, indulgent dish.

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)

For the Lasagna Layers:

• 9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked al dente)
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Now that you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to assemble this delicious lasagna.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Follow these steps to create a perfectly layered, creamy, and flavorful shrimp scampi lasagna.

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, but slightly undercook them to al dente.
3. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Once the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes), add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese and one beaten egg.
2. Stir until smooth and well blended. Set aside.

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Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
4. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
5. Add a layer of garlic butter shrimp evenly across the dish.
6. Spoon some béchamel sauce over the shrimp.
7. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of béchamel sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

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Step 6: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Now, your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is ready to enjoy!

Notes

• Use fresh shrimp whenever possible – Fresh shrimp enhances the flavor, but if using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
• Adjust spice levels – Red pepper flakes add a slight kick, but you can omit them for a milder taste.
• Béchamel thickness matters – The sauce should be smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it.
• Layering evenly – Spread ingredients uniformly for consistent flavor in every bite. Avoid overloading any single layer.
• Resting time is crucial – Letting the lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes after baking helps it hold its shape when slicing.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Boiling noodles too long – Slightly undercook the lasagna noodles since they’ll continue softening in the oven.
• Skipping the béchamel stirring – If you don’t stir constantly, the sauce can become lumpy or burn. Keep whisking!
• Too much liquid – Excess moisture from the shrimp or sauce can make the lasagna watery. Pat the shrimp dry before cooking and don’t overdo the sauce layers.
• Forgetting to cover while baking – Covering the dish with foil for most of the baking time prevents the top from burning before the layers are fully cooked.
• Cutting too soon – If you slice the lasagna right out of the oven, it may fall apart. Resting helps it set properly.

These tips will help ensure your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly layered!

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Pairing your lasagna with the right side dishes can elevate the meal, balancing its rich and creamy flavors with fresh, crisp, or tangy elements. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread

A classic side for any lasagna, garlic bread adds a crispy, buttery contrast to the creamy pasta layers. Serve it warm for the best experience.

2. Fresh Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted asparagus offers a simple yet elegant vegetable pairing that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

4. Lemon Butter Green Beans

The citrusy brightness of lemon butter green beans complements the garlic butter shrimp flavors while adding a light and nutritious side.

5. Caprese Salad

Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh and vibrant contrast to the creamy lasagna.

6. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

A quick and easy side dish, sautéed spinach in garlic and olive oil provides a healthy and slightly bitter contrast to the cheesy lasagna.

7. White Wine Pairing

A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the seafood flavors without overwhelming the dish.

8. Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar adds a refreshing, tangy bite that balances the lasagna’s creaminess.

These sides will complement your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna beautifully, making it a well-rounded meal.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures that your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna stays fresh and delicious for later enjoyment.

Refrigeration:

• Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• For best results, freeze before baking. Assemble the lasagna as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• From the fridge: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• From frozen: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until hot and bubbly. If already baked, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Microwave method: Reheat individual portions on a microwave-safe plate for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

The following values are approximate and depend on portion size and specific ingredient brands:

• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Fat: ~27g
• Saturated Fat: ~14g
• Cholesterol: ~180mg
• Sodium: ~700mg
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~5g

This lasagna is indulgent yet packed with protein from the shrimp, making it a satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.

2. Can I substitute the béchamel sauce with Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can replace the homemade béchamel with store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce for a richer, cheesier flavor.

3. What type of cheese works best for this lasagna?

Mozzarella provides the best melty texture, while Parmesan adds depth. Ricotta gives creaminess, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese if desired.

4. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

5. Is there a gluten-free version of this lasagna?

Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour in the béchamel sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

6. Can I add other seafood to this dish?

Definitely! Scallops, crab, or even chunks of lobster can be added for an extra seafood twist. Just ensure they’re cooked properly before layering.

7. How do I prevent my lasagna from being too watery?

Make sure to drain the shrimp well and pat them dry before cooking. Also, avoid adding too much sauce between layers to keep the lasagna from getting soggy.

8. What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results or use the microwave for a quicker option.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is the perfect blend of creamy, garlicky, and seafood-rich flavors that will impress any crowd. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, special occasion, or just treating yourself, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. With the right preparation, layering techniques, and serving ideas, you can create a decadent, comforting meal that stands out from traditional lasagna.

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