A delectable twist on the classic Italian favorite, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna combines the comforting layers of lasagna with the rich flavors of shrimp scampi. It’s a surprisingly easy dish that will impress your family and friends, delivering a burst of savory goodness in every bite. Creamy ricotta, succulent shrimp, and a luscious white sauce come together to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Ingredients:
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Choose shrimp that are uniformly sized for even cooking. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted). Butter adds richness and helps to create the flavorful base for the scampi.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic is key to delivering that pungent, aromatic garlic flavor.
- ½ cup chicken broth. Chicken broth adds moisture and depth of flavor to the scampi sauce. You can use low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter and garlic.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the scampi.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Season generously to enhance the flavors of the shrimp and other ingredients.
For the White Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted). Butter is essential for creating a smooth and creamy white sauce, also known as béchamel.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour. Flour acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.
- 4 cups milk. Whole milk will create a richer sauce, but you can use 2% or skim milk if desired.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and umami-rich flavor to the white sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg. A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the flavors of the cheese and milk.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Season the white sauce to your liking, adjusting the salt and pepper as needed.
For Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package directions. Use oven-ready lasagna noodles if you’d like to save on cooking time.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese. Whole milk ricotta cheese will provide the creamiest texture, but you can use part-skim ricotta if you prefer.
- 1 egg. The egg helps to bind the ricotta cheese mixture together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella cheese adds a melty, stretchy texture and a mild, milky flavor to the lasagna.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish). Fresh parsley adds a final touch of color and freshness to the finished lasagna. Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the lasagna cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Cook the roux for a minute or two to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to further thicken the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly if needed. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the shrimp scampi. Drizzle some of the scampi sauce over the shrimp. Repeat the layers: white sauce, 3 lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining shrimp scampi, and more scampi sauce. Top with another layer of 3 lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining white sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to slice.
COOKING Rating Easy to Medium
Why you will love this recipe
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a delightful fusion of classic Italian comfort and seafood indulgence. You’ll love this recipe because:
- Unique Flavor Combination: It’s a surprising and delicious twist on traditional lasagna, offering a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive presentation, this lasagna is relatively easy to assemble, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of familiar lasagna components with the added touch of shrimp scampi makes it a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add vegetables, use different cheeses, or adjust the level of spice.
- Impressive Presentation: The layers of cheesy goodness, vibrant shrimp, and golden-brown topping make this lasagna a stunning dish to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the lasagna with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the lasagna.
- A glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the shrimp and garlic.
- For a more substantial meal, serve with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles: Cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Pat the shrimp dry: This will help them brown nicely in the skillet.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp: Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and good-quality shrimp will make a big difference in the final flavor of the lasagna.
- Let the lasagna rest before serving: This will allow it to set and make it easier to slice.
- Make ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day ahead and bake it just before serving. This is a great way to save time when entertaining.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp scampi for a touch of heat.
- Vegetable Additions: Consider adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 450 kcal per serving (estimated, may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes) Protein: Approximately 30 grams per serving (estimated) Sodium: Varies widely based on broth and cheese used; aim for low-sodium options to control levels
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of creamy ricotta, succulent shrimp, and luscious white sauce, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the satisfaction of creating a truly memorable meal.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them until they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet. This will help them brown nicely and prevent them from steaming.
Q2: Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Simply omit the shrimp and add some vegetables of your choice. Some good options include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. You can also add a layer of pesto or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
Q3: Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles?
A: Yes, you can use oven-ready lasagna noodles to save time. Just make sure to layer them directly into the dish without pre-cooking. The sauce will hydrate the noodles during baking. Be sure to use plenty of sauce to ensure that the noodles cook properly and don’t dry out.
Q4: Can I freeze this lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze this lasagna either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the lasagna according to the recipe instructions, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the lasagna in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let the lasagna cool completely, cut it into individual portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the portion in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What can I do to prevent the lasagna from becoming watery?
A: Several factors can contribute to watery lasagna. To prevent this, make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente, not overcooked. Also, avoid adding too much liquid to the ricotta mixture. If using frozen spinach or other vegetables, squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding them to the lasagna. Letting the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking will also help it to set and prevent it from becoming watery.
