Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Let me tell you about the most indulgent, flavor-packed lasagna I have ever made. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy, garlicky layers wrap themselves around juicy shrimp, all tucked between perfectly cooked pasta sheets and bubbling cheese. I created this recipe when I was craving something cozy but elevated, a dish that could double as comfort food and a showstopper. And let me tell you—it delivered.
The first bite is all it takes to fall in love. The garlic butter hits you instantly, rich and savory, while the shrimp add a delicate sweetness that balances everything out. I infused the béchamel with a touch of lemon zest and parmesan for a bright finish, giving the lasagna a lightness that makes it dangerously easy to go back for seconds. And thirds.
This lasagna has become one of my go-to dishes for both dinner parties and lazy Sundays. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a glass of white wine, and it never fails to impress. If you’re a fan of shrimp scampi or creamy baked pasta, this will soon be your new favorite. You might also like my Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach and the rich Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
This lasagna is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Imagine layers of pasta, drenched in a garlic butter sauce, stacked with tender shrimp and enveloped in a velvety cheese béchamel. Every component complements the next, resulting in a luxurious dish with just the right amount of garlic, cream, and seafood essence.
Unlike a traditional red-sauce lasagna, this version is elegant and unexpected. It transforms everyday ingredients into something sophisticated. The garlic butter adds an irresistible richness, while the lemon and herbs lift everything to a higher note. And best of all? It’s surprisingly easy to make, whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or an intimate gathering.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook just until they turn pink. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Béchamel Sauce
In the same skillet, add more butter and a bit of flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in milk, followed by heavy cream, keeping the mixture smooth. Stir in minced garlic, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, and a touch of nutmeg. Let it simmer until thickened.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the béchamel sauce. Lay down cooked lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of shrimp, a spoonful of sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of sauce and cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and broil for an additional 5-7 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
You can easily tailor this lasagna to your preferences. Swap the shrimp for scallops or a white fish for a different seafood twist. Want a bit more green? Add a layer of sautéed spinach or baby kale between the noodles. For those who prefer a little spice, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes into the béchamel.
If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and a gluten-free flour blend in your sauce. You can also lighten the dish by replacing some of the heavy cream with whole milk or using low-fat cheese blends. This lasagna is surprisingly versatile, and a few tweaks can make it your own signature comfort dish.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna shines as the centerpiece of any dinner. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the sauce. A side of garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette helps mop up every last bit of that creamy goodness. For a refreshing touch, pair it with chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. If you’re entertaining, consider starting the meal with a simple shrimp cocktail or light tomato bruschetta.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover the lasagna with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them only at the layering stage. Since they’re already cooked, avoid reheating in the skillet to prevent them from turning rubbery.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella and parmesan are ideal. Mozzarella for the gooey melt, and parmesan for its salty, umami depth. Ricotta can be added for extra creaminess.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate it up to a day in advance. Bake it just before serving for the freshest result.
How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Make sure your shrimp are well-drained and pat them dry before cooking. Also, simmer the béchamel until it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese alternatives. Opt for unsweetened and unflavored plant-based versions for the best results.
Related Recipe You’ll Like
If you’re head over heels for this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna, then you won’t want to miss my other creamy, cozy creations. The Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach is another seafood-forward dish that combines comforting pasta with a rich, velvety sauce. For something a bit different but just as indulgent, try the Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta packed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. You may also fall in love with the layered comfort of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti, which has a set-it-and-forget-it charm while still being irresistibly creamy.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
Don’t let this delicious lasagna be a one-time treat! Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it whenever the craving hits. Just tap the “Pin it” button on the top of this post. You can also share it on Facebook or email it to a friend who needs a little dinner inspiration. Every share helps others discover the magic of garlic butter, tender shrimp, and melty cheese all wrapped in lasagna noodles. Trust me, once they taste it, they’ll be thanking you!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is an elegant twist on classic lasagna, featuring tender shrimp enveloped in layers of garlic butter, creamy cheese béchamel, and perfectly cooked pasta. This seafood lasagna is packed with rich flavors from sautéed garlic, melted mozzarella, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese. Ideal for special occasions or cozy evenings, this creamy shrimp lasagna is a crowd-pleasing recipe you'll return to again and again. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or simply looking to try something unique, this dish brings together the comfort of lasagna with the fresh zest of shrimp scampi.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for shrimp)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 more tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add garlic, lemon zest, nutmeg, and parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, shrimp, mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and broil for 5-7 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure they are fully thawed and dried before cooking.
- For added color and flavor, include chopped parsley or fresh basil as garnish.
- The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon before assembling the lasagna.
- To make it ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
